CVE-2024-11635 Overview
CVE-2024-11635 is a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability affecting the WordPress File Upload plugin for WordPress. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 4.24.12 and stems from improper handling of the wfu_ABSPATH cookie parameter. This critical flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server, potentially leading to complete system compromise.
Critical Impact
Unauthenticated attackers can achieve remote code execution on vulnerable WordPress installations, enabling full server compromise without requiring any authentication or user interaction.
Affected Products
- WordPress File Upload plugin versions up to and including 4.24.12
- Iptanus WordPress File Upload (all vulnerable versions)
- WordPress sites using the affected plugin versions
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-01-08 - CVE-2024-11635 published to NVD
- 2025-03-13 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-11635
Vulnerability Analysis
This vulnerability is classified as Code Injection (CWE-94), specifically enabling Remote Code Execution through manipulation of the wfu_ABSPATH cookie parameter. The flaw allows attackers to inject and execute malicious code on the server without any authentication requirements.
The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely over the network with low attack complexity. No privileges or user interaction are required for successful exploitation, making it an attractive target for automated attacks. The impact is severe across all three security dimensions—confidentiality, integrity, and availability—as successful exploitation grants attackers the ability to read sensitive data, modify server configurations, and potentially render the system unavailable.
Root Cause
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in improper input validation and sanitization of the wfu_ABSPATH cookie parameter within the WordPress File Upload plugin. The plugin fails to adequately validate user-controlled input before using it in security-sensitive operations, allowing attackers to manipulate the application's execution path and inject malicious code.
The vulnerable code can be examined in the WordPress Plugin PHP File. The lack of proper input filtering on the cookie parameter creates a direct code injection vector that bypasses intended security controls.
Attack Vector
The attack leverages the network-accessible nature of WordPress installations. An attacker can craft a malicious HTTP request containing a specially crafted wfu_ABSPATH cookie value. When the vulnerable plugin processes this request, it fails to properly sanitize the cookie parameter, allowing the injected code to execute within the server's PHP environment.
The attack does not require any form of authentication, making it exploitable by any remote attacker who can reach the WordPress installation. The vulnerability can be triggered through standard HTTP requests to the vulnerable endpoint, requiring no special conditions or complex exploitation techniques.
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-11635
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual HTTP requests containing suspicious wfu_ABSPATH cookie values targeting WordPress upload functionality
- Unexpected file modifications or new files appearing in WordPress directories
- Anomalous outbound network connections from the web server
- PHP error logs showing unusual code execution attempts or path manipulation errors
Detection Strategies
- Monitor web server access logs for requests to wfu_file_downloader.php with abnormal cookie parameters
- Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block cookie-based code injection attempts
- Deploy file integrity monitoring on WordPress installation directories to detect unauthorized changes
- Review PHP error logs for evidence of code injection or path traversal attempts
Monitoring Recommendations
- Enable detailed logging for all requests to WordPress plugin endpoints
- Configure alerts for requests containing suspicious patterns in cookie parameters
- Implement real-time monitoring of server processes spawned by the web server
- Regularly audit installed WordPress plugins and their versions against known vulnerability databases
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-11635
Immediate Actions Required
- Update the WordPress File Upload plugin to the latest patched version immediately
- If immediate patching is not possible, disable or remove the WordPress File Upload plugin temporarily
- Review server logs for any evidence of exploitation attempts
- Conduct a security assessment of the WordPress installation for signs of compromise
Patch Information
The vulnerability affects all versions of the WordPress File Upload plugin up to and including version 4.24.12. Site administrators should update to the latest available version that addresses this vulnerability. Additional details are available in the Wordfence Vulnerability Report.
Workarounds
- Disable the WordPress File Upload plugin until a patch can be applied
- Implement WAF rules to block requests with suspicious cookie parameters targeting the vulnerable endpoint
- Restrict access to the WordPress admin and plugin directories using server-level access controls
- Consider temporarily removing the plugin if file upload functionality is not critical to operations
# WordPress CLI command to deactivate the vulnerable plugin
wp plugin deactivate wp-file-upload
# Verify plugin status
wp plugin list --status=active | grep file-upload
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
