CVE-2024-9455 in WP Cleanup and Basic Functions Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/05/2024
The WP Cleanup and Basic Functions plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via SVG File uploads in all versions up to, and including, 2.2.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Author-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses the SVG file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/08/2025
The WP Cleanup and Basic Functions plugin for WordPress presents a critical security vulnerability classified as CVE-2024-9455, affecting all versions through 2.2.1. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms within the plugin's SVG file upload functionality. The flaw specifically targets the handling of Scalable Vector Graphics files, which are commonly used for web graphics and typically considered safe due to their vector nature. However, the plugin's failure to properly validate and sanitize SVG file contents creates an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to embed malicious scripts within these files.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when authenticated users with Author-level privileges or higher upload SVG files containing malicious JavaScript code. The plugin does not adequately filter or escape the content of uploaded SVG files, allowing attackers to embed script tags or other malicious elements within the vector graphics. When other users access pages displaying these SVG files, the embedded scripts execute in their browsers, creating a persistent cross-site scripting attack vector. This stored XSS vulnerability operates through the standard WordPress file upload mechanism, leveraging the plugin's lack of proper content validation to establish a foothold for further exploitation.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-9455 extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform session hijacking, steal user credentials, or redirect victims to malicious websites. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges, making it particularly dangerous in environments where authors have access to upload functionality. Attackers can craft malicious SVG files that appear legitimate while containing hidden malicious payloads, potentially compromising multiple users who view the compromised content. The persistent nature of stored XSS means that once the malicious SVG is uploaded, it continues to affect users until manually removed from the system.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest plugin version, if available, and implementing additional input validation measures. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and follows attack patterns described in the ATT&CK framework under T1059.007 for scripting and T1566 for phishing techniques. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SVG uploads, while also conducting thorough security audits of all installed WordPress plugins. Regular monitoring of file upload directories and implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide additional defense layers against this specific attack vector. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation even for seemingly benign file types like SVG images, highlighting the need for comprehensive security testing across all plugin functionalities.