CVE-2024-43140 in Ultimate Bootstrap Elements for Elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/13/2024
Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') vulnerability in G5Theme Ultimate Bootstrap Elements for Elementor allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Ultimate Bootstrap Elements for Elementor: from n/a through 1.4.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-43140 represents a critical path traversal flaw within the G5Theme Ultimate Bootstrap Elements for Elementor plugin, which operates under the CWE-22 category of improper limitation of pathname to restricted directory. This weakness enables attackers to manipulate file paths and access restricted directories through malicious input parameters. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of the plugin ranging from an unspecified initial version through 1.4.4, creating a substantial attack surface for malicious actors targeting WordPress installations that utilize this elementor addon. The flaw allows for PHP local file inclusion attacks, which can lead to arbitrary code execution and complete system compromise.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file handling mechanisms. When users interact with the plugin's functionality, particularly through dynamic content generation or file processing features, the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied path parameters. This allows attackers to inject malicious path sequences such as directory traversal payloads that bypass normal access controls. The vulnerability leverages the inherent trust in local file operations within PHP environments, where legitimate file inclusion mechanisms can be abused to access system files, configuration data, or other sensitive resources that should remain protected from unauthorized access. The attack vector typically involves manipulating URL parameters or form inputs that are subsequently processed as file paths within the plugin's codebase.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exposure, as it provides attackers with the capability to escalate privileges and execute arbitrary code on affected systems. Successful exploitation can result in complete compromise of WordPress installations, enabling attackers to install backdoors, exfiltrate sensitive data, modify website content, or establish persistent access to the compromised environment. The vulnerability's presence in the elementor integration context amplifies its impact since elementor plugins often have elevated permissions and access to website functionality, making them attractive targets for attackers seeking to gain deeper system access. Organizations running affected versions face significant risk of data breaches, website defacement, and potential use as launching points for broader network attacks, particularly in environments where multiple WordPress sites share common infrastructure or where the compromised site serves as a gateway to other systems.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to upgrade to patched versions of the Ultimate Bootstrap Elements for Elementor plugin, as no reliable workarounds exist for the underlying path traversal flaw. System administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring for suspicious file access patterns and unauthorized file inclusion attempts that may indicate exploitation attempts. Network-level defenses including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to block known malicious patterns associated with directory traversal attacks. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their WordPress installations to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins or themes that may share similar implementation flaws. The remediation process must include not only updating the specific plugin but also implementing proper input validation controls and access restriction policies that align with security best practices outlined in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be maintained to prevent similar issues from emerging in other components of the web application stack.