CVE-2022-2431 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A high-severity CVE-2022-2431 related to the Download Manager plugin for WordPress has been identified due to an authenticated arbitrary file deletion vulnerability affecting versions up to, and including 3.2.50.

Understanding CVE-2022-2431

This CVE involves a security vulnerability in the Download Manager plugin for WordPress that could allow contributor level users and above to delete arbitrary files on the server.

What is CVE-2022-2431?

The vulnerability in Download Manager plugin versions up to 3.2.50 allows authenticated users to delete arbitrary files due to insufficient file type and path validation, potentially leading to serious consequences, including remote code execution.

The Impact of CVE-2022-2431

The impact of CVE-2022-2431 is rated as high severity (CVSS base score of 8.1), with low complexity for attackers and the ability to cause high availability and integrity impacts. The vulnerability does not require user interaction and does not compromise confidentiality.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-2431

The vulnerability arises from a lack of proper file type and path validation in the 'deleteFiles()' function within the ~/Admin/Menu/Packages.php file. This flaw allows users to specify an arbitrary file path via the 'file[files]' parameter during download post creation, leading to file deletion upon post deletion.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability enables contributor level users and above to supply arbitrary file paths, posing a risk of deleting critical files like /wp-config.php, enabling attackers to execute remote code on the compromised server.

Affected Systems and Versions

Download Manager plugin versions up to and including 3.2.50 are affected by this vulnerability, potentially impacting WordPress websites that utilize this plugin.

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating the 'file[files]' parameter during download post creation and subsequent deletion, attackers can trigger the deletion of arbitrary files on the server, leading to a possible compromise.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-2431, immediate steps must be taken to secure affected systems and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Download Manager plugin to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor user activities to detect any suspicious behavior related to file deletion.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit file permissions and access controls within the WordPress environment.
Educate users on secure usage of plugins to prevent unauthorized file deletions.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for the Download Manager plugin and promptly apply patches to mitigate vulnerabilities.