CVE-2025-39470 in Ivy School Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/18/2025
Path Traversal: '.../...//' vulnerability in ThimPress Ivy School allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Ivy School: from n/a through 1.6.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/18/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2025-39470 represents a critical path traversal flaw in the ThimPress Ivy School plugin that enables unauthorized access to sensitive files through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically manifests when the application fails to properly sanitize user-supplied input that contains directory traversal sequences such as '..././/'. The affected version range spans from the initial release through version 1.6.0, indicating a persistent flaw that has remained unpatched for an extended period. The vulnerability directly enables PHP Local File Inclusion attacks, which can allow attackers to read arbitrary files on the server, potentially exposing configuration files, database credentials, and other sensitive data.
This technical flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's file handling routines. When user input containing traversal sequences is processed without proper restrictions, the application interprets these sequences as legitimate path navigation commands rather than malicious input. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through web requests that pass crafted file paths to the vulnerable plugin functions. The specific pattern '..././/.' represents a common directory traversal technique that attempts to move up the directory hierarchy multiple times while maintaining valid path structure, bypassing basic validation checks that might otherwise detect simple traversal attempts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and multifaceted, potentially allowing attackers to access critical system files, configuration data, and user information stored on the server. Successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized access to administrative functions. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to read WordPress configuration files, database credentials, plugin files, and potentially gain access to user accounts and personal information. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of the system, as it provides unauthorized access to sensitive data and could enable further attack vectors such as code execution or privilege escalation. The long unpatched status suggests that organizations using this plugin are exposed to ongoing risk, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in production environments.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of the Ivy School plugin where the vulnerability has been addressed. Network-based mitigations such as web application firewalls can help detect and block known traversal patterns, though these should not replace proper patching. Input validation should be strengthened at all application entry points to prevent directory traversal sequences from being processed. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-94 Code Injection, representing a combination of path traversal and local file inclusion weaknesses. From an ATT&CK perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1083 File and Directory Discovery and T1566 Phishing, as attackers may use this to gather information about the target system or to prepare for further attacks. System administrators should also conduct thorough security assessments of all installed plugins and themes, particularly those with known vulnerabilities, and implement regular patch management procedures to prevent similar issues from occurring in the future.