CVE-2024-7863 in Favicon Generator Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 09/13/2024
The Favicon Generator (CLOSED) WordPress plugin before 2.1 does not validate files to be uploaded and does not have CSRF checks, which could allow attackers to make logged in admin upload arbitrary files such as PHP on the server
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2025
The CVE-2024-7863 vulnerability affects the Favicon Generator WordPress plugin version 2.0 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk due to insufficient input validation and missing cross-site request forgery protection mechanisms. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's file upload functionality, which fails to properly validate the type and content of files being uploaded to the WordPress installation. The absence of proper validation allows attackers to bypass security controls and upload malicious files, including PHP scripts, directly to the web server. The vulnerability specifically targets authenticated administrators who have access to the plugin's upload interface, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages existing administrative privileges rather than requiring additional exploitation techniques.
The technical flaw manifests through two primary weaknesses that combine to create a dangerous attack vector. First, the plugin lacks file type validation, meaning it does not verify that uploaded files conform to expected formats or contain malicious content. Second, the absence of CSRF protection means that attackers can craft malicious requests that trick authenticated administrators into uploading files without their knowledge or consent. This combination creates a scenario where an attacker could potentially upload a PHP web shell or other malicious code that would execute with the privileges of the web server. The vulnerability directly maps to CWE-434 which describes insecure file upload vulnerabilities where applications accept files without proper validation, and CWE-352 which addresses cross-site request forgery issues in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing complete compromise of affected WordPress installations. Once an attacker successfully uploads malicious files, they can execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to data breaches, server takeover, or use as a foothold for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability enables attackers to establish persistent access through web shells, manipulate website content, steal sensitive data, or use the compromised server as a launch point for attacks against other systems. The risk is particularly elevated because the attack requires only administrative access, which may be obtained through other means such as credential theft or social engineering. This vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which involves exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications, and T1059 which covers execution through command and scripting interpreters.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately update to version 2.1 or later of the Favicon Generator plugin, which includes proper file validation and CSRF protection mechanisms. The update process should be conducted carefully to ensure all plugin files are properly replaced and that the WordPress installation remains functional. Additionally, administrators should review user permissions and implement additional security measures such as two-factor authentication to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious file upload activities, and regular security audits should be performed to identify other potential vulnerabilities in the WordPress ecosystem. The remediation process should also include reviewing the web server's file permissions and ensuring that uploaded files are stored in secure locations with appropriate access controls. Security teams should implement automated scanning tools to detect similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and themes, as this type of issue commonly affects WordPress installations due to the widespread use of third-party plugins with insufficient security controls.