Directory listing vulnerabilities of source code disclosure via exposed WordPress folders using Google Dorks occur when a hacker is able to gain access to the source code of a website through the use of specific search terms, known as “Google Dorks,” that reveal the directory structure of a website. This can happen when a WordPress website has not properly configured its directory settings, leaving certain folders exposed to the public.
When a hacker finds an exposed folder, they can then access the source code and potentially find vulnerabilities within the website. This can include sensitive information such as login credentials, database connections, and other sensitive information that can be used to exploit the website.
To prevent this type of vulnerability, it is important to properly configure the directory settings on a WordPress website. This can be done by disabling directory listing in the server configuration, adding a “index.php” or “index.html” file to the exposed folder, or by using a plugin such as “Better WordPress Security” which can automatically disable directory listing.
Additionally, it is important to regularly check for exposed folders by using Google Dorks to search for specific terms that may reveal the directory structure of a website. This can be done by searching for specific file types, such as “index.php” or “wp-config.php,” or by searching for specific keywords that are commonly found in directory structures, such as “wp-content” or “uploads.”
It is also important to keep the software and plugins of the WordPress website up to date to ensure that any known vulnerabilities are patched. This can be done by using the built-in update function within the WordPress dashboard or by using a plugin such as “Easy Updates Manager.”
I have found more than 40+ Directory Listing Vulnerabilities which contain Source Code Disclosure via the Exposed WordPress Folders (/wp-admin & Others) just by using Google Dorks as shown below 👇
Google Dorks:
Index:Index of /wp-admin
Google Dorks:
Index:Index of /wp-content/uploads
Some websites confidential info like database usernames/passwords and other configuration data are exposed directly to public view. For example, we can find database credentials in the “wp-config.php” folder of a website as shown below
Precautions and Recommendations:
1. The application should have proper permissions on sensitive directories and content.
2. To fix this vulnerability, either remove the “/wp-content/uploads/” or any other folder which contains confidential info from your web server or ensure that you deny public access to the “/wp-content/uploads/” folders on your server
3. Please follow the below reference articles to understand the issue in detail and fix it.
References:
Overall, to prevent directory listing vulnerabilities of source code disclosure via exposed WordPress folders using Google Dorks, it is important to properly configure the directory settings on a website, regularly check for exposed folders using Google Dorks, and keep the software and plugins of the website up to date.
