A recently discovered vulnerability with the identifier CVE-2024-56046 poses a serious risk for users of VibeThemes WPLMS versions up to 1.9.9. This vulnerability, classified as an Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type, allows an attacker to upload a web shell onto a victim's web server. Once uploaded, the attacker can gain unauthorized access to the server and execute arbitrary code, which can lead to further system exploitation and data exfiltration.
In this post, we will describe the vulnerability in detail, provide code snippets to demonstrate the issue, and outline potential exploit scenarios. We will also provide references to original sources and recommendations for mitigation. Readers are encouraged to update their VibeThemes WPLMS installations to the latest version or implement the suggested mitigations to avoid falling victim to this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-2024-56046 affects VibeThemes WPLMS, a popular learning management system (LMS) for WordPress. Specifically, this vulnerability is present in versions up to and including 1.9.9, as there is no restriction on the types of files that can be uploaded via the platform.
An attacker can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious file, such as a web shell or other executable code, and uploading it to the victim's web server. Once uploaded, the attacker can remotely execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to unauthorized system access, data theft, or other malicious activity.
Exploit Scenario
To exploit CVE-2024-56046, an attacker would first create a malicious PHP file with the desired payload. For example, a simple web shell might include code such as:
<?php
if(isset($_REQUEST['cmd']))
{
echo '<pre>';
$cmd = ($_REQUEST['cmd']);
system($cmd);
echo '</pre>';
die;
}
?>
Next, the attacker would upload this file to the victim's web server via the vulnerable VibeThemes WPLMS platform. This could be achieved, for example, by targeting the image upload functionality, which is intended for user profile images but does not properly restrict file types.
Once the malicious file is uploaded, the attacker can access the file remotely via a web browser or other client, and execute arbitrary code on the server by sending HTTP requests containing command parameters.
To protect your web server from this vulnerability, we recommended following these steps
1. Update VibeThemes WPLMS to the latest version, if possible. The developers have likely addressed this vulnerability in subsequent releases, and running the latest version of any software is generally the best practice for security reasons.
2. If updating is not possible, implement server-side file type restrictions. Configure your web server or WPLMS settings to only accept specific file types, such as images, and deny any potentially dangerous types, such as PHP files.
3. Monitor your web server for any suspicious activity, unidentified files, or unauthorized access. Regular monitoring can help spot any potential intrusions early and allow for prompt remediation.
4. Limit the functionality of the server. If your system does not require users to upload files, disabling the upload functionality of VibeThemes WPLMS may be a viable option.
Original information about this vulnerability can be found at the following sources
- CVE Details
- Exploit Database
- VibeThemes WPLMS Official Website
In summary, CVE-2024-56046 is a critical vulnerability in VibeThemes WPLMS that allows attackers to upload potentially dangerous files, such as web shells, to a victim's web server. Users of WPLMS up to version 1.9.9 should consider upgrading to the latest version, implementing server-side file restrictions, and regularly monitoring their systems for any suspicious activity to avoid falling prey to this exploit.
Timeline
Published on: 12/31/2024 13:15:07 UTC