CVE-2024-3808 is a Local File Inclusion vulnerability identified in the Porto Theme - Functionality plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 3.1.0. The vulnerability arises from improper validation and control of the 'portfolio_layout' attribute within the 'porto_portfolios' shortcode, which allows authenticated users with contributor-level or higher permissions to manipulate the filename used in PHP include or require statements. By exploiting this flaw, an attacker can include arbitrary files from the server, including those uploaded maliciously, leading to remote code execution. This can bypass normal access controls, allowing execution of arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to full server compromise, data exfiltration, or further lateral movement within the network. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-98, indicating improper control of filenames in include/require statements. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8 (high severity), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to WordPress sites using this theme plugin, especially those allowing contributor-level access to untrusted users. The lack of a patch at the time of reporting necessitates immediate mitigation steps.

The impact of CVE-2024-3808 is substantial for organizations running WordPress sites with the vulnerable Porto Theme - Functionality plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution on the web server, enabling attackers to bypass access controls and execute arbitrary PHP code. This can result in full server compromise, unauthorized access to sensitive data, defacement of websites, deployment of malware or ransomware, and use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The requirement for contributor-level authentication limits the attack surface somewhat but remains a significant risk in environments where multiple users have such privileges or where accounts can be compromised. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, potentially causing severe operational disruption and reputational damage. Organizations with high-value web assets or sensitive customer data hosted on WordPress platforms are particularly at risk.

To mitigate CVE-2024-3808, organizations should: 1) Immediately restrict contributor-level and higher permissions to trusted users only, minimizing the number of accounts that can exploit this vulnerability. 2) Monitor and audit user activities for suspicious file uploads or shortcode usage related to 'porto_portfolios'. 3) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block attempts to manipulate the 'portfolio_layout' attribute or include unexpected files. 4) Disable or remove the Porto Theme - Functionality plugin if not essential, or replace it with a secure alternative. 5) If possible, apply manual code fixes by sanitizing and validating the 'portfolio_layout' parameter to prevent file inclusion attacks until an official patch is released. 6) Harden file upload mechanisms to restrict PHP file uploads and enforce strict file type validation. 7) Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8) Stay alert for official patches or updates from the vendor and apply them promptly once available.