CVE-2024-4359 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-98 (Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement) affecting the bdthemes Element Pack Elementor Addons plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 5.7.2. The flaw exists in the render_svg function utilized by the SVG widget, where insufficient validation of file paths allows an authenticated attacker with contributor-level or higher permissions to read arbitrary files on the server. This is a remote file inclusion-related vulnerability but limited to authenticated users, as it requires contributor-level access. The attacker can exploit this to disclose sensitive server files, potentially including configuration files, credentials, or other private data, without affecting system integrity or availability. The vulnerability has a CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.5, indicating a medium severity with a high confidentiality impact (C:H), low attack complexity (AC:L), and no user interaction (UI:N). No known public exploits have been reported yet. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin prior to a fix, and no official patch links are currently available. The risk is heightened in environments where contributor roles are widely assigned or where sensitive information is stored on the web server. This vulnerability highlights the importance of strict input validation and access control in WordPress plugins handling file operations.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-4359 is unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information due to arbitrary file read capabilities granted to authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher. This can lead to exposure of configuration files, database credentials, API keys, or other sensitive data stored on the server, potentially facilitating further attacks such as privilege escalation or lateral movement. While the vulnerability does not allow code execution or denial of service, the confidentiality breach can be severe, especially for organizations hosting sensitive or regulated data. The scope includes any WordPress site using the affected plugin versions, which could be widespread given the popularity of Elementor and its addons. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could gain insights into the server environment, increasing the risk of targeted attacks. The medium severity rating reflects the balance between the need for authentication and the high impact of data disclosure. Organizations with multiple contributors or less restrictive role assignments are at greater risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently limits immediate threat but does not diminish the urgency of remediation.

To mitigate CVE-2024-4359, organizations should immediately audit and restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface. Implement strict role-based access controls and monitor contributor activities for suspicious file access patterns. Disable or remove the vulnerable SVG widget if not essential. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion or path traversal patterns targeting the plugin. Regularly review server file permissions to ensure sensitive files are not world-readable. Since no official patch is currently available, consider applying temporary code-level mitigations such as adding strict input validation and sanitization in the render_svg function to restrict file paths to safe directories. Stay informed on vendor updates and apply official patches promptly once released. Additionally, conduct regular security assessments and vulnerability scans focusing on WordPress plugins to detect similar issues early.