CVE-2018-12426 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A vulnerability in the WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin for WordPress allows unauthenticated Remote Code Execution prior to version 8.0.07.

Understanding CVE-2018-12426

This CVE involves a security flaw in the WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin for WordPress that enables unauthenticated Remote Code Execution.

What is CVE-2018-12426?

The vulnerability in versions before 8.0.07 of the WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin for WordPress allows attackers to execute remote code due to improper client-side validation of permitted file types.

The Impact of CVE-2018-12426

This vulnerability can be exploited by sending a request for remote_upload with a filename of .php and a content type of image/jpeg, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution on the affected system.

Technical Details of CVE-2018-12426

This section provides more technical insights into the CVE-2018-12426 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin for WordPress is susceptible to unauthenticated Remote Code Execution because of inadequate validation of allowed file types, allowing malicious actors to upload PHP files disguised as image files.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Version: Prior to 8.0.07 of the WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin for WordPress

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending a request for remote_upload with a filename of .php and a content type of image/jpeg.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2018-12426 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the WP Live Chat Support Pro plugin to version 8.0.07 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor for any suspicious activities on the WordPress site.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict file upload validation mechanisms to prevent unauthorized file execution.
Regularly audit and update plugins and themes to address security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to ensure the protection of WordPress sites from known vulnerabilities.