CVE-2018-20714 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2018-20714, a vulnerability in the Automattic WooCommerce plugin for WordPress allowing privilege escalation. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures here.
A vulnerability in the logging mechanism of the Automattic WooCommerce plugin for WordPress allows privilege escalation to admin level.
Understanding CVE-2018-20714
This CVE involves a security flaw in the WooCommerce plugin for WordPress that enables unauthorized privilege escalation.
What is CVE-2018-20714?
The vulnerability in the Automattic WooCommerce plugin version 3.4.6 and earlier allows the deletion of critical files, leading to privilege escalation.
The Impact of CVE-2018-20714
The vulnerability permits shop managers to elevate their privileges to admin level by exploiting the logging mechanism.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-20714
The technical aspects of the vulnerability are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
The flaw in the logging system of the WooCommerce plugin allows the deletion of woocommerce.php, bypassing privilege checks.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Automattic WooCommerce plugin
- Vendor: Automattic
- Versions affected: 3.4.6 and earlier
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability enables shop managers to delete critical files, leading to the escalation of their privileges to admin level.
Mitigation and Prevention
To address CVE-2018-20714, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the WooCommerce plugin to the latest version.
- Monitor and restrict shop manager privileges.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly audit and review plugin permissions.
- Implement least privilege access controls.
Patching and Updates
- Apply security patches promptly.
- Stay informed about plugin vulnerabilities and updates.