CVE-2024-7627 in Bit File Manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 09/05/2024
The Bit File Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution in versions 6.0 to 6.5.5 via the 'checkSyntax' function. This is due to writing a temporary file to a publicly accessible directory before performing file validation. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to execute code on the server if an administrator has allowed Guest User read permissions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/06/2024
The Bit File Manager plugin for WordPress presents a critical remote code execution vulnerability affecting versions 6.0 through 6.5.5 as identified by CVE-2024-7627. This vulnerability stems from improper handling of file operations within the plugin's 'checkSyntax' function, creating a dangerous condition that allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw specifically manifests when the plugin writes temporary files to directories that are publicly accessible, bypassing normal security restrictions that would typically prevent such operations. This vulnerability represents a significant risk to WordPress installations as it can be exploited by unauthenticated attackers without requiring any prior authorization or credentials to gain access to the underlying server infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the plugin's failure to properly validate file paths and directory permissions during the syntax checking process. When the 'checkSyntax' function processes user-provided input, it creates temporary files in locations that are accessible via standard web requests, effectively creating a writable directory that can be exploited. This design flaw allows attackers to inject malicious code into these temporary files, which are then executed by the web server when the syntax checking function processes the input. The vulnerability specifically targets installations where guest users have been granted read permissions, as this configuration allows unauthenticated attackers to leverage the temporary file creation mechanism to achieve code execution. This weakness aligns with CWE-22, which describes improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-74, which covers injection flaws, specifically targeting the manipulation of file paths to execute unauthorized code.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the underlying server infrastructure. Once exploited, attackers can potentially escalate privileges, install backdoors, modify existing files, or even establish command and control channels for further malicious activities. The vulnerability's exploitation does not require authentication, making it particularly dangerous as it can be targeted by automated scanning tools or malicious actors seeking to compromise WordPress installations at scale. Organizations running affected versions of the Bit File Manager plugin face significant risk of data breaches, system compromise, and potential regulatory violations, especially in environments where WordPress serves as a critical component of business operations. This vulnerability can also be leveraged as a stepping stone for broader network attacks, as compromised WordPress installations often serve as entry points for attackers to move laterally within corporate networks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-7627 should prioritize immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the temporary file handling vulnerability. Organizations should implement comprehensive monitoring of their WordPress installations to detect any unauthorized modifications or suspicious file creation activities in public directories. Network administrators should consider implementing web application firewalls to block requests that attempt to create or modify files in publicly accessible locations, as outlined in the attack patterns documented under the MITRE ATT&CK framework for web application attacks. Additionally, security teams should review and restrict guest user permissions to prevent unauthorized access to file management functions, particularly in environments where guest users have any level of read access. System hardening measures including proper file permission configurations, regular security audits, and maintaining up-to-date security patches for all WordPress components remain essential defensive measures against this and similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices, particularly in handling temporary file operations, as specified in industry standards for secure software development.