The Contact Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the contact form upload feature in all versions up to, and including, 8.6.4. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files to the affected site's server, which may make remote code execution possible in specific configurations where the first extension is processed over the final. Additionally, this vulnerability requires successfully exploiting a race condition in order to exploit.
The severity of this vulnerability is rated as high, with a CVSS score of 8.1. This score reflects a significant risk to organizations that utilize the affected plugin. The potential for remote code execution means that attackers may gain control over the affected systems, leading to data breaches or other malicious activities.
Given the high severity and the possibility of exploitation, organizations should prioritize patching immediately. It is critical to update the Contact Manager plugin to the latest version to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Currently, there is no known exploit available in public repositories, and the vulnerability is not actively exploited. However, the presence of a race condition means that the exploitability could change, making it essential for organizations to remain vigilant.
Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls and monitoring to detect any anomalous activities related to file uploads.
For more information on how to secure your applications effectively and to stay updated on vulnerabilities, consider reviewing best practices for application security.
Addressing this vulnerability should be a priority for organizations to safeguard their web applications.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434, indicating it relates to the improper handling of file uploads. The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H, highlighting that it requires a network attack with high complexity and no privileges or user interaction.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the lack of proper validation for file types in the upload feature of the Contact Manager plugin. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by uploading files that may be processed by the web server, potentially executing arbitrary code if certain conditions are met.
The attack vector is network-based, and the attack complexity is rated as high, meaning that an attacker would need to understand the specific conditions required to successfully execute an exploit.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes potential unauthorized access and control over the server hosting the affected WordPress site. The blast radius for this vulnerability could be significant, affecting all users of the affected plugin if exploited.
Given the high CVSS score and the potential for remote code execution, organizations should assess the urgency of addressing this vulnerability based on their specific environment and exposure.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of the Contact Manager plugin for WordPress up to, and including, version 8.6.4 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations should ensure they upgrade to the latest version to mitigate risks.
Mitigation & Remediation
To remediate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade the Contact Manager plugin to the latest version immediately. If an immediate upgrade is not possible, consider implementing file type restrictions and additional security measures to mitigate potential risks.
For ongoing security validation, organizations should implement a regular security testing strategy, including penetration testing to ensure all components are secure.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual file upload activities and validate file types being uploaded to mitigate this vulnerability. Behavioral anomalies in user interactions with the contact form should also be flagged for review.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-1028 highlights the importance of secure file upload mechanisms in web applications. This vulnerability represents a pattern of common configuration issues in plugins that can lead to critical security flaws.
Security teams should prioritize reviewing and hardening file upload functionalities across all applications to prevent similar vulnerabilities.
For further insights on managing vulnerabilities, organizations can explore resources on vulnerability management and the importance of continuous security assessments.
To enhance security posture, organizations should also consider penetration testing methodologies to proactively identify and remediate vulnerabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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