The SP Project & Document Manager WordPress plugin before version 4.22 contains a high-severity vulnerability that allows users to upload files with unauthorized extensions. Despite attempts to restrict uploads of executable files by checking file extensions, it has been discovered that PHP files can be uploaded by simply changing the case of the file extension from 'php' to 'pHP'. This vulnerability is critical as it may lead to remote code execution on the server.
With a CVSS score of 8.8, the vulnerability is classified as high severity. This indicates significant risk to organizations utilizing the affected plugin, as the ability to upload PHP files can lead to unauthorized access and compromise the integrity of the web server. Therefore, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
The vulnerability was published on June 14, 2021. As of the last modification date in November 2024, it remains unaddressed in versions prior to 4.22. Organizations are advised to assess their usage of the plugin and implement necessary updates to mitigate exposure to this vulnerability.
Risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access and execution of malicious code, which may result in data breaches and loss of sensitive information. Timely remediation is crucial to safeguarding organizational assets.
As of now, there is no known public exploit available for this vulnerability, and it is not listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) database. However, organizations should remain vigilant and monitor for any indications of exploitation.
Given the nature of web applications and the ongoing targeting of vulnerabilities, it is imperative for organizations to maintain a proactive security posture and perform regular security assessments.
Vulnerability Details
The SP Project & Document Manager WordPress plugin before version 4.22 allows users to upload files; however, it attempts to prevent PHP and other executable files from being uploaded by checking the file extension. The vulnerability arises from the fact that PHP files can still be uploaded by changing the case of the file extension from 'php' to 'pHP'.
The CVSS 3.1 score for this vulnerability is 8.8, indicating a high severity. The attack vector is classified as NETWORK, with low complexity, requiring low privileges and no user interaction. The potential impacts include high confidentiality, integrity, and availability risks.
The affected product is the SP Project & Document Manager plugin by Smartypantsplugins. The vulnerability was disclosed on June 14, 2021, and is classified under CWE-178.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the insufficient validation of file extensions during the upload process. The plugin attempts to filter out harmful file types by checking the file extension, but it fails to account for variations in case sensitivity, which allows attackers to bypass the filter.
The attack vector is network-based, meaning that an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely without needing physical access to the server. The attack complexity is low, as it requires only basic knowledge of how to manipulate file uploads. Low privileges are required to exploit this vulnerability, and user interaction is not needed.
If an attacker successfully uploads a PHP file, they can gain high-level access to the server, potentially leading to confidentiality breaches, integrity loss, and availability disruptions.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with this vulnerability is significant. Organizations using the SP Project & Document Manager plugin face potential exposure to severe security incidents, including unauthorized access to sensitive data and server compromise. The ability for an attacker to upload and execute PHP code can have devastating consequences, allowing for persistent backdoors or further exploitation.
Given the high CVSS score of 8.8, organizations should prioritize this vulnerability in their patch management processes. The blast radius of this vulnerability is extensive, as it affects all installations of the plugin prior to version 4.22, potentially impacting any organization that relies on this functionality.
The urgency for remediation is high, considering the nature of web-based vulnerabilities and the potential for attackers to exploit this flaw. Organizations should schedule remediation promptly to avoid any exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch 4.22 of the SP Project & Document Manager plugin are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations should verify their implementation and upgrade to the latest version.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are urged to update the SP Project & Document Manager plugin to version 4.22 or later to remediate this vulnerability. If immediate patching is not possible, consider disabling file uploads temporarily as a workaround until the update can be applied. Additionally, implementing strict firewall rules and monitoring for unusual file activity can help in mitigating the risks associated with this vulnerability.
For ongoing protection, organizations should engage in regular security assessments, including penetration testing to identify potential weaknesses and ensure compliance with security best practices.
Detection Guidance
Monitor application logs for unusual file upload patterns or attempts to upload files with executable extensions. Additionally, security teams should implement network signatures to detect and block known malicious file uploads. Regular audits of system changes and user activity can also aid in identifying unauthorized actions.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The SP Project & Document Manager vulnerability exemplifies the ongoing risks associated with file upload mechanisms in web applications. As organizations increasingly rely on plugins to enhance functionality, they must remain vigilant about the security posture of these components. The ability to exploit file upload vulnerabilities remains a common tactic among attackers, emphasizing the need for robust validation and security practices.
Security teams should consider adopting a penetration testing methodology to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively. Regular training on security best practices for developers is also essential in preventing similar issues from arising in the future.
Overall, maintaining a proactive approach to security, including regular updates and assessments, can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation from vulnerabilities such as CVE-2021-24347.
For further insights on application security and best practices, organizations can refer to our resource on vulnerability management programs to enhance their security frameworks.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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