Description
The Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution in versions 0.9.0.5 through 0.9.1.1 via the prepare_form() function. This is due to the function accepting user input and then passing that through call_user_func_array(). This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server, which can be leveraged to inject backdoors or create new administrative user accounts.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-200730
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability identified in the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin for WordPress (EUVD-2025-200730) is a Remote Code Execution (RCE) flaw. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server, which is extremely severe. The CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) base score of 9.8 indicates a critical vulnerability. The CVSS vector CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H breaks down as follows:
- AV:N (Attack Vector: Network): The vulnerability is exploitable over the network.
- AC:L (Attack Complexity: Low): The attack requires minimal skill or resources.
- PR:N (Privileges Required: None): No privileges are required to exploit the vulnerability.
- UI:N (User Interaction: None): No user interaction is required.
- S:U (Scope: Unchanged): The vulnerability does not change the security scope.
- C:H (Confidentiality: High): The vulnerability has a high impact on confidentiality.
- I:H (Integrity: High): The vulnerability has a high impact on integrity.
- A:H (Availability: High): The vulnerability has a high impact on availability.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vector involves exploiting the prepare_form() function, which accepts user input and passes it through call_user_func_array(). This function can be manipulated to execute arbitrary code. Potential exploitation methods include:
- Injecting Malicious Code: Attackers can inject malicious code through crafted input, leading to arbitrary code execution.
- Creating Backdoors: Attackers can inject backdoors to maintain persistent access to the server.
- Creating Administrative Accounts: Attackers can create new administrative user accounts to gain full control over the WordPress installation.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects versions 0.9.0.5 through 0.9.1.1 of the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin for WordPress. Any WordPress site using these versions of the plugin is at risk.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
To mitigate this vulnerability, the following steps are recommended:
- Update the Plugin: Immediately update the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin to a version that addresses this vulnerability.
- Disable the Plugin: If an update is not available, consider disabling the plugin until a patched version is released.
- Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Implement monitoring to detect any unusual activity that may indicate an exploitation attempt.
- Apply Security Patches: Ensure that all WordPress core files, themes, and plugins are up to date with the latest security patches.
- Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Use WAFs to block known attack patterns and provide an additional layer of security.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The impact of this vulnerability on the European cybersecurity landscape is significant. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin, many European websites could be at risk. Successful exploitation could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential disruption of services, affecting both businesses and individuals.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
For security professionals, the following technical details are pertinent:
- Vulnerable Function: The
prepare_form()function is the primary point of vulnerability. It accepts user input and passes it throughcall_user_func_array(), which can be exploited for RCE. - Exploitation: The exploitation involves crafting input that can be executed as code. This can be achieved through various methods, including injecting PHP code or using other scripting languages supported by the server.
- Detection: To detect potential exploitation, monitor for unusual network traffic, unexpected file modifications, and the creation of new user accounts.
- Response: In case of an exploitation, follow incident response procedures, including isolating affected systems, conducting a thorough investigation, and applying necessary patches and updates.
Conclusion
The vulnerability in the Advanced Custom Fields: Extended plugin for WordPress (EUVD-2025-200730) is critical and requires immediate attention. Organizations should prioritize updating the plugin and implementing additional security measures to protect against potential exploitation. The impact on the European cybersecurity landscape underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring and prompt response to such vulnerabilities.