CVE-2008-7321 in tubepress Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The tubepress plugin before 1.6.5 for WordPress has XSS.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/28/2023
The tubepress plugin for WordPress prior to version 1.6.5 contained a cross-site scripting vulnerability that allowed attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users. This vulnerability specifically affected the plugin's handling of user input within the WordPress content management system, creating a persistent security risk for websites utilizing the affected version. The flaw existed in the plugin's parameter processing mechanisms where insufficient input validation and output sanitization permitted malicious code execution within the browser context of authenticated users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stemmed from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data within the plugin's shortcode processing functionality. When users embedded YouTube videos through tubepress shortcodes, the plugin failed to properly escape or validate parameters such as video IDs, playlist identifiers, or other configurable options. This weakness enabled attackers to craft malicious input that would be executed as JavaScript code when rendered in the browser, particularly affecting administrators or users with elevated privileges who viewed pages containing compromised tubepress embeds. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications.
The operational impact of this vulnerability was significant as it could enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and unauthorized administrative actions. Attackers could exploit this weakness to inject malicious scripts that would execute in the context of the victim's browser, potentially allowing them to steal cookies, modify content, or redirect users to phishing sites. The vulnerability was particularly dangerous because it affected the WordPress admin interface where users with appropriate permissions might be exposed to the malicious payloads, creating potential for privilege escalation attacks.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability required immediate patching of the tubepress plugin to version 1.6.5 or later, which included proper input validation and output escaping mechanisms. System administrators should have implemented additional security measures such as regular plugin updates, web application firewalls, and input validation policies to prevent similar vulnerabilities. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this type of vulnerability under T1059.007 for scripting languages and T1566 for credential access through social engineering techniques. Organizations should have maintained comprehensive patch management procedures and conducted regular security assessments to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in their WordPress installations, particularly focusing on plugin security hygiene and input sanitization practices.