CVE-2024-5431 is a remote file inclusion (RFI) vulnerability classified under CWE-98, affecting the WPCafe plugin for WordPress, which is widely used for online food ordering, restaurant menus, delivery, and reservations integrated with WooCommerce. The vulnerability arises from improper control of the filename used in an include or require statement within the plugin's code, specifically via the reservation_extra_field shortcode parameter. Authenticated attackers with Contributor-level access or higher can exploit this flaw by manipulating this parameter to include remote files, leading to arbitrary code execution on the web server. This can result in full compromise of the WordPress site, including data theft, defacement, or pivoting to internal networks. The vulnerability affects all versions up to 2.2.25, with no patch currently available at the time of disclosure. The CVSS v3.1 score is 8.8 (High), reflecting the network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and the high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no exploits are publicly known yet, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress and WPCafe make this a critical issue for affected sites. The vulnerability was published on June 25, 2024, and was reserved in late May 2024 by Wordfence. The lack of user interaction needed and the ability to execute code remotely make this a significant threat.

The impact of CVE-2024-5431 is substantial for organizations using the WPCafe plugin. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on the web server, potentially leading to full site compromise. This can result in unauthorized access to sensitive customer data, including personal and payment information, disruption of online ordering services, and damage to brand reputation. Attackers could also use the compromised server as a foothold to launch further attacks within the internal network or to distribute malware. Given the plugin’s role in e-commerce and food delivery, downtime or data breaches could lead to significant financial losses and regulatory penalties. The requirement for Contributor-level access means that attackers must first compromise or register an account with some privileges, but this is often feasible on many WordPress sites. The vulnerability’s high CVSS score reflects the severe confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. Organizations worldwide that rely on this plugin for their online food ordering systems are at risk of operational disruption and data breaches.

Organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations for the presence of the WPCafe plugin and verify the version in use. Since no official patch is currently available, temporary mitigations include restricting Contributor-level user registrations and privileges, implementing strict input validation and sanitization on shortcode parameters if possible, and employing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the reservation_extra_field parameter. Monitoring logs for unusual activity related to shortcode usage can help detect exploitation attempts. Administrators should also consider disabling or removing the plugin if it is not essential. Keeping WordPress core and all plugins updated is critical once a patch is released. Additionally, isolating the WordPress environment and limiting file inclusion paths via server configuration can reduce the risk. Regular backups and incident response plans should be in place to recover quickly from any compromise.