CVE-2024-4098: Shariff Wrapper WordPress Plugin RCE Flaw

CVE-2024-4098 Overview

The Shariff Wrapper plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion (LFI) in versions up to, and including, 4.6.13 via the shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to include and execute arbitrary files on the server. As a result, attackers can execute any PHP code present in those files, potentially bypassing access controls, obtaining sensitive data, or achieving code execution in cases where images and other “safe” file types can be uploaded and included.

Critical Impact
This vulnerability has a critical impact due to its potential to allow arbitrary code execution and sensitive data exposure via Local File Inclusion.

Affected Products

datenverwurstungszentrale shariff_wrapper

Discovery Timeline

2024-06-20T07:15:41.933 - CVE CVE-2024-4098 published to NVD
2025-05-09T15:03:58.697 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-4098

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability is caused by insufficient validation in the shariff3uu_fetch_sharecounts function, which fails to properly sanitize input paths. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the path to include files from the server's file system, leading to Local File Inclusion attacks.

Root Cause

The root cause of the vulnerability is improper input validation that allows file paths to be manipulated and used in unauthorized ways, leading to potential inclusion of sensitive and executable files.

Attack Vector

The attack vector is network-based, where unauthenticated attackers can exploit the vulnerability remotely over the network by sending crafted requests to manipulate the file inclusion process.

php

// Example exploitation code (sanitized)
$path = $_GET['file'];
include($path . '.php');

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-4098

Indicators of Compromise

Unexpected file execution logs
Unauthorized file accesses
Suspicious PHP error logs indicating file inclusion

Detection Strategies

Network traffic analysis focusing on HTTP requests with suspicious file paths can help detect attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Using web application firewalls (WAF) configured to detect LFI patterns can also aid in identifying potential exploits.

Monitoring Recommendations

Regularly monitor server logs for unusual access to PHP files or requests with suspicious path parameters. Implement continuous scanning for vulnerable endpoints and use behavioral detection tools to identify anomalies in server behavior.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-4098

Immediate Actions Required

Upgrade to the latest version of Shariff Wrapper plugin
Implement input validation and sanitation to ensure paths are properly handled
Use a WAF to block known LFI patterns

Patch Information

The vendor, Datenverwurstungszentrale, has released a patch which can be found at: https://plugins.trac.wordpress.org/changeset/3103137

Workarounds

Until a patch can be applied, restrict PHP file execution and ensure that file uploads are vetted and sanitized.

bash

# Configuration example
# Restrict access to the PHP files using .htaccess
<FilesMatch "\.php$">
    SetHandler "None"
    Header set Content-Type "text/plain"
</FilesMatch>