CVE-2024-56249 in WPMasterToolKit Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/02/2025
Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type vulnerability in Webdeclic WPMasterToolKit allows Upload a Web Shell to a Web Server.This issue affects WPMasterToolKit: from n/a through 1.13.1.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/02/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-56249 represents a critical security flaw in the Webdeclic WPMasterToolKit plugin for WordPress systems. This issue falls under the category of unrestricted file upload vulnerabilities, which are particularly dangerous because they allow attackers to bypass normal file validation mechanisms and upload malicious files directly to the web server. The vulnerability specifically affects versions of WPMasterToolKit from the initial release through version 1.13.1, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple iterations of the plugin. The core problem lies in the absence of proper file type validation and sanitization during the upload process, creating an avenue for malicious actors to exploit the system's file handling capabilities.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker successfully uploads a web shell file through the plugin's upload functionality. This typically involves uploading a file with a dangerous file extension such as .php, .asp, or .jsp that can execute code on the web server. The flaw enables attackers to bypass standard security measures that would normally prevent execution of potentially harmful files. According to CWE-434, this vulnerability maps directly to unrestricted file upload issues where the application accepts files without proper validation of their content or type. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it allows for arbitrary code execution on the target server, providing attackers with full control over the compromised system.
The operational consequences of this vulnerability are severe and far-reaching for organizations using affected WordPress installations. Once an attacker successfully uploads a web shell, they gain persistent access to the server, enabling them to perform various malicious activities including data exfiltration, privilege escalation, and establishing backdoors for future access. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat that can remain undetected for extended periods, as web shells often mimic legitimate system processes. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability aligns with techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under T1105 (Ingress Tool Transfer) and T1059 (Command and Scripting Interpreter), where attackers leverage compromised systems to establish persistent access and execute commands. The impact extends beyond immediate compromise to include potential lateral movement within network environments and data breach scenarios.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-56249 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. Organizations should immediately upgrade to the latest version of WPMasterToolKit where the vulnerability has been patched, as this represents the most effective immediate solution. Additionally, implementing proper file type validation and content verification mechanisms should be enforced at the application level, ensuring that only safe file types are accepted for upload. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional layers of defense by monitoring and filtering suspicious upload attempts. Security hardening measures including restricting file upload permissions, implementing proper access controls, and conducting regular security audits of uploaded files should be implemented. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege, where file upload functionality should be restricted to authorized users with appropriate permissions and validation checks in place to prevent unauthorized code execution.