jQuery File Upload Plugin - RCE (CVE-2014-8739)

CVE-2014-8739 is a critical unrestricted file upload vulnerability in the jQuery File Upload Plugin 6.4.4, as used in Creative Contact Form for WordPress and Joomla!. This flaw allows remote attackers to upload and execute arbitrary PHP code by simply uploading a malicious file, leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability has been actively exploited in the wild, enabling attackers to gain unauthorized access and control over affected servers.

CrowdSec has been tracking this vulnerability and its exploits since 24th of September 2025.

According to CrowdSec data, while opportunistic exploitation dominates, a portion of threat actors trying to exploit CVE-2014-8739 apply basic targeting methods such as port or service detection. This indicates emerging patterns of selective targeting. Additionally, according to week-over-week analysis by CrowdSec, exploitation of CVE-2014-8739 is surging. Attack volumes are spiking well above historical norms, indicating widespread and escalating interest from threat actors. CVE-2014-8739 is currently experiencing high visibility and active exploitation across the internet.

Attackers exploit the file upload functionality at /wp-content/plugins/sexy-contact-form/includes/fileupload/index.php to upload malicious PHP files, which are then accessed directly via the /wp-content/plugins/sexy-contact-form/includes/fileupload/files/ directory to achieve remote code execution.