CVE-2020-10257 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The ThemeREX Addons plugin for WordPress before 2020-03-09 allows unauthorized PHP function execution due to a lack of access control on a specific REST API endpoint.

Understanding CVE-2020-10257

This CVE highlights a critical vulnerability in the ThemeREX Addons plugin for WordPress that could be exploited by attackers.

What is CVE-2020-10257?

The ThemeREX Addons plugin before 2020-03-09 for WordPress lacks access control on the /trx_addons/v2/get/sc_layout REST API endpoint, enabling unauthorized PHP function execution by any users.

The Impact of CVE-2020-10257

CVSS Score: 9.8 (Critical)
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: High
Availability Impact: High
Privileges Required: None
Scope: Unchanged
User Interaction: None

Technical Details of CVE-2020-10257

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the plugin's failure to enforce access control on a specific REST API endpoint, allowing users to execute PHP functions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: ThemeREX Addons plugin
Affected Version: Before 2020-03-09

Exploitation Mechanism

The issue stems from the plugin's handling of the sc parameter in the trx_addons_rest_get_sc_layout function, which lacks proper validation, enabling malicious PHP function execution.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the ThemeREX Addons plugin to the patched version released after 2020-03-09.
Monitor for any unauthorized PHP function execution on the affected endpoint.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review access controls on REST API endpoints.
Implement strict input validation and output encoding to prevent code injection attacks.
Educate users on secure coding practices to mitigate similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply all security patches and updates provided by the plugin vendor promptly to address known vulnerabilities.