CNVD-2014-05548 Scanner

WordPress is a widely used content management system (CMS) that powers a significant portion of the web, offering users the ability to build and manage websites and blogs. It is popular among individuals, bloggers, and businesses due to its flexibility and extensive plugin ecosystem. The Antioch theme for WordPress, like many other themes, provides users with the capability to enhance the visual appeal and functionality of their websites. Themes in WordPress are essential for defining the aesthetic elements and layout of a website, facilitating user engagement and content presentation. Users of WordPress themes often seek to create unique and visually appealing websites without extensive technical knowledge. The WordPress community, including theme developers and users, continuously contributes to the platform's growth by creating and sharing customizations.

Arbitrary file download vulnerabilities are critical security issues that allow attackers to download files from a server without authorization. These vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on a server, compromising the security of user data. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability may gain access to files such as configuration files, databases, or other sensitive documents, depending on the server's file hierarchy and permissions. The vulnerability in this scenario is due to the improper handling of file requests, allowing for directory traversal and the downloading of arbitrary files. Maintaining file permissions and validating input parameters are essential to safeguarding against such vulnerabilities. Arbitrary file download vulnerabilities require prompt remediation to prevent unauthorized data exposure.

The WordPress Antioch Theme has a vulnerability in its 'download.php' script that permits arbitrary file downloads. The endpoint in question, 'download.php', mishandles file request parameters, leading to unauthorized file access via directory traversal techniques. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting special URLs that reference sensitive files outside the allowed directory structure. The vulnerability becomes exploitable if user inputs are not properly sanitized or validated, particularly when referencing file paths. Malicious actors may download files by manipulating the 'file' parameter with payloads like '../../../../../wp-config.php'. The vulnerability highlights the need for securing server-side file access and strict validation of user inputs.

If exploited, this arbitrary file download vulnerability can have severe consequences for affected WordPress sites. Attackers may retrieve sensitive information, including database credentials, server configurations, and user data, depending on file access permissions. This could potentially lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and further compromise of the web application's integrity. Successful exploitation might facilitate other forms of attacks, such as remote code execution or privilege escalation, depending on what files are accessible. Mitigating this vulnerability is crucial to protect user data and prevent an attacker from gaining deeper access to the underlying server. Website administrators must act swiftly to apply patches or implement appropriate security measures.