CVE-2024-9461 in Total Upkeep Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/26/2024
The Total Upkeep – WordPress Backup Plugin plus Restore & Migrate by BoldGrid plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution in all versions up to, and including, 1.16.6 via the cron_interval parameter. This is due to missing input validation and sanitization. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to execute code on the server.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/26/2024
The Total Upkeep WordPress backup plugin developed by BoldGrid presents a critical remote code execution vulnerability that affects all versions up to and including 1.16.6. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, specifically targeting the cron_interval parameter which is used for scheduling backup operations. The flaw exists at the core of how the plugin processes user-supplied parameters, creating an avenue for malicious exploitation that could compromise entire WordPress installations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows authenticated attackers who have achieved administrator-level privileges or higher to inject arbitrary code through the cron_interval parameter. This parameter typically controls how frequently automated backup tasks run, but due to insufficient sanitization, malicious inputs can be executed within the server context. The vulnerability operates under the CWE-74 principle of improper neutralization of special elements used in a code context, where user-controllable data flows directly into execution contexts without proper validation. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious payloads that exploit the plugin's handling of scheduled tasks, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution as it provides attackers with persistent access to server resources and the ability to manipulate backup configurations. An attacker with administrator privileges could modify backup schedules, inject malicious scripts into backup files, or even establish backdoors for continued access. This vulnerability significantly undermines the security posture of WordPress installations relying on the Total Upkeep plugin, as it transforms a legitimate administrative function into a vector for privilege escalation and system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the vulnerability requires only administrative access, which many organizations may not adequately monitor or restrict.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching to version 1.16.7 or later where the input validation issues have been addressed. Organizations should also implement network-level restrictions to limit access to WordPress administrative interfaces and consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious parameter injection attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, where adversaries use legitimate system utilities to execute malicious code. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security audits of their WordPress installations to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins and ensure proper input validation across all administrative interfaces. Regular security monitoring and access control reviews are essential to prevent unauthorized administrators from exploiting this weakness.