CVE-2007-1230 in WordPress
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in wp-includes/functions.php in WordPress before 2.1.2-alpha allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via (1) the Referer HTTP header or (2) the URI, a different vulnerability than CVE-2007-1049.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/09/2017
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2007-1230 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw affecting WordPress versions prior to 2.1.2-alpha. This vulnerability resides within the wp-includes/functions.php file, which serves as a core component of the WordPress content management system. The flaw manifests through two distinct attack vectors that enable remote attackers to inject malicious web scripts or HTML content into the targeted system. The first vector involves manipulation of the Referer HTTP header, while the second targets the URI parameter, creating multiple pathways for exploitation that significantly expands the attack surface. This vulnerability operates under the broader category of CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses the failure to properly sanitize user inputs before incorporating them into web page content. The attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, as it targets publicly accessible web applications through input validation weaknesses.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within WordPress's core functions. When the system processes user-provided data through the Referer header or URI parameters, it fails to adequately filter or escape special characters that could be interpreted as executable script code. This processing occurs in the wp-includes/functions.php file, which handles various core WordPress operations including HTTP header processing and URL parameter handling. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows attackers to inject malicious payloads that can execute in the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or further compromise of the affected WordPress installation. The flaw's persistence across multiple attack vectors demonstrates a fundamental weakness in the input handling architecture that affects the application's core security posture.
The operational impact of CVE-2007-1230 extends beyond simple script injection, creating potential for significant security breaches within WordPress installations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious scripts that may steal cookies, redirect users to phishing sites, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability's presence in WordPress before version 2.1.2-alpha meant that a substantial number of installations were potentially exposed, as WordPress was widely adopted and many sites had not yet updated to the patched version. This type of vulnerability directly impacts the availability and integrity of web applications, as it can lead to complete compromise of user sessions and potential data exfiltration. The security implications also extend to the broader web ecosystem, as compromised WordPress installations can serve as launching points for attacks against other systems or as sources of malicious traffic distribution.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2007-1230 primarily focus on immediate version upgrades and input validation enhancements. The most effective remediation involves upgrading to WordPress version 2.1.2-alpha or later, which includes the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerabilities in the affected functions.php file. Organizations should also implement comprehensive input validation measures, including the application of proper HTML escaping techniques for all user-provided data before rendering it in web pages. Security headers such as Content Security Policy can provide additional protection by limiting script execution and preventing unauthorized code injection. The vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software versions and implementing robust security practices including regular security audits, input sanitization, and proper output encoding. Additionally, monitoring for suspicious Referer headers and URI patterns can help detect potential exploitation attempts, while network-based intrusion detection systems can provide early warning of exploitation activities targeting this specific vulnerability.