CVE-2024-44015 in Users Control Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/05/2024
Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') vulnerability in istmoplugins Users Control users-control allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Users Control: from n/a through <= 1.0.16.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2026
The CVE-2024-44015 vulnerability represents a critical path traversal flaw within the istmoplugins Users Control users-control component, specifically impacting versions through 1.0.16. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-22 category, which defines improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory as a fundamental security weakness. The flaw manifests in the way the plugin processes user input when handling file operations, creating an opportunity for attackers to manipulate file paths and access unauthorized resources. The vulnerability exists within the users-control module of the istmoplugins suite, which is designed to manage user access and control within WordPress environments.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's file handling mechanisms. When users interact with the plugin's functionality, particularly in areas that involve file operations or user management, the system fails to properly restrict or validate the paths that can be accessed. This allows an attacker to craft malicious input that can traverse directory structures beyond the intended restricted paths. The vulnerability specifically enables PHP Local File Inclusion attacks, where an attacker can manipulate the file inclusion process to execute arbitrary PHP code or access sensitive files on the server. The flaw essentially allows an attacker to bypass normal access controls and potentially read or execute files that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file access, as it creates a potential entry point for more sophisticated attacks within the WordPress environment. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could gain access to sensitive configuration files, user credentials, or other critical system information stored on the server. The implications are particularly severe because the vulnerability affects the core user management functionality of the plugin, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to user accounts. This type of vulnerability can be leveraged as a stepping stone for further attacks within the compromised system, making it a significant concern for WordPress administrators who rely on this plugin for user control and management.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-44015 should prioritize immediate patching of the affected plugin versions, as the vulnerability has been identified and addressed in newer releases. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and sanitization measures to prevent path traversal attacks, including the use of whitelisting approaches for file operations and proper path normalization. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for PHP execution and T1566 for malicious file inclusion techniques, highlighting the need for defensive measures that monitor and restrict file access patterns. Additionally, implementing proper file permissions, using secure coding practices, and maintaining up-to-date security monitoring tools can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other components of the WordPress ecosystem, as path traversal vulnerabilities are commonly found in web applications and represent a persistent threat vector in cybersecurity operations.