CVE-2024-50484 in Multi Purpose Mail Form Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/29/2024
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in Lindeni Mahlalela Multi Purpose Mail Form multi-purpose-mail-form allows Upload a Web Shell to a Web Server.This issue affects Multi Purpose Mail Form: from n/a through <= 1.0.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-50484 represents a critical security flaw in the Multi Purpose Mail Form plugin developed by Lindeni Mahlalela. This issue manifests as an unrestricted file upload vulnerability that permits malicious actors to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload web shells to the target web server. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of the plugin ranging from the initial release through version 1.0.2, indicating that the flaw has existed for some time without proper mitigation. The security implications are severe as this vulnerability directly enables remote code execution capabilities on the affected server.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434, which describes the weakness of unrestricted upload of file with dangerous type. This classification specifically addresses scenarios where applications fail to properly validate file types during upload processes, allowing users to upload executable files that can be executed on the server. The flaw operates by permitting file uploads without adequate content type checking or file extension validation, creating an attack surface where malicious files can be seamlessly integrated into the web server's file system. The vulnerability essentially removes any restrictions on what types of files can be uploaded, particularly those that could execute code or provide unauthorized access to the system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is devastating for any organization utilizing the affected plugin. Once a web shell is successfully uploaded, attackers gain persistent access to the compromised server, enabling them to execute arbitrary commands, steal sensitive data, modify website content, or use the server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability creates a backdoor that can be exploited repeatedly, making it particularly dangerous for long-term compromise. From an attack perspective, this represents a high-value target for threat actors as it provides direct server access without requiring additional exploitation techniques. The vulnerability also violates fundamental security principles of input validation and access control, creating a persistent threat that can be leveraged for data exfiltration, system reconnaissance, and lateral movement within compromised networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-50484 must focus on immediate remediation and long-term security hardening. The primary solution involves upgrading to a patched version of the Multi Purpose Mail Form plugin where the file upload restrictions have been properly implemented. Organizations should also implement additional protective measures including restricting file upload directories, implementing strict file type validation, using random file naming conventions, and configuring web server restrictions to prevent execution of uploaded files. Security professionals should consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious file upload attempts, while also monitoring for unauthorized file uploads in system logs. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following the principle of least privilege and implementing proper input validation as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security guidelines. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and applications within the web infrastructure. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely updates and reduce the window of exposure for known vulnerabilities.