WordPress Plugin reCaptcha by BestWebSoft Full Path Disclosure Scanner

WordPress Plugin reCaptcha by BestWebSoft is a widely used security plugin that helps protect websites from spam and abuse using CAPTCHA technology. It is particularly popular among WordPress administrators and website owners who are looking to enhance their site's security without compromising user experience. The plugin is easily integrated into various forms on a WordPress site to ensure only humans can interact with them. Alongside security features, it provides customizable CAPTCHA forms to blend seamlessly into the website's design. This plugin is valued for its simplicity and effectiveness in stopping spam bots and malicious software. However, its rapid development cycles sometimes introduce security oversights, such as Full Path Disclosure vulnerabilities.

Full Path Disclosure (FPD) is a vulnerability where sensitive file path information on the server is revealed due to improper configuration or error handling in web applications. In the context of WordPress Plugin reCaptcha by BestWebSoft, this exposure occurs because specific plugin files are accessible without proper safeguards. Hackers can exploit this to gather information about the server structure, aiding in the crafting of more targeted attacks against the web application. FPD is a low-severity issue but can work in conjunction with other vulnerabilities to present a significant risk. The issue arises when error messages reveal the file path upon incorrect access, potentially offering insights into the server's directory structure. Website operators should be aware of this exposure to prevent information leakage that could aid attackers.

The vulnerability in the WordPress Plugin reCaptcha by BestWebSoft involves the public accessibility of certain internal plugin files. When an attacker attempts to access these files directly, the server returns an error message that includes the full server path. This typically occurs when improperly handled PHP errors reveal critical path information. The endpoint /wp-content/plugins/google-captcha/includes/captcha-for-formidable.php is particularly vulnerable if accessed without appropriate protections like ABSPATH. By understanding which files are improperly accessible, attackers gain a clearer picture of the system's layout, a crucial advantage for launching further intrusions.

Exploitation of this Full Path Disclosure vulnerability could lead to more profound security implications if attackers leverage the disclosed server paths to assist in further compromising the site. Malicious actors could combine this knowledge with other attacks, like SQL Injection or Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), providing them the detailed environmental information necessary to navigate and explore other potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, full path disclosure might help attackers in identifying software versions or configurations that are exploitable using known vulnerabilities. Website security administrators need to address these informational leaks to augment their site's overall security posture.

REFERENCES

• https://wordpress.org/plugins/google-captcha/