CVE-2024-6320 in ScrollTo Top Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2024
The ScrollTo Top plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Cross-Site Request Forgery to Arbitrary File Upload in versions up to, and including, 1.2.2. This is due to missing nonce validation and missing file type validation in the 'options_page' function. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible via a forged request granted they can trick a site administrator into performing an action such as clicking on a link.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6320 affects the ScrollTo Top plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 1.2.2, presenting a critical security risk through Cross-Site Request Forgery combined with Arbitrary File Upload capabilities. This flaw stems from inadequate security controls within the plugin's 'options_page' function where essential nonce validation mechanisms are completely absent, allowing unauthorized users to bypass authentication requirements. The vulnerability also lacks proper file type validation, creating an exploitable pathway for attackers to upload malicious files to the target server. The absence of these fundamental security measures creates a dangerous scenario where unauthenticated attackers can manipulate the plugin's functionality to achieve their malicious objectives.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability operates through a well-established attack pattern that aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery vulnerabilities. Attackers can craft malicious requests that appear legitimate to the WordPress system, exploiting the missing nonce validation to bypass security checks that would normally require authenticated user sessions. The lack of file type validation means that attackers can upload files with extensions that may execute code on the web server, potentially allowing for remote code execution if the uploaded files are placed in directories accessible via web requests. This vulnerability represents a serious design flaw in the plugin's security architecture, where the developers failed to implement basic input validation and authentication controls that are fundamental to secure web application development.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-6320 extends beyond simple file upload capabilities, as it creates a potential gateway for complete system compromise. When combined with social engineering techniques, attackers can trick site administrators into clicking malicious links that trigger the file upload functionality, effectively turning the administrator's authenticated session into an attack vector. This scenario enables attackers to upload web shells, malicious plugins, or other payloads that can provide persistent access to the compromised WordPress installation. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by the fact that it affects the plugin's administrative interface, meaning that even if the main WordPress installation has proper security measures, the compromised plugin creates an exploitable entry point. According to ATT&CK framework category T1505.003, this vulnerability enables an attacker to establish persistence through web shell deployment, while T1190 represents the social engineering aspect that enables the exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-6320 must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The most critical action is to upgrade to a patched version of the ScrollTo Top plugin, as the vulnerability has been resolved in newer releases that implement proper nonce validation and file type restrictions. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting file upload directories, implementing web application firewalls to detect suspicious file upload patterns, and monitoring for unauthorized plugin modifications. Network-level protections such as restricting external access to plugin administrative interfaces and implementing proper access controls can further reduce the attack surface. Security professionals should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect the presence of vulnerable plugins and alert administrators to remediation requirements. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper security testing during plugin development and emphasizes the need for developers to follow secure coding practices that include comprehensive input validation, authentication controls, and proper error handling mechanisms that align with industry standards such as those defined in OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.