CVE-2024-9507 in Contact Form Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/11/2024
The Contact Form by Bit Form: Multi Step Form, Calculation Contact Form, Payment Contact Form & Custom Contact Form builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file read in all versions up to, and including, 2.15.2 due to improper input validation within the iconUpload function. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to leverage a PHP filter chain attack and read the contents of arbitrary files on the server, which can contain sensitive information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/11/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-9507 affects the Contact Form by Bit Form plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 2.15.2. This security flaw resides within the iconUpload function where inadequate input validation creates a pathway for malicious exploitation. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it requires only authenticated access with Administrator-level privileges or higher, making it accessible to users who already have significant control over the WordPress installation. The attack vector leverages PHP filter chain techniques to bypass normal file access restrictions and retrieve contents from arbitrary files on the compromised server.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of user-provided input within the iconUpload functionality. When administrators upload form icons, the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize the file paths and references, allowing attackers to manipulate the upload process. This weakness enables the exploitation of PHP filter chains, which can transform the file read operation into a more sophisticated attack that can traverse the file system and access sensitive files that should normally be restricted. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-22, which addresses improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, and CWE-73, which covers external control of file name or path. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access configuration files, database credentials, plugin source code, and potentially other sensitive data that may be stored on the server.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-9507 extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it provides attackers with access to critical system components that can facilitate further compromise of the WordPress environment. An attacker with administrative privileges can use this vulnerability to read sensitive files containing database connection strings, API keys, or other authentication credentials that could enable lateral movement within the network. The attack chain typically involves uploading a malicious file through the icon upload mechanism and then leveraging PHP filter chains to read arbitrary files from the server's file system. This capability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential access through social engineering, and T1078, which addresses valid accounts for persistence. The vulnerability essentially transforms a limited file upload function into a powerful information extraction tool that can be used for reconnaissance and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-9507 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the input validation issues within the iconUpload function. System administrators should ensure that all WordPress installations are running the latest patched versions of the Contact Form by Bit Form plugin, as the vulnerability is resolved in versions beyond 2.15.2. Additionally, implementing strict file upload restrictions and validation mechanisms can help prevent exploitation even if other security measures fail. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review and restrict administrator privileges to minimize the potential impact of such vulnerabilities. The implementation of web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions can provide additional layers of protection by detecting and blocking malicious file read attempts. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by threat actors.