CVE-2024-7384 in AcyMailing Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/22/2024
The AcyMailing – An Ultimate Newsletter Plugin and Marketing Automation Solution for WordPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the acym_extractArchive function in all versions up to, and including, 9.7.2. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/27/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-7384 affects the AcyMailing WordPress plugin, a comprehensive newsletter and marketing automation solution that has been widely adopted across WordPress installations. This security flaw exists within the acym_extractArchive function where the plugin fails to properly validate file types during archive extraction processes. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates within a plugin that is designed for marketing automation and email distribution, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to establish persistent access to WordPress environments. The affected versions range from the initial release through 9.7.2, indicating a prolonged period during which this weakness remained undetected and exploitable.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation within the acym_extractArchive function which processes compressed archive files uploaded through the plugin's functionality. When an authenticated user with Subscriber-level privileges or higher attempts to upload a malicious archive, the system does not properly verify the file types contained within the archive before extraction. This missing validation allows attackers to include executable files or scripts within seemingly benign archive formats, bypassing the standard WordPress security measures designed to prevent malicious file uploads. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, which specifically addresses the insecure upload of code, and represents a classic case of inadequate file type validation in web applications. The weakness creates a path for privilege escalation since the plugin's functionality is accessible to users with relatively low privileges, yet the uploaded files can execute with the privileges of the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends far beyond simple unauthorized file uploads, as it creates a potential pathway for remote code execution on affected WordPress installations. An attacker who gains access through a Subscriber-level account can leverage this vulnerability to upload malicious files that may include web shells, backdoors, or other malicious payloads. This capability allows for complete compromise of the affected WordPress site, enabling attackers to modify content, steal sensitive data, perform further reconnaissance, or establish persistent access to the compromised environment. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003, which involves the use of web shells for maintaining access, and T1078.004, which covers legitimate accounts used for persistence. The impact is particularly severe because the plugin is commonly used for business-critical email marketing operations, making successful exploitation potentially devastating for organizations that rely on these systems for customer communication and data handling.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their WordPress installations. The most critical immediate action involves updating to the latest available version of the AcyMailing plugin where this vulnerability has been addressed through proper file type validation and sanitization of archive contents. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting file upload capabilities to only trusted users, implementing strict file type whitelisting for all uploaded content, and monitoring for suspicious file upload activities. Network-based intrusion detection systems should be configured to alert on unusual file upload patterns and archive extraction activities. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify other potential vulnerabilities, and automated patch management systems should be deployed to ensure timely updates across all WordPress installations. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, as it could have been prevented through basic security engineering practices that validate all user-supplied input before processing.