CVE-2020-36719 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE-2020-36719 article provides insights into a vulnerability in the ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme, allowing arbitrary plugin installation, activation, and deactivation.

Understanding CVE-2020-36719

This CVE-2020-36719 vulnerability affects the ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme, potentially enabling unauthenticated attackers to manipulate plugins.

What is CVE-2020-36719?

The ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme for WordPress is susceptible to Arbitrary Plugin Installation, Activation, and Deactivation in versions prior to 2.6.1 due to a missing capability check on the lp_cc_addons_actions function.

The Impact of CVE-2020-36719

This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to arbitrarily install, activate, and deactivate any plugin, posing a significant security risk to affected systems.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-36719

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a missing capability check on the lp_cc_addons_actions function in ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme, enabling unauthorized plugin manipulation.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: n/a
Product: ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme
Versions Affected: Before 2.6.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The absence of proper capability verification on the lp_cc_addons_actions function allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the vulnerability, leading to arbitrary plugin installation, activation, and deactivation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Immediate Steps to Take

Update ListingPro - WordPress Directory & Listing Theme to version 2.6.1 or newer.
Monitor for any unauthorized plugin installations or activations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review plugin capabilities and permissions.
Implement strong authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly and keep software up to date to mitigate the risk of exploitation.