WordPress (CMS) WP-Filemanager libfile.php Arbitrary File Download

There is an arbitrary file download vulnerability in the WordPress plugin WP-Filemanager. An attacker can request the download of a file residing in the web server root directory, such as wp-config.php. The resulting attack affects the confidentiality of the target server.

Exploitation

Stages

1. A remote unauthenticated attacker sends a HTTP request to libfile.php, requesting the download of a file present in the web server root directory, such as wp-config.php.
2. The server responds with the contents of the file.

Prerequisites

In the plugin settings, “allow downloads” must be enabled.

Vulnerability Description

There is an arbitrary file download vulnerability in the WordPress plugin WP-Filemanager. The vulnerability resides within the libfile.php which does not carry out checks on the level of authentication of the user requesting the file. An attacker can request the download of a file residing in the web server root directory, such as wp-config.php. The resulting attack affects the confidentiality of the target server.

Alert Logic Coverage

Alert Logic® has evaluated its customer base for exposure to the exploit and has developed signatures for mitigating the threat depending on the security service in place.

The Network-Based Intrusion Detection System (IDS) has been updated with the new signatures for this exploit when detected via Alert Logic Threat Manager™. If this signature is detected, an incident is generated in the Alert Logic console.

Recommendations for Mitigation

Upgrade to a non-vulnerable version of the plugin to mitigate vulnerability.