CVE-2024-5709 in WPBakery Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/06/2024
The WPBakery Visual Composer plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in all versions up to, and including, 7.7 via the 'layout_name' parameter. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Author-level access and above, and with post permissions granted by an Administrator, to include and execute arbitrary files on the server, allowing the execution of any PHP code in those files. This can be used to bypass access controls, obtain sensitive data, or achieve code execution in cases where images and other “safe” file types can be uploaded and included.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/29/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-5709 affects the WPBakery Visual Composer plugin for WordPress, representing a critical local file inclusion flaw that has existed across all versions up to and including 7.7. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's handling of the 'layout_name' parameter, which creates an avenue for authenticated attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms. The flaw is particularly concerning because it requires only author-level privileges and post permissions granted by an administrator, making it accessible to users who already have significant access within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability operates under the CWE-22 category, which specifically addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. This classification aligns with the ATT&CK framework's T1059.007 technique for command and scripting interpreter, as the vulnerability enables arbitrary code execution through PHP file inclusion.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's layout handling functionality. When an authenticated user with appropriate permissions submits a request containing a malicious 'layout_name' parameter, the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize this input before using it in file inclusion operations. This allows attackers to manipulate the file path to include arbitrary files stored on the server, potentially including PHP scripts that could contain malicious code. The vulnerability's exploitation pathway is particularly dangerous because it can be leveraged to bypass existing access controls, as the included files are executed with the privileges of the web server process. Attackers can utilize this weakness to include files that may have been uploaded by other means, such as image uploads that are stored in predictable locations, thereby creating a multi-stage attack vector.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-5709 extends beyond simple code execution, as it can lead to complete system compromise when combined with other vulnerabilities or attack vectors. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to sensitive data stored within the WordPress installation, including user credentials, database connection details, and potentially other system information. The ability to execute arbitrary PHP code means that attackers can establish persistent backdoors, modify website content, or even pivot to attack other systems within the network. This vulnerability particularly threatens WordPress installations that have multiple users with author-level permissions, as it reduces the attack surface required to achieve successful exploitation. The risk is amplified when considering that many WordPress installations allow authors to upload various file types, including images, which can be manipulated to include malicious code. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to attackers seeking to establish long-term access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-5709 should focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the local file inclusion vulnerability. Organizations should ensure that all instances of the WPBakery Visual Composer plugin are updated to the latest available version that contains proper input validation and sanitization measures. Additionally, administrators should implement strict access controls and privilege management, limiting the number of users with author-level permissions and ensuring that only trusted individuals have the ability to create or modify posts. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file inclusion patterns or attempts to access system files through the plugin interface. Security measures should include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious requests containing suspicious path traversal sequences, and regular security audits should be conducted to verify that no malicious files have been uploaded or executed within the system. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, particularly when dealing with content management systems that provide rich editing capabilities.