CVE-2024-13787 is a critical vulnerability classified under CWE-502 (Deserialization of Untrusted Data) affecting the VEDA - MultiPurpose WordPress Theme up to version 4.2. The flaw exists in the 'veda_backup_and_restore_action' function, which improperly deserializes user-supplied input without sufficient validation or sanitization. This enables authenticated users with as low as Subscriber-level privileges to inject crafted PHP objects into the application. The vulnerability itself does not contain a gadget or POP (Property Oriented Programming) chain necessary for exploitation, meaning that on its own, it cannot lead to code execution or other severe impacts. However, if the WordPress site has other plugins or themes installed that contain exploitable POP chains, attackers can leverage this vulnerability to perform PHP Object Injection attacks. Such attacks can lead to arbitrary file deletion, sensitive data disclosure, or remote code execution depending on the gadget chains available. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without user interaction and requires only low privileges, making it highly dangerous. The CVSS v3.1 score of 9.8 reflects the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with ease of exploitation. No patches are currently linked, and no active exploits have been reported in the wild, but the risk is significant given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of the VEDA theme.

If exploited, this vulnerability could have severe consequences for organizations running WordPress sites with the VEDA theme and additional plugins or themes containing POP chains. Attackers could gain the ability to execute arbitrary PHP code, leading to full site compromise, data theft, defacement, or disruption of services. File deletion could result in data loss or downtime, while sensitive data exposure could lead to further attacks or compliance violations. Since the vulnerability requires only Subscriber-level access, attackers could exploit compromised or weak user accounts, increasing the attack surface. The impact extends to the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, potentially affecting customer trust and business continuity. Given WordPress's global popularity, organizations of all sizes using this theme are at risk, especially those with complex plugin ecosystems that might provide the necessary POP chains for exploitation.

Organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the use of the VEDA - MultiPurpose WordPress Theme, especially versions up to 4.2. If possible, update to a patched version once available or temporarily disable the theme until a fix is released. Restrict user roles and permissions to minimize the number of users with Subscriber-level or higher access. Conduct an inventory of installed plugins and themes to identify potential POP chains that could be exploited in conjunction with this vulnerability. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block suspicious deserialization payloads targeting the 'veda_backup_and_restore_action' function. Monitor logs for unusual activity related to deserialization or backup and restore actions. Consider implementing additional input validation or disabling the vulnerable functionality if feasible. Regularly back up site data and test restoration procedures to mitigate potential data loss from exploitation. Engage with the theme vendor or community for patches or mitigations and stay informed about exploit developments.