CVE-2024-9669 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 in the File Manager Pro – Filester plugin for WordPress, which is widely used for file management within WordPress sites. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of the 'fm_locale' parameter, which can be manipulated by an authenticated user with administrator privileges to include arbitrary local JavaScript files. This inclusion allows execution of arbitrary code on the server, effectively enabling attackers to bypass access controls, access sensitive data, or execute malicious payloads. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.8.5, with only a partial patch applied in version 1.8.5, indicating that some attack vectors may remain exploitable. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.2 reflects a high severity due to network attack vector, low attack complexity, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Exploitation requires administrator-level privileges but no user interaction, making it a significant risk in environments where administrator accounts are compromised or insufficiently protected. The vulnerability does not currently have known exploits in the wild, but the potential impact warrants urgent attention. The plugin’s role in managing files means that attackers can upload or include files that are normally considered safe, such as images, to execute code, increasing the attack surface. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in multi-user WordPress environments or those with weak administrative controls.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2024-9669 can be severe. Organizations relying on WordPress with the File Manager Pro – Filester plugin may face unauthorized code execution, leading to data breaches, defacement, or full server compromise. Confidential information, including customer data and internal documents, could be exposed or altered. The ability to bypass access controls can facilitate lateral movement within corporate networks, potentially affecting other critical systems. Service availability may be disrupted if attackers deploy ransomware or destructive payloads. Given the widespread use of WordPress in European public sector, e-commerce, and SMEs, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to data protection and operational continuity, potentially violating GDPR requirements if personal data is compromised. The requirement for administrator privileges limits the attack surface but also highlights the critical importance of securing administrative accounts and monitoring privileged user activities.

1. Immediately update the File Manager Pro – Filester plugin to the latest version beyond 1.8.5 once a full patch is available. 2. Until a complete fix is confirmed, restrict administrator access to trusted personnel only and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as MFA. 3. Implement strict file upload and inclusion policies, including whitelisting allowed file types and paths. 4. Monitor server logs and WordPress activity logs for unusual file inclusion attempts or modifications to the 'fm_locale' parameter. 5. Use Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable parameter. 6. Regularly audit WordPress plugins and remove or replace those that are outdated or no longer maintained. 7. Employ network segmentation to limit the impact of a compromised WordPress server on other critical infrastructure. 8. Backup WordPress sites and databases regularly and verify the integrity of backups to enable rapid recovery if exploitation occurs.