CVE-2019-25149 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

CVE-2019-25149 pertains to a vulnerability in the WordPress plugin Gallery Images Ape, allowing authenticated attackers to deactivate essential plugins on a site.

Understanding CVE-2019-25149

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Gallery Images Ape WordPress plugin that enables authenticated users to deactivate critical plugins on a website.

What is CVE-2019-25149?

The vulnerability in the Gallery Images Ape plugin allows authenticated users with any capability level to deactivate essential plugins on a WordPress site, compromising its functionality and security.

The Impact of CVE-2019-25149

The vulnerability poses a high severity risk, with a CVSS base score of 7.6, allowing attackers to disrupt site operations by deactivating crucial plugins.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-25149

This section provides detailed technical information about the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Gallery Images Ape versions up to 2.0.6 permits authenticated users to deactivate any plugin on the site, including critical ones.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: galleryape
Product: Gallery Images Ape
Versions affected: up to and including 2.0.6
Versions less than 2.0.7 are vulnerable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with authenticated access and any capability level can exploit this vulnerability to deactivate essential plugins on a WordPress site.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2019-25149 with these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Gallery Images Ape to version 2.0.7 or higher to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor plugin activations and deactivations for any unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review user capabilities and access levels.
Implement multi-factor authentication to enhance user verification.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to all WordPress plugins and themes to prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2019-25149.