CVE-2024-50477 Scanner

The WordPress Stacks Mobile App Builder is commonly used by businesses and developers to create and manage mobile applications that integrate seamlessly with WordPress websites. This plugin allows users to build mobile apps without coding, making it popular among non-technical users. It is widely deployed due to its ease of use and integration with WordPress, supporting a variety of app features such as push notifications and real-time updates. Organizations often leverage this tool to extend their digital reach, enhance user engagement, and streamline app-building processes. By providing both free and premium versions, it caters to a broad range of users from independent bloggers to large enterprises. This makes understanding and ensuring the security of the plugin crucial for maintaining the integrity of the apps created.

Authentication Bypass vulnerabilities occur when an attacker is able to bypass or circumvent the application's authentication process. In the case of the Stacks Mobile App Builder for WordPress, this vulnerability allows attackers to impersonate arbitrary users due to improper handling of query parameters. Such vulnerabilities can result in unauthorized access to user accounts, exposing sensitive information or allowing malicious activities to be carried out under the guise of legitimate users. The critical nature of this vulnerability emphasizes the importance of proper authentication mechanisms in place. Understanding how to mitigate these issues is vital for system administrators and developers using the plugin. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of continuously updating and monitoring plugins for new security patches.

The vulnerability within the Stacks Mobile App Builder is exploited through improper handling of query parameters, which can be manipulated to gain unauthorized access. Specifically, the endpoint '/?mobile_co=1&uid=1' found in the plugin's code can be leveraged to bypass authentication controls, allowing attackers to access user accounts without valid credentials. The attacker can use specifically crafted HTTP requests to exploit this vulnerability, resulting in unauthorized access to WordPress administrative interfaces such as the Dashboard, Plugins, and Edit Profile pages. The response status code of 200 with relevant content indicators like "Dashboard" confirms the successful exploitation. The heart of this issue lies in the lack of stringent checks on query parameters, pointing to a serious flaw in the plugin's authentication mechanism.

When exploited, this vulnerability could lead to significant security breaches, allowing attackers to execute a wide range of malicious activities as privileged users. This includes unauthorized modification of website content, installation of rogue plugins or malware, and potential data theft. The impersonation of users could facilitate further attacks on connected systems or networks, compounding potential impacts. Additionally, the organization's reputation may be severely damaged due to loss of trust from users affected by these unauthorized activities. Mitigating the effects of such exploitation requires immediate action, such as patching the vulnerability, monitoring for suspicious activities, and ensuring robust security practices.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/stealthcopter/wordpress-hacking/blob/main/reports/stacks-mobile-app-builder-priv-esc/stacks-mobile-app-builder-priv-esc.md
• https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/stacks-mobile-app-builder/stacks-mobile-app-builder-523-authentication-bypass-via-account-takeover
• https://patchstack.com/database/vulnerability/stacks-mobile-app-builder/wordpress-stacks-mobile-app-builder-plugin-5-2-3-account-takeover-vulnerability?_s_id=cve
• https://github.com/RandomRobbieBF/CVE-2024-50477