CVE-2024-4389 in Slider & Popup Builder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/14/2024
The Slider and Carousel slider by Depicter plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the uploadFile function in all versions up to, and including, 3.1.1. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor access or higher, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/15/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-4389 affects the Slider and Carousel slider plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 3.1.1. This issue resides within the uploadFile function where insufficient validation mechanisms fail to properly verify file types during the upload process. The flaw represents a critical security weakness that significantly undermines the integrity of WordPress installations using this plugin. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows authenticated attackers who possess contributor-level access or higher to bypass normal security restrictions and upload malicious files to the server. This represents a clear violation of the principle of least privilege and demonstrates how plugin developers can inadvertently create pathways for attackers to escalate their privileges within a compromised system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of proper file type validation within the uploadFile function. When users upload files through the plugin interface, the system fails to perform adequate checks on file extensions, MIME types, or file content signatures that would normally prevent the upload of potentially dangerous file formats. This validation gap creates an attack surface where malicious files such as php scripts, aspx files, or other executable content can be uploaded without detection. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which specifically addresses the insecure upload of code or files, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to serious security consequences. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious files with legitimate-looking extensions but containing malicious code, thereby circumventing standard security controls that would normally prevent such uploads.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables authenticated attackers to achieve remote code execution capabilities on the compromised WordPress server. Once an attacker successfully uploads a malicious file, they can potentially execute arbitrary code with the privileges of the web server process, which typically runs with elevated permissions on the hosting environment. This compromise can lead to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, or the establishment of persistent backdoors within the network. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because contributor-level access is sufficient to exploit this vulnerability, meaning that attackers who have gained access to a low-privilege user account can escalate their privileges without requiring administrative credentials. This vulnerability can be exploited in conjunction with other attack techniques, potentially allowing attackers to move laterally within the network infrastructure and compromise additional systems. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution as attackers can use the uploaded files to establish persistent access, modify website content, or redirect traffic to malicious destinations.
Organizations should immediately implement multiple layers of defense to protect against exploitation of this vulnerability. The primary mitigation strategy involves updating to the latest version of the Slider and Carousel slider plugin where the file validation issues have been addressed. System administrators should also implement additional security controls including restricting file upload capabilities to only essential file types, implementing strict file content verification mechanisms, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious file upload attempts. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file upload activities and potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of regular security audits and penetration testing to identify similar issues in other plugins and themes. Organizations should follow ATT&CK framework guidance for mitigating privilege escalation attacks and ensure that user access controls are properly enforced. Additionally, implementing proper file integrity monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify unauthorized file uploads that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security training for administrators and developers on secure coding practices, particularly around input validation and file handling, is essential to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in future implementations.