CVE-2024-49607 in WP Dropbox Dropins Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/20/2024
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in redhopit WP Dropbox Dropins wp-dropbox-dropins allows Upload a Web Shell to a Web Server.This issue affects WP Dropbox Dropins: from n/a through <= 1.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/06/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2024-49607 represents a critical security flaw in the redhopit WP Dropbox Dropins plugin for WordPress systems. This issue manifests as an unrestricted file upload vulnerability that permits malicious actors to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload files with dangerous extensions directly to the web server. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of the plugin up to and including version 1.0, leaving installations within this range exposed to potential compromise. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the file upload functionality, creating an attack vector that allows arbitrary code execution through web shell deployment.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes unrestricted upload of files with dangerous type, a well-documented weakness in web applications. The vulnerability operates by allowing attackers to upload malicious files without proper validation of file extensions, MIME types, or content. This creates an environment where attackers can upload web shells, malware, or other malicious executables that can be executed within the web server context. The impact is particularly severe because the plugin's functionality involves Dropbox integration, which typically requires elevated permissions and access to server resources, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for the entire WordPress installation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the compromised system. Once a web shell is successfully uploaded, attackers can maintain long-term presence on the server, escalate privileges, and potentially move laterally within the network infrastructure. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1190, which covers exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1059, which involves executing commands through various means including web shells. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that WordPress plugins often have access to sensitive system resources and user data, making successful exploitation a significant threat to overall system security.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate plugin updates to versions that address the unrestricted upload issue, implementing strict file validation mechanisms that check both file extensions and content types, and deploying web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious upload attempts. Organizations should also implement proper access controls and privilege separation to limit the damage potential from successful exploitation. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and components. The remediation process must include thorough monitoring of upload directories and implementing automated scanning systems to detect malicious file uploads. Given the nature of this vulnerability, it is essential to maintain up-to-date security patches and to educate administrators about the risks associated with plugin vulnerabilities that can lead to complete system compromise.