CVE-2012-1067 in WP-RecentComments
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the WP-RecentComments plugin 2.0.7 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the id parameter in an rc-content action to index.php. NOTE: the provenance of this information is unknown; the details are obtained solely from third party information.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2017
The CVE-2012-1067 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the WP-RecentComments plugin version 2.0.7 for WordPress platforms. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of user input through the id parameter in the rc-content action of the index.php file. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection attacks, where improper neutralization of special elements in sql queries enables attackers to execute unauthorized database operations. The attack vector is particularly concerning as it allows remote code execution without requiring authentication, making it accessible to any internet-connected attacker who can craft malicious requests.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a crafted id parameter value that bypasses the plugin's input validation checks. The WP-RecentComments plugin fails to properly escape or parameterize the input before incorporating it into sql queries, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql payloads. This vulnerability directly impacts the database layer of affected WordPress installations, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even escalate privileges within the system. The rc-content action in index.php serves as the primary entry point where the malicious id parameter is processed, making this specific endpoint the focal point for exploitation attempts.
The operational impact of CVE-2012-1067 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise of affected WordPress installations. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to gain unauthorized access to user credentials, personal information, and potentially establish persistent backdoors within the compromised systems. The vulnerability affects all WordPress installations running the vulnerable plugin version, creating widespread exposure across numerous websites and organizations that fail to maintain updated plugin versions. This vulnerability is particularly dangerous in environments where WordPress serves as a content management platform for sensitive data, as the attack surface includes not only the database but also the entire web application stack. The lack of authentication requirements for exploitation means that attackers can operate without detection, making this vulnerability especially perilous for organizations relying on the plugin for comment management functionality.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies to protect their WordPress installations. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to a patched version of the WP-RecentComments plugin, as this addresses the core input validation issues that enable the sql injection attack. System administrators should also implement web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious sql injection patterns targeting the specific rc-content endpoint. Input validation should be strengthened through proper parameterization of all database queries, ensuring that user-supplied parameters are never directly concatenated into sql statements. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting database permissions for WordPress applications, restricting potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, regular security audits and penetration testing should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and themes, while implementing monitoring systems to detect unusual database access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing comprehensive security practices that align with industry standards such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten project and NIST cybersecurity frameworks.