CVE-2024-10098 is a vulnerability identified in the ApplyOnline WordPress plugin versions prior to 2.6.3. The core issue is an authorization bypass related to the handling of uploaded files during the application process. Specifically, the plugin fails to adequately protect these uploaded files, allowing unauthenticated users to access them. This vulnerability is categorized under CWE-639, which concerns authorization bypass through user-controlled keys or parameters. The lack of proper access controls means that sensitive or private information contained within these uploaded files can be exposed to unauthorized parties. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 2.7, indicating a low severity level. The vector string (AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:N/A:N) shows that the attack vector is network-based, requires high privileges, no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality to a limited extent without affecting integrity or availability. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches or updates are linked yet, although the vulnerability is publicly disclosed. The plugin is used within WordPress environments, which are common for websites that manage applications or form submissions. The vulnerability arises from insufficient authorization checks on file access, which could lead to unauthorized data disclosure if exploited.

For European organizations using the ApplyOnline WordPress plugin, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive applicant data or other private information stored in uploaded files. This exposure could violate data protection regulations such as the GDPR, leading to legal and financial repercussions. Although the severity is low and exploitation requires high privileges, the risk remains significant for organizations that handle personal or confidential data through this plugin. The breach of confidentiality could damage organizational reputation and trust, especially for entities in sectors like recruitment, education, or government services that rely on application processing. Since the vulnerability does not affect data integrity or availability, the primary concern is unauthorized data access. European organizations with public-facing WordPress sites using this plugin should be vigilant, as attackers could potentially leverage this flaw to gather sensitive information without authentication.

Organizations should immediately verify if their WordPress installations use the ApplyOnline plugin and identify the version in use. If the version is prior to 2.6.3, they should upgrade to the latest version once available to ensure the vulnerability is patched. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should implement strict access controls at the web server or application level to restrict direct access to uploaded files, such as configuring .htaccess rules or equivalent to deny unauthorized requests. Additionally, auditing file permissions and ensuring that uploaded files are stored outside the web root or in protected directories can reduce exposure. Monitoring web server logs for unusual access patterns to uploaded files can help detect exploitation attempts. Organizations should also review their data handling and retention policies to minimize sensitive data exposure and consider encrypting sensitive uploads. Finally, maintaining regular backups and ensuring that WordPress and all plugins are kept up to date will reduce the risk of exploitation.