CVE-2025-5393
CVE-2025-5393
Weakness (CWE)
CVSS Vector
v3.1- Attack Vector
- Network
- Attack Complexity
- Low
- Privileges Required
- None
- User Interaction
- None
- Scope
- Unchanged
- Confidentiality
- None
- Integrity
- High
- Availability
- High
Description
The Alone – Charity Multipurpose Non-profit WordPress Theme theme for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the alone_import_pack_restore_data() function in all versions up to, and including, 7.8.5. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to delete arbitrary files on the server, which can easily lead to remote code execution when the right file is deleted (such as wp-config.php). This was partially patched in 7.8.5 and has been fully addresses in 7.8.7.
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-5393
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
CVE ID: CVE-2025-5393 CVSS Score: 9.1
The vulnerability in the Alone – Charity Multipurpose Non-profit WordPress Theme allows for arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the alone_import_pack_restore_data() function. This vulnerability is rated with a CVSS score of 9.1, indicating a critical severity level. The high score is justified by the potential for unauthenticated attackers to delete arbitrary files on the server, which can lead to remote code execution (RCE) if critical files such as wp-config.php are targeted.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Unauthenticated Access: The vulnerability can be exploited without requiring any authentication, making it highly accessible to attackers.
- File Deletion: Attackers can delete any file on the server by exploiting the lack of proper file path validation.
Exploitation Methods:
- Direct File Deletion: An attacker can send a crafted request to the vulnerable function, specifying the path of the file they wish to delete.
- Remote Code Execution: By deleting critical files like
wp-config.php, attackers can disrupt the normal operation of the WordPress site, potentially leading to RCE if they can manipulate the environment to execute arbitrary code.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Software:
- Alone – Charity Multipurpose Non-profit WordPress Theme
Affected Versions:
- All versions up to and including 7.8.3
Platform:
- WordPress installations using the affected theme
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update the Theme: Ensure that the theme is updated to a version that addresses this vulnerability. If a patch is not yet available, consider temporarily disabling the theme or using an alternative.
- Restrict Access: Implement access controls to restrict unauthenticated access to the vulnerable function.
- Monitoring: Increase monitoring for suspicious activities, especially around file deletion attempts.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Updates: Maintain a regular update schedule for all themes and plugins.
- Security Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments.
- Backup: Ensure regular backups of critical files and databases to facilitate quick recovery in case of an attack.
5. Impact on Cybersecurity Landscape
The discovery of this vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough code reviews and security testing for third-party themes and plugins. The potential for unauthenticated attackers to achieve RCE highlights the critical nature of file path validation and access controls. This incident serves as a reminder for developers to prioritize security best practices and for organizations to implement robust vulnerability management processes.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerable Function:
alone_import_pack_restore_data()
Technical Issue:
- Insufficient file path validation allows attackers to specify arbitrary file paths for deletion.
Exploitation Steps:
- Identify the Vulnerable Endpoint: Locate the endpoint that triggers the
alone_import_pack_restore_data()function. - Craft the Request: Create a request that includes a malicious file path pointing to a critical file.
- Send the Request: Execute the request to delete the targeted file.
Detection and Response:
- Log Analysis: Review server logs for unusual file deletion activities.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implement IDS rules to detect and alert on suspicious file deletion attempts.
- Patch Management: Ensure that the theme is updated to a patched version as soon as it becomes available.
Conclusion: CVE-2025-5393 represents a significant risk to WordPress sites using the affected theme. Immediate mitigation steps include updating the theme, restricting access, and increasing monitoring. Long-term strategies should focus on regular updates, security audits, and robust backup solutions. This vulnerability highlights the need for vigilant security practices in managing third-party components.