The CVE-2024-31210 vulnerability in WordPress presents a significant risk to organizations utilizing this popular content management system. With a CVSS score of 7.6, this vulnerability allows administrative users to upload files of a type other than a zip file as new plugins. This can result in remote code execution (RCE) if FTP credentials are requested during installation, enabling the unauthorized execution of arbitrary PHP code. Given the critical nature of this exposure, organizations must take immediate action.
The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access to sensitive data and disruption of services. This vulnerability specifically affects Administrator level users on single-site installations and Super Admin level users on Multisite installations. Lower-level users do not have this exposure. The urgency for defenders is high, as exploitation could lead to significant operational impacts.
As of now, there are no known exploits or proof of concept available for this vulnerability. However, organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risk before any potential exploitation occurs. The vulnerability was addressed in WordPress 6.4.3, released on January 30, 2024. Backported fixes are also available for earlier versions.
Organizations must implement the necessary updates and monitor their installations closely to ensure security against this vulnerability and similar threats in the future.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2024-31210 states that it allows for a file upload of a type other than a zip file by an administrative user on the Plugins -> Add New -> Upload Plugin screen in WordPress. If the `DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT` constant is set to `true` and FTP credentials are required, the uploaded file remains temporarily available in the Media Library despite not being allowed.
The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434: Unrestricted File Upload. This issue has a CVSS score of 7.6, indicating high severity, with an attack vector of NETWORK, high attack complexity, and requires high privileges and user interaction.
The affected product is WordPress, with the issue fixed in version 6.4.3 and backported to multiple previous versions. The publication date of this vulnerability is April 4, 2024.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of file uploads, which allows for files other than zip files to be uploaded as plugins. The attack vector is network-based, and the attack complexity is high due to the requirement for administrative privileges and user interaction. If the `DISALLOW_FILE_EDIT` constant is set to `true`, and FTP credentials are required, the risk of RCE is present, as the user could execute arbitrary PHP code.
To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker must have administrative access to a WordPress installation. The user interaction required adds an additional layer of complexity, as it necessitates that the attacker manipulate an administrative user into performing the upload.
The potential impacts of exploiting this vulnerability are severe, with high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Organizations running vulnerable versions of WordPress should evaluate their exposure and take immediate steps to remediate.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2024-31210 is significant, particularly for organizations that rely on WordPress for their online presence. The attack surface is broad, as many installations may not have implemented all security measures, such as setting the `DISALLOW_FILE_MODS` constant to `true`.
The urgency assessment based on the CVSS score indicates that organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle. The potential for unauthorized access or data exfiltration poses a serious threat to organizational security.
In addition, the blast radius of this vulnerability could include all sites hosted on a vulnerable WordPress installation, which emphasizes the need for rapid remediation. Organizations must evaluate their risk management practices to ensure they can respond to this and similar vulnerabilities proactively.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch are affected by this vulnerability. The issue has been fixed in WordPress 6.4.3 and backported to numerous earlier versions including 6.3.3, 6.2.4, 6.1.5, and many others down to version 4.1.40.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The patch for CVE-2024-31210 is available in WordPress 6.4.3. For those unable to update, a workaround is to set the `DISALLOW_FILE_MODS` constant to `true`, which will prevent any user from uploading plugins.
Additionally, organizations should regularly review their WordPress installations for vulnerabilities and consider implementing comprehensive security measures such as web application firewalls and regular security assessments. For further guidance, organizations can refer to the application security assessment services offered to enhance their security posture.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for unusual file uploads, especially those involving plugin installations. Additionally, behavioral anomalies should be assessed, such as unexpected changes to user roles or capabilities.
Network signatures can also be useful in identifying unauthorized access attempts. Regularly reviewing system changes and ensuring monitoring protocols are in place will help organizations maintain a secure environment.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2024-31210 lies in its illustration of the risks associated with file upload functionality in web applications. This vulnerability highlights the importance of implementing strict controls around file uploads and ensuring that administrative privileges are properly managed.
This incident reinforces the need for organizations to adopt robust security practices, including regular security assessments and adherence to secure coding guidelines. Security teams should take this opportunity to review their policies and ensure they are prepared for similar vulnerabilities in the future.
For further insights on managing vulnerabilities effectively, organizations can explore our vulnerability management program and consider engaging in red teaming as a service for comprehensive security evaluations.
Lastly, organizations should remain vigilant and proactive in their security practices to mitigate the risks posed by similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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