CVE-2024-6885 in MaxiBlocks Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/23/2024
The MaxiBlocks: 2200+ Patterns, 190 Pages, 14.2K Icons & 100 Styles plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the maxi_remove_custom_image_size and maxi_add_custom_image_size functions in all versions up to, and including, 1.9.2. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to delete arbitrary files on the server, which can easily lead to remote code execution when the right file is deleted (such as wp-config.php).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-6885 affects the MaxiBlocks WordPress plugin, specifically targeting versions up to and including 1.9.2. This represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation within the plugin's file handling mechanisms. The issue manifests through two primary functions: maxi_remove_custom_image_size and maxi_add_custom_image_size, which together create a pathway for unauthorized file manipulation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows authenticated attackers who possess at least Subscriber-level privileges to exploit the flaw, making it accessible to users who typically would not have elevated system access rights.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows a classic path traversal pattern where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into file system operations without proper sanitization or validation. When an attacker invokes either of the vulnerable functions with malicious input, the plugin fails to properly validate the file paths provided, allowing the attacker to specify arbitrary file locations for deletion or modification. This weakness directly maps to CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly known as path traversal attacks. The flaw essentially allows attackers to bypass normal file system access controls and operate outside the intended scope of the plugin's functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple file deletion capabilities. While the immediate effect is the ability to remove arbitrary files from the server, the broader implications are significantly more severe. An attacker with access to a Subscriber account can potentially delete critical system files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and other sensitive configuration data. This type of compromise can lead to complete system takeover, as the deletion of such files would render the WordPress installation non-functional and potentially expose the underlying system to further exploitation. The vulnerability creates a direct path to remote code execution when combined with the ability to delete configuration files, making it a particularly dangerous flaw in the context of web application security.
The attack vector for this vulnerability requires minimal privileges, as it only necessitates a Subscriber-level account or higher, which is often easily obtained through various means such as social engineering, credential stuffing, or phishing attacks. Once authenticated, the attacker can leverage the vulnerability to systematically target critical files, potentially leading to complete system compromise. This makes the vulnerability particularly attractive to threat actors who may not have sophisticated access methods but can still gain entry through less secure user accounts. The implications for WordPress sites using this plugin are severe, as the attack surface expands significantly when considering that many sites may have numerous low-privilege users or compromised accounts.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the path validation issues. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as restricting file permissions, implementing proper input validation at multiple layers, and monitoring for unusual file system activity. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper access control and input sanitization practices in WordPress plugin development, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1499 which covers unauthorized access to cloud services. Regular security audits of plugins and themes, along with maintaining updated security frameworks, are essential practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.