The Admin Word Count Column plugin is a popular WordPress tool used to track the number of words in a post or page. This plugin can be used to keep track of the word count of articles, blog posts, and other written content displayed on a WordPress website. It's an essential tool for bloggers, journalists, and writers who want to produce SEO-friendly articles that comply with word count guidelines.
Unfortunately, this plugin has recently been discovered to have a vulnerability known as CVE-2022-1390. This vulnerability occurs due to a lack of validation of the path parameter in the plugin's readfile() function. As a result, attackers can use the null byte technique to read any arbitrary file on a server running an older version of PHP susceptible to the vulnerability. This can lead to RCE by using Phar Deserialization technique, presenting a significant risk for website owners.
When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to arbitrary file access and remote code execution, potentially allowing an attacker to steal sensitive data or take over a site's entire infrastructure. This could expose critical information such as user login credentials, financial data, and confidential company information, leading to disastrous consequences for businesses and individuals alike.
In conclusion, the Admin Word Count Column WordPress plugin has a significant vulnerability that can lead to severe consequences for website owners. Through the proactive implementation of the precautions outlined above, website owners and WordPress administrators can protect themselves against this vulnerability. By using our s4e.io platform pro features, you can quickly identify vulnerabilities in your digital assets and receive actionable advice about improving your website's cybersecurity.
REFERENCES
To protect against this vulnerability, website owners should take the following precautions:
- Update the plugin to the latest version immediately to close off the vulnerability.
- Always keep software up to date whenever possible as this is a fundamental cybersecurity requirement to avoid vulnerabilities.
- Implement a web application firewall (WAF) that blocks potential attacks from reaching your server.
- Use strong passwords that include a combination of uppercase and lowercase letters, numbers, and special characters.
- Disable file editing in your WordPress admin, preventing anyone from modifying the files on your server via the WordPress administrative dashboard.
Get AI-powered remediation steps tailored to your asset.
Try AI Solutions →