WordPress Wordfence Local File Inclusion Scanner

WordPress is a widely used content management system that powers a significant portion of the internet's websites. It is utilized by bloggers, businesses, and large organizations to create and manage their online content. The Wordfence plugin for WordPress adds security features, helping users protect their sites from various attacks. However, vulnerabilities can occasionally be present in plugins such as Wordfence, putting user websites at risk. Users should keep their plugins updated to mitigate potential threats. Regular scanning for vulnerabilities can help ensure the security of WordPress sites.

Local File Inclusion (LFI) is a vulnerability that allows an attacker to include files from the host server in the web application's response. By exploiting LFI, attackers can gain unauthorized access to sensitive information stored on the server. This vulnerability typically arises from improper input validation or insufficient checks on user-supplied input. Attackers can use LFI for information disclosure, leading to further attacks such as privilege escalation or remote code execution. It is crucial to patch these vulnerabilities to prevent exploitation attempts. Identifying and fixing LFI vulnerabilities is part of secure software development practices.

The Local File Inclusion vulnerability was identified in the Wordfence plugin for WordPress, specifically in version 7.4.5. Attackers can include files by manipulating the 'file' parameter in a request sent to the vulnerable endpoint. For example, targeting the path '/wp-content/plugins/wordfence/lib/wordfenceClass.php' and modifying the 'file' parameter lets the attacker access sensitive files like '/etc/passwd'. By successfully exploiting this vulnerability, attackers gain access to sensitive system information. Securing input validation and restricting file paths can help address this security flaw. Developers should follow best practices to avoid such vulnerabilities.

Once the Local File Inclusion vulnerability in Wordfence is exploited, attackers can retrieve sensitive data, including credentials or configuration files. The information obtained can facilitate further attacks, such as privilege escalation or even server compromise. Persistent exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to user content, data breaches, or service outages. Preventing such exploits is essential to maintaining the integrity of user information and the stability of services. Security measures are essential to safeguard against potential malicious activities resulting from LFI vulnerabilities.

REFERENCES

• https://www.exploit-db.com/exploits/48061
• https://www.nmmapper.com/st/exploitdetails/48061/42367/wordpress-plugin-wordfence745-local-file-disclosure/