Description
The Madara - Core plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the wp_manga_delete_zip() function in all versions up to, and including, 2.2.3. 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).
EPSS Score:
1%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-21768
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability in the Madara - Core plugin for WordPress, identified as EUVD-2025-21768 (CVE-2025-7712), is classified as an arbitrary file deletion vulnerability. This issue arises due to insufficient file path validation in the wp_manga_delete_zip() function, affecting all versions up to and including 2.2.3. The severity of this vulnerability is rated with a CVSS Base Score of 9.1, indicating a critical risk.
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 is unchanged, meaning the vulnerability does not affect other components.
- C:N (None): There is no confidentiality impact.
- I:H (High): There is a high integrity impact.
- A:H (High): There is a high availability impact.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Unauthenticated Access: Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without needing any authentication, making it highly accessible.
- Arbitrary File Deletion: By manipulating the file path input, attackers can delete any file on the server.
- Remote Code Execution (RCE): Deleting critical files like
wp-config.phpcan lead to RCE, as the server may execute malicious code when attempting to reload or reconfigure.
Exploitation Methods:
- Crafted Requests: Attackers can send specially crafted HTTP requests to the vulnerable endpoint, targeting the
wp_manga_delete_zip()function with malicious file paths. - Automated Scripts: Exploitation can be automated using scripts that systematically delete key files, leading to server instability or RCE.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Software:
- Madara - Core Plugin for WordPress: All versions up to and including 2.2.3.
Affected Systems:
- WordPress Websites: Any WordPress installation using the vulnerable versions of the Madara - Core plugin.
- Web Servers: Servers hosting WordPress sites with the affected plugin, potentially leading to broader server compromises.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update Plugin: Immediately update the Madara - Core plugin to a version higher than 2.2.3.
- Disable Plugin: If an update is not available, disable the plugin until a patched version is released.
- Monitor Logs: Closely monitor server logs for any suspicious activity related to file deletion attempts.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Updates: Ensure all plugins and WordPress core are regularly updated.
- Access Controls: Implement strict access controls and authentication mechanisms.
- Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Deploy WAFs to detect and block malicious requests targeting known vulnerabilities.
- Backup and Recovery: Maintain regular backups and have a recovery plan in place to restore deleted files quickly.
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 Madara - Core plugin. The potential for unauthenticated attackers to delete arbitrary files and execute remote code can lead to data breaches, service disruptions, and financial losses. This underscores the importance of timely patch management and proactive security measures.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerable Function:
wp_manga_delete_zip(): This function is responsible for handling file deletion requests. The lack of proper file path validation allows attackers to specify any file on the server for deletion.
Exploitation Steps:
- Identify Vulnerable Endpoint: Locate the endpoint that triggers the
wp_manga_delete_zip()function. - Craft Malicious Request: Create an HTTP request with a manipulated file path targeting a critical file (e.g.,
wp-config.php). - Send Request: Use tools like
curlor automated scripts to send the crafted request to the server. - Observe Impact: Monitor the server for the deletion of the targeted file and any subsequent effects, such as RCE.
Detection and Response:
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Configure IDS to detect unusual file deletion activities.
- Log Analysis: Regularly analyze server logs for anomalies related to file deletion requests.
- Incident Response Plan: Have a well-defined incident response plan to quickly address and mitigate any detected exploitation attempts.
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and implementing robust security measures, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of exploitation and protect their digital assets.