WordPress function.php Disclosure Scanner

WordPress is a widely used content management system (CMS) leveraged by a vast number of websites worldwide due to its ease of use and extensive customization options. It is predominantly used by bloggers, businesses, and developers for building diverse types of websites, including blogs, e-commerce sites, and portfolios. WordPress allows users to install and switch among different themes, which are collections of files that work together to produce a graphical interface with an underlying unifying design. It is supported by a large community, which continuously contributes to its development and enhancement. Given its popularity, WordPress is a common target for cyber-attacks, making security critical for users. Companies and individuals rely on WordPress for site management and content publication because of its robust functionality and flexibility.

This scanner detects an information disclosure vulnerability present in various WordPress themes' functions.php files. Information disclosure vulnerabilities happen when sensitive data, such as full server file paths, is revealed inadvertently to users not authorized to see such information. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by accessing specific PHP endpoints within WordPress themes, which can then reveal internal server paths when they trigger an error response. By understanding the server's internal structure, malicious actors can orchestrate targeted attacks. This vulnerability thus represents a risk to the integrity and confidentiality of the WordPress installation. Ensuring that such information is not disclosed is crucial to maintaining the security of a WordPress site.

The vulnerability exists in the functions.php file across various WordPress themes, often triggered by certain error conditions. This file is usually integral to WordPress themes as it might contain PHP code that adds theme-specific features or customization options. The endpoints targeted by the scanner can disclose directory paths when a PHP errorlike an undefined function call or a parse erroroccurs in the theme's functions.php file. The issue arises from improper error handling and insufficient controls on publicly accessible themes' folders. Depending on how a theme is implemented, the disclosure might vary but generally includes an actionable path information that could be used in further attacks.

Once exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to gather information about the server's directory structure, potentially aiding in further penetration attacks. This can lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of data, compromising the site's confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Furthermore, the disclosed paths could provide an attacker with insight into other vulnerabilities or be combined with other exploits for more potent attacks. This exposure increases the risk of unveiling additional hidden server-side details, making it easier for attackers to plan and execute complex attack vectors against the server environment.