WordPress Data Source for Contact Form 7 Security Misconfiguration Scanner

The WordPress Data Source for Contact Form 7 plugin is widely used in websites built on WordPress to facilitate efficient data collection and transfer through contact forms. It is often implemented by web developers and site administrators to enhance the functionality of contact forms on WordPress sites. The plugin is employed in various sectors, from small business sites to large-scale enterprise websites, due to its ease of integration and customization. However, despite its utility, the plugin may expose sensitive server path information if not properly configured. The vulnerability arises when files in the plugin are publicly accessible without ABSPATH protection, leading to exposure through PHP error messages. Hence, administrators need to be vigilant in implementing proper access controls to prevent any unauthorized access.

Security Misconfiguration in the WordPress Data Source for Contact Form 7 plugin occurs when files are left publicly accessible without proper protection mechanisms. This misconfiguration can lead to the exposure of server path information through PHP error messages. Attackers could exploit such a misconfiguration to gather insights into the server's structure and potentially exploit other vulnerabilities. Ensuring proper configuration and access control measures are essential in mitigating such vulnerabilities. Monitoring of server configurations and regular updates of the WordPress and its plugins are recommended to avoid these potential security risks. Web administrators should be educated and proactive in managing and configuring these plugins securely.

The vulnerability details indicate that the plugin files are susceptible to exposure through direct access. Specific PHP error messages that include "Fatal error" or "Uncaught Error" may reveal sensitive server path information if the files are accessed without ABSPATH protection. When combined with status codes 200 or 500, and the presence of specific keywords like "cf7-data-source" in the response body, this vulnerability can be triggered. Attackers could leverage these details to understand server configurations and identify further exploitable weaknesses. The use of proper access restrictions, such as ABSPATH protection, is crucial in securing the server from unauthorized file exposure. Additionally, administrators should routinely check and rectify any misconfigurations to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to the leakage of sensitive server path details, aiding attackers in executing more targeted attacks. Disclosure of server paths can increase the risk of further exploitation by making it easier for attackers to locate and access other sensitive files. It could inadvertently provide a roadmap for identifying and exploiting additional vulnerabilities within the server's structure. Attacks leveraging such information could include unauthorized access, data theft, or server exploitation using known vulnerabilities in other exposed files or plugins. To mitigate these risks, appropriate file access restrictions and regular monitoring of server logs and configurations are essential.

REFERENCES

• https://wordpress.org/plugins/cf7-data-source/