WordPress Contact Form Information Disclosure Scanner

The WordPress Contact Form plugin is a popular tool used by website administrators to manage contact forms on WordPress websites. It is commonly used by website owners and developers to gather user inquiries and manage contact requests seamlessly. The plugin integrates with various CRM systems to streamline data processing, supporting business communication functions. It is widely adopted across numerous WordPress-powered sites, enabling non-technical users to customize contact forms without extensive coding knowledge. The plugin's flexibility and ease of use make it an essential component for many website setups seeking to enhance user interaction. This reliance on the plugin underscores the importance of maintaining its security against vulnerabilities.

Information Disclosure can occur when sensitive data is exposed through inappropriate handling of errors or permissions. It is a vulnerability that might allow attackers to gain access to confidential information stored on the server. This vulnerability is critical in the context of web applications where data providers are expected to protect user information diligently. Here, the vulnerability arises from publicly accessible files and insufficiently protected PHP error messages. Attackers can exploit this exposure to gather sensitive path information unintentionally revealed by the server, contributing to the risk of further targeted attacks. Ensuring robust protection against such disclosures is essential to safeguard user privacy and maintain integrity.

Technically, the vulnerability involves accessing plugin files without the expected ABSPATH protection. The publicly exposed PHP files, when accessed directly, result in error messages that disclose server path information. Specific endpoints, like 'exportToJSON.php' within the Contact Form plugin directories, are targeted to identify instances where such information disclosure might occur. The vulnerability is characterized by the return of specific HTTP status codes and the presence of particular error messages in response bodies. The presence of directory paths or error stack traces indicates a successful exploitation, potentially exposing the application to further vulnerabilities.

Should this vulnerability be exploited by malicious actors, potential effects include unauthorized acquisition of server paths and details leading to targeted attacks on the server. Attackers could leverage disclosed path information to plan more sophisticated intrusion attempts, potentially exploiting other existing vulnerabilities. The exposure might also assist in identifying further misconfigurations within the application or infrastructure. Compromised security due to information disclosure undermines user trust and can lead to financial and reputational damage. Effective mitigation of these risks involves addressing the root causes of the vulnerability and improving protective measures.

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