CVE-2008-0617 in DMSGuestbook
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in the DMSGuestbook 1.7.0 plugin for WordPress allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) file parameter to wp-admin/admin.php, or the (2) messagefield parameter in the guestbook page, and the (3) title parameter in the messagearea.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/15/2024
The CVE-2008-0617 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the DMSGuestbook 1.7.0 WordPress plugin, exposing web applications to persistent malicious script injection attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets three distinct input parameters within the plugin's administrative and frontend interfaces, creating multiple attack vectors for remote threat actors. The flaw resides in the plugin's insufficient input validation and output sanitization mechanisms, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts or HTML code within the context of authenticated users' browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling in three separate locations within the plugin's codebase. The first vector involves the file parameter in wp-admin/admin.php where the plugin fails to properly sanitize user input before processing it within the administrative interface. The second vulnerability occurs in the messagefield parameter on the guestbook page, where the plugin does not adequately filter or encode user-submitted content before rendering it in the browser. The third weakness is found in the title parameter within the messagearea, where similar sanitization failures allow malicious code injection. These flaws collectively demonstrate a lack of proper input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental to preventing XSS attacks.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to perform session hijacking, steal sensitive cookies, redirect users to malicious domains, and potentially escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that appear legitimate to end users, making the attack surface particularly dangerous in environments where administrators regularly visit guestbook pages or manage plugin settings. The vulnerability affects the entire WordPress ecosystem where the DMSGuestbook plugin is installed, potentially compromising multiple user sessions and enabling persistent backdoor access. This weakness aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities in web applications, and can be categorized under ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious web content.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the DMSGuestbook plugin to version 1.7.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and output encoding measures. Administrators should also implement Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution and monitor for suspicious activity in guestbook submissions. The recommended approach includes disabling the plugin if immediate updates are not possible, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, and conducting comprehensive security audits of all installed WordPress plugins. Additionally, regular security monitoring and user education about suspicious links and content are essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy. Organizations should also consider implementing input validation rules that specifically target the identified parameters and establish automated scanning procedures to detect similar vulnerabilities in other installed plugins. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining updated WordPress plugins and following secure coding practices that prevent injection flaws in web applications.