CVE-2024-6431 in Ads Manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/27/2024
The Media.net Ads Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation and missing capability check in the 'sendMail' function in all versions up to, and including, 2.10.13. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level and above permissions, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible. The vulnerability is only exploitable if anyone has ever logged in through the API.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/30/2024
The Media.net Ads Manager plugin for WordPress presents a critical security vulnerability classified as CVE-2024-6431 that stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate access control mechanisms. This flaw exists within the plugin's 'sendMail' function where proper file type validation is absent and capability checks are missing, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 2.10.13, making it a widespread concern for WordPress installations that rely on this advertising management solution. The security implications are severe as the flaw permits authenticated attackers with subscriber-level permissions or higher to execute arbitrary file uploads on affected servers, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-434 which describes insecure file upload mechanisms where applications fail to validate file types or enforce proper access controls during file handling operations. The absence of file type validation creates an opportunity for attackers to upload malicious files such as php scripts, shell scripts, or other executable content that can be executed on the web server. The missing capability check represents a fundamental flaw in the principle of least privilege, where the plugin fails to verify that the requesting user possesses appropriate authorization levels before allowing file upload operations. This vulnerability operates under the assumption that legitimate API access exists, as the exploit requires at least one user to have logged in through the API interface, making it a targeted attack vector rather than a completely open exploit.
From an operational standpoint, the impact of CVE-2024-6431 extends beyond simple file upload capabilities to potentially enable full remote code execution on affected WordPress installations. Attackers who successfully exploit this vulnerability can deploy web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads that persist across server restarts and can be used to maintain unauthorized access. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges but significant operational knowledge, making it particularly dangerous in environments where subscriber accounts are not properly monitored or restricted. The attack surface is expanded when considering that many WordPress sites allow user registration, potentially creating a broader pool of potential attackers who could escalate their privileges through this vulnerability.
Security mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-6431 should focus on immediate plugin updates to versions that address the file validation and capability check deficiencies. System administrators must implement comprehensive file upload restrictions including MIME type validation, filename sanitization, and proper file extension filtering. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting API access to trusted users only and implementing strict access controls for file upload functions. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls can provide additional protection layers, while regular security audits should monitor for unauthorized file uploads or suspicious API activity. Organizations should also consider implementing file integrity monitoring solutions to detect unauthorized changes to critical system files. The vulnerability's classification under ATT&CK technique T1190 for exploit public-facing application and T1059 for command and script injection highlights the need for layered defensive measures that address both the immediate exploit vector and broader attack patterns. Regular patch management processes should be implemented to ensure all WordPress plugins and themes remain up-to-date with the latest security patches, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms in preventing privilege escalation attacks.