Description
A critical vulnerability has been identified in the XML parser component of Kinetic Innovative Technologies Sdn Bhd’s kineticPay for WooCommerce plugin, which allows the unrestricted upload of files with dangerous types, specifically enabling the upload of a web shell to a web server.
Affected Product(s)
- kineticPay for WooCommerce: From N/A through 2.0.8
Technical Details
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-52379, pertains to the kineticPay plugin for WooCommerce by Kinetic Innovative Technologies Sdn Bhd. The flaw, categorized as an arbitrarily file upload vulnerability, resides specifically in versions of the plugin from an undefined version up to 2.0.8. With a CVSSv3 score of 10.0, this vulnerability is considered critical.
The kineticPay plugin serves as an integrative toolkit for enabling WooCommerce platforms to handle multiple forms of transactions through various payment gateways. However, this feature-rich plugin contains a serious security flaw with its file upload mechanism that fails to validate the type and content of the files being uploaded. Hackers often exploit such vulnerabilities to upload malicious scripts or web shells, which can provide them with unauthorized control over the server.
In this specific case, the attackers can utilize this flaw to upload web shells to the affected web server. These web shells can execute arbitrary code, enabling attackers to manipulate the server environment, access confidential data, or even pivot to further exploits within the network.
Technical data from Mitre CVE and NVD reveal that the kineticPay plugin does not adequately sanitize or restrict file types during the upload process. Instead, it processes and saves uploaded files without proper validation, thus causing a significant security gap. Exploit kits and automated scripts can quickly leverage this flaw, making it extremely dangerous for users of the vulnerable versions.
The critical nature of this vulnerability is exacerbated by the popularity of WooCommerce plugins among WordPress users, which means a large number of websites could potentially be at imminent risk. Cyber threat intelligence indicates potential collaboration among threat actors known to exploit file upload vulnerabilities. They typically aim at e-commerce and financial service platforms to gain administrative access or plant ransomware.
Thorough investigation into the plugin’s code reveals missing or inadequate checks for file extensions, MIME types, and successful sanitization of file names, which collectively contribute to the severity of CVE-2024-52379. Thus, any malicious file could mimic a harmless file and be accepted by the server.
Hyperlinks provided in this section further Examine Patchstack, which offers a comprehensive breakdown of the issue and potential remediations.
Weakness
The primary weakness associated with this vulnerability is described by CWE-434, which represents an “Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type.” This categorization emphasizes that the attacker can upload files that inherently pose a risk, such as web shells and executables, without them being screened or rejected based on their content or type.
Impact Assessment
If exploited, this vulnerability could allow an attacker to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data or execute arbitrary code on the affected system. The attacker can manipulate server files, shell environments, execute commands remotely, escalate privileges, and carry out other malicious activities, severely compromising the privacy and security of the web server and its hosted applications.
Active Exploitation
We have observed activity from rogue actors leveraging similar vulnerabilities and now targeting this specific vulnerability in the kineticPay plugin. This ongoing exploitation suggests a coordinated effort to exploit these security gaps shortly after their disclosure.
Ransomware Association
The vulnerability has been linked to ransomware attacks, specifically targeting web servers that handle financial transactions or store sensitive customer data. Attackers exploit this vulnerability to gain initial access and plant ransomware. Once inside, they encrypt critical data and extort the users for decryption keys, causing widespread disruption and potential financial losses.
Mitigation and Resolution
We have released a patch that addresses this vulnerability. Please update to version 2.0.9 immediately. Detailed instructions for updating and additional security enhancements have been provided to ensure that all user endpoints are secure.
Recommendations
- We strongly recommend that all customers apply the latest patch as soon as possible.
- Update the kineticPay for WooCommerce plugin to version 2.0.9 or higher immediately.
- Review and audit all uploaded files prior to patching the plugin for any signs of tampering or malicious content.
- Deploy web application firewalls with rules to detect and block suspicious file uploads.
- Enable and regularly update anti-malware solutions on your web servers to automatically detect and block web shells.
- Ensure that your server is running the latest security patches for the operating system and all installed software to minimize the risk of exploitation.
- Regularly back up your data and secure the backups to ensure quick recovery in the event of a ransomware attack.
- Conduct detailed forensic scans if any suspicious activity is detected, and consider consulting with cybersecurity professionals for thorough investigations.
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