CVE-2024-6599 in Video Importer Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/18/2024
The Meks Video Importer plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized API key modification due to a missing capability check on the ajax_save_settings function in all versions up to, and including, 1.0.11. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to modify the plugin's API keys
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/19/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6599 affects the Meks Video Importer plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 1.0.11. This represents a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of the plugin's configuration management system. The issue stems from the absence of proper capability validation within the ajax_save_settings function, which serves as the primary interface for modifying plugin settings. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows attackers with minimal privileges to escalate their access and manipulate critical system parameters that control video import functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability resides in the ajax_save_settings function which lacks adequate permission verification before processing API key modifications. This function operates without checking whether the requesting user possesses sufficient privileges to modify sensitive configuration parameters. The flaw aligns with CWE-285, which addresses insufficient authorization issues in software systems, specifically targeting the failure to verify that users have appropriate access rights before performing privileged operations. In WordPress environments, this creates a scenario where users with Subscriber-level access or higher can exploit this weakness to modify API keys that typically require Administrator privileges to change.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation as it provides attackers with the ability to manipulate the plugin's core functionality. By modifying API keys, unauthorized users can potentially redirect video import operations to malicious endpoints, disrupt legitimate content import processes, or even gain access to sensitive data that the plugin may be configured to access. This vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly by authenticated attackers, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where various user roles exist. The attack surface is further expanded because API key modifications can affect the entire video import pipeline and potentially compromise the security of connected services.
The implications of this vulnerability align with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1548.001 which addresses abuse of privileges. Attackers can leverage this weakness to maintain persistent access and perform unauthorized modifications that could go undetected for extended periods. The lack of proper capability checks creates a direct path for privilege escalation and system compromise. Organizations using this plugin should immediately implement mitigation measures including immediate plugin updates to versions that address this vulnerability, implementing role-based access controls, and monitoring for unauthorized configuration changes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and capability verification in WordPress plugin development, as highlighted in the OWASP Top Ten and WordPress security hardening guidelines. Without proper patching, systems remain vulnerable to attackers who can use this weakness to gain unauthorized control over video import functionality and potentially compromise the broader WordPress environment through the manipulation of API credentials.