CVE-2020-25213 WordPress File Manager Plugin: dangerous file upload
In plain words: The program accepts files it should refuse, such as programs disguised as ordinary uploads. The attacker can place and run their own tools on the server.
Confirmed exploited by CISA on · US federal patch deadline May 3, 2022
What to do
- Install WordPress's security update for File Manager Plugin. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships.
- Keep a list of every internet-facing server you run so nothing is forgotten.
- Patch anything in this catalog first, ahead of normal patch cycles.
- Put admin and file-transfer apps behind a VPN or single sign-on instead of the open internet.
Who is affected
Work IT. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.
What's at risk: Mass data theft and ransomware: a single flaw in a file-transfer or email server has exposed thousands of organisations at once.
The details
- Official name
- WordPress File Manager Plugin Remote Code Execution Vulnerability
- Product
- WordPress File Manager Plugin
- CISA description
- WordPress File Manager plugin contains a remote code execution vulnerability that allows unauthenticated users to execute PHP code and upload malicious files on a target site.
- Type of flaw
- Dangerous file upload (CWE-434)
- Confirmed exploited
- Nov 3, 2021
- US federal patch deadline
- May 3, 2022
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Answering about CVE-2020-25213 ·
Questions about CVE-2020-25213
Is CVE-2020-25213 being exploited?
Yes. CISA added CVE-2020-25213 to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalog on Nov 3, 2021, which means there is reliable evidence of real-world attacks.
How do I fix CVE-2020-25213?
Install WordPress's security update for File Manager Plugin. If no update exists, follow the vendor's workaround or stop using the product until one ships. Keep a list of every internet-facing server you run so nothing is forgotten.
Am I affected by CVE-2020-25213?
Only if you use WordPress File Manager Plugin. Aimed mostly at company systems — you are affected through the companies you use, not your own phone.