Description
The Frontend Admin by DynamiApps plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of arbitrary WordPress options in all versions up to, and including, 3.28.20. This is due to insufficient capability checks and input validation in the ActionOptions::run() save handler. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to modify critical WordPress options such as users_can_register, default_role, and admin_email via submitting crafted form data to public frontend forms.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-200979
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability identified in the Frontend Admin by DynamiApps plugin for WordPress allows unauthenticated attackers to modify critical WordPress options. This is due to insufficient capability checks and input validation in the ActionOptions::run() save handler. The severity of this vulnerability is rated with a CVSS Base Score of 9.8, which is considered critical.
CVSS Vector Breakdown:
- AV:N (Network): The vulnerability is exploitable over the network.
- AC:L (Low): The attack complexity is low, meaning it does not require specialized conditions.
- PR:N (None): No privileges are required to exploit the vulnerability.
- UI:N (None): No user interaction is required.
- S:U (Unchanged): The scope of the vulnerability does not change.
- C:H (High): Confidentiality impact is high.
- I:H (High): Integrity impact is high.
- A:H (High): Availability impact is high.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Unauthenticated Access: Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without needing to authenticate.
- Public Frontend Forms: The vulnerability can be triggered by submitting crafted form data to public frontend forms.
Exploitation Methods:
- Crafted Form Data: Attackers can submit specially crafted form data to modify critical WordPress options such as
users_can_register,default_role, andadmin_email. - Automated Scripts: Attackers can use automated scripts to exploit this vulnerability en masse, targeting multiple WordPress sites using the vulnerable plugin.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Software:
- Frontend Admin by DynamiApps Plugin for WordPress
Affected Versions:
- All versions up to and including 3.28.20
Vendor:
- shabti
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update the Plugin: Ensure that the Frontend Admin by DynamiApps plugin is updated to a version higher than 3.28.20.
- Disable the Plugin: If an update is not immediately available, consider disabling the plugin until a patched version is released.
Long-Term Mitigation:
- Regular Updates: Implement a regular update schedule for all plugins and themes.
- Input Validation: Ensure that all input data is properly validated and sanitized.
- Capability Checks: Implement robust capability checks to prevent unauthorized access.
- Monitoring: Use security monitoring tools to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to the European cybersecurity landscape, particularly for organizations and individuals using WordPress with the affected plugin. The potential for unauthorized modification of critical WordPress options can lead to severe security breaches, including unauthorized access, data theft, and website defacement. This underscores the importance of timely updates and robust security practices in maintaining the integrity of web applications.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Insufficient Capability Checks: The
ActionOptions::run()save handler does not adequately check user capabilities, allowing unauthenticated users to modify options. - Input Validation: The handler does not properly validate input data, making it susceptible to crafted form submissions.
Detection and Response:
- Log Analysis: Monitor logs for unusual form submissions and modifications to critical WordPress options.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implement IDS to detect and alert on suspicious activities related to form submissions.
- Patch Management: Ensure that all WordPress plugins and themes are regularly updated and patched.
References:
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and implementing robust security measures, organizations can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and data breaches, thereby enhancing their overall cybersecurity posture.