CVE-2021-24816 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Phoenix Media Rename WordPress plugin before version 3.4.4 is susceptible to an arbitrary file renaming vulnerability due to missing capability checks in its AJAX action. This could allow users with Author roles to rename any uploaded media files, even those they do not own.

Understanding CVE-2021-24816

This CVE highlights a security issue in the Phoenix Media Rename plugin that could be exploited by users with Author privileges to rename media files without proper authorization.

What is CVE-2021-24816?

The Phoenix Media Rename WordPress plugin before 3.4.4 lacks capability checks in its AJAX action, enabling unauthorized renaming of uploaded media files by users with Author roles.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24816

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized renaming of media files, potentially causing confusion and disrupting the organization of uploaded content on affected WordPress sites.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24816

This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability, including affected systems, exploitation mechanism, and ways to mitigate the risk.

Vulnerability Description

The Phoenix Media Rename plugin allows users with Author privileges to rename any uploaded media file without proper ownership verification, leading to unauthorized access and modifications.

Affected Systems and Versions

Phoenix Media Rename versions prior to 3.4.4 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing WordPress sites to the risk of unauthorized file renaming.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the missing capability checks in the phoenix_media_rename AJAX action, users with Author roles can exploit this vulnerability to rename media files without ownership validation.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-24816, immediate steps should be taken to secure WordPress sites and prevent unauthorized file renaming.

Immediate Steps to Take

Administrators are advised to update the Phoenix Media Rename plugin to version 3.4.4 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability and bolster site security.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing least privilege access controls, regularly monitoring for unauthorized activities, and educating users on secure file management practices can enhance long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches, staying informed about plugin updates, and conducting security audits are essential for safeguarding WordPress sites against potential vulnerabilities.