WordPress Newsletter Scanner

The WordPress Newsletter plugin is an add-on for the WordPress Content Management System (CMS), utilized by website administrators to manage newsletters and email subscriptions. It is popular amongst businesses and bloggers for engaging their audiences via newsletters. Despite its effectiveness, the plugin requires regular updates and maintenance to ensure compatibility and security. System administrators and web developers oversee its configuration and use to avoid potential security pitfalls. Its integration with WordPress means its security flaws can have repercussions for the broader WordPress ecosystem. This makes security oversight a top priority for those using or managing the plugin.

The Log Exposure vulnerability in the WordPress Newsletter plugin allows unauthorized individuals to access potentially sensitive information from exposed log files. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it leaves log files unprotected, making it possible for attackers to extract sensitive error logs. These logs can contain critical information such as errors, warnings, or backend operational data. The exposure risk is prevalent in all versions up to 4.9.5, meaning a significant range of installations are potentially vulnerable. When exploited, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data access, impacting system confidentiality.

The technical details of the vulnerability revolve around the exposed paths accessible via the HTTP GET method. Endpoints such as '/wp-content/plugins/newsletter/error_log' and '/wp-content/plugins/newsletter/classes/Newsletter/Logs.php' are key entry points. Attackers can exploit these endpoints to gain unauthorized access to the content of log files. The presence of logging data such as PHP Fatal errors, warnings, or notices can be indicators of vulnerability. The use of regex patterns to detect time stamps and error message components is a part of its detection strategy. By ensuring protection for these endpoints, system administrators can mitigate the risk of exposure.

Exploitation of this vulnerability could result in severe consequences such as unauthorized data access, service disruption, or the exposure of sensitive operational data. Attackers may leverage exposed information to conduct further attacks, including penetration into more secure areas of an application or network. This can lead to compromised data integrity, unauthorized access to user information, and potential financial or reputational damage for affected entities. System administrators need to secure exposed files and monitor access to mitigate these risks actively.

REFERENCES

• https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/334e02e9-fcbd-47fe-b7ab-079dd525b396/