CVE-2024-47649 in Iconize Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/16/2024
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in THATplugin Iconize iconize.This issue affects Iconize: from n/a through <= 1.2.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/05/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2024-47649 represents an unrestricted file upload flaw in the Iconize plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting versions through 1.2.4. This type of vulnerability falls under the category of insecure file handling and is classified as CWE-434, which describes the improper restriction of uploads to a restricted directory. The issue stems from the plugin's failure to adequately validate file types during the upload process, allowing malicious actors to bypass security measures and upload potentially harmful files to the target system. The vulnerability exists within the Iconize plugin's file upload functionality, which is designed to handle icon and image files but lacks proper sanitization and validation mechanisms.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability enables attackers to upload files with dangerous extensions that could execute code on the target server. When users upload files through the plugin interface, the system does not properly check the file content or extension against a whitelist of allowed types. This weakness creates an opportunity for attackers to upload malicious files such as php, aspx, or other script files that can be executed on the web server. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows for arbitrary code execution, which can lead to complete compromise of the affected WordPress installation. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1505.003 - Server Software Component, as it exploits a weakness in the web application's file handling component.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-47649 is severe and can result in complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor access. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can upload a web shell or other malicious payloads that provide remote code execution capabilities. This allows for unauthorized access to the server, potential lateral movement within the network, and the ability to establish persistent access to the compromised system. The vulnerability affects not just individual websites but can also impact the broader network infrastructure if the compromised system serves as a foothold for further attacks. Organizations using affected versions of the Iconize plugin face significant risk of data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability can be exploited through various attack vectors including social engineering to convince users to upload malicious files or direct exploitation of the plugin's upload functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-47649 should focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates and comprehensive security hardening measures. The primary and most effective mitigation is to upgrade to a patched version of the Iconize plugin where available, as this addresses the core validation and sanitization issues. System administrators should implement strict file type validation by configuring the web server to reject uploads of dangerous file extensions and by implementing content-based file type checking rather than relying solely on extension validation. Additional protective measures include restricting file upload permissions, implementing proper file storage directories that are not directly accessible via web requests, and conducting regular security audits of installed plugins and themes. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious upload attempts, while monitoring systems should be configured to alert on unusual file upload activities. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for file upload functionality and regularly review and test their security configurations to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced in the future. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure file handling practices in web applications.