CVE-2024-9935 identifies a path traversal vulnerability in the PDF Generator Addon for Elementor Page Builder plugin for WordPress, specifically in the rtw_pgaepb_dwnld_pdf() function. This vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.7.5. Path traversal (CWE-22) occurs when the plugin fails to properly sanitize or restrict user-supplied input that specifies file paths, allowing attackers to manipulate the pathname to access files outside the intended directory. Because the function can be triggered without authentication, an unauthenticated attacker can craft requests to read arbitrary files on the web server. This can expose sensitive data such as configuration files, credentials, or other private information stored on the server. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 7.5 (high), reflecting the vulnerability's network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges or user interaction required, and high confidentiality impact. No integrity or availability impact is noted. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and thus may be targeted soon. The plugin is used within the WordPress ecosystem, which is widely deployed globally, increasing the potential attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of secure input validation and access control in web application plugins, especially those handling file operations.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9935 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored on the web server hosting the vulnerable WordPress plugin. Attackers can read arbitrary files, potentially gaining access to configuration files, database credentials, private keys, or other sensitive data that could facilitate further compromise. Although this vulnerability does not allow code execution or direct modification of data, the exposure of confidential information can lead to significant downstream risks such as credential theft, lateral movement, or targeted attacks against the organization. Organizations running websites with this plugin are at risk of data breaches, loss of customer trust, and regulatory penalties if sensitive data is exposed. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation and lack of authentication requirements make it a critical threat, especially for high-profile or data-sensitive websites. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for mitigation, but the public disclosure increases the likelihood of exploitation attempts globally.

1. Immediately update the PDF Generator Addon for Elementor Page Builder plugin to a patched version once available from the vendor. Monitor vendor communications for official patches. 2. If no patch is available, temporarily disable or uninstall the vulnerable plugin to eliminate exposure. 3. Implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting path traversal patterns targeting the rtw_pgaepb_dwnld_pdf() function or PDF download endpoints. 4. Restrict file system permissions for the web server user to limit access to sensitive files, ensuring that even if path traversal is attempted, critical files are not readable. 5. Conduct regular audits of server logs to identify unusual access patterns or repeated attempts to access unauthorized files. 6. Employ intrusion detection systems (IDS) with signatures for path traversal attacks. 7. Educate site administrators on the risks of using outdated plugins and enforce a patch management policy. 8. Consider isolating WordPress instances in containerized or sandboxed environments to limit the blast radius of potential exploits.