CVE-2024-9224 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 found in the kau-boy Hello World plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 2.1.1 and is exploitable through the hello_world_lyric() function. The flaw allows authenticated attackers with subscriber-level privileges or higher to read arbitrary files on the server by manipulating path inputs, bypassing intended directory restrictions. Because the vulnerability enables arbitrary file reading, attackers can access sensitive files such as configuration files, password stores, or other critical data that could facilitate further attacks or data leakage. The vulnerability does not impact integrity or availability directly but has a high impact on confidentiality. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.5, reflecting a network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, no user interaction, and a high confidentiality impact. No patches or official fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a risk. The vulnerability affects WordPress sites globally, given the widespread use of the Hello World plugin, especially in environments where subscriber-level accounts are common. The attack requires authentication but no additional user interaction, making it feasible for insiders or compromised accounts to exploit.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9224 is unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information due to arbitrary file reading on affected WordPress servers. This can lead to exposure of configuration files, database credentials, private keys, or other sensitive data stored on the server, potentially enabling further compromise or data breaches. Organizations with affected WordPress installations risk data leakage that could undermine confidentiality and trust. Since the vulnerability requires only subscriber-level access, attackers do not need administrative privileges, increasing the attack surface. The flaw does not directly affect system integrity or availability but can facilitate subsequent attacks that do. The widespread use of WordPress and the Hello World plugin means many websites globally could be impacted, especially those that allow user registrations or have subscriber-level accounts. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as proof-of-concept exploits could emerge. Overall, the vulnerability poses a medium risk but with potentially serious consequences if exploited in sensitive environments.

1. Immediately restrict or disable the kau-boy Hello World plugin on WordPress sites until a patch is available. 2. Monitor user accounts and restrict subscriber-level privileges to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of exploitation by malicious insiders or compromised accounts. 3. Implement strict file system permissions on the web server to limit access to sensitive files, ensuring the web server process cannot read unnecessary files. 4. Use web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts targeting the hello_world_lyric() function or similar endpoints. 5. Regularly audit WordPress plugins and remove unused or unnecessary plugins to reduce attack surface. 6. Once a patch or update is released by the vendor, apply it promptly. 7. Employ monitoring and alerting for unusual file access patterns or privilege escalations within WordPress. 8. Educate site administrators about the risks of granting subscriber-level access and enforce strong authentication controls to prevent account compromise.