CVE-2013-0734 in Mingle-forum
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in the Mingle Forum plugin before 1.0.34 for WordPress allow remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the (1) search_words parameter in a search action to wpf.class.php or (2) togroupusers parameter in an add_user_togroup action to fs-admin/fs-admin.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/09/2026
The CVE-2013-0734 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the Mingle Forum plugin for WordPress, affecting versions prior to 1.0.34. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's handling of user input parameters, specifically targeting two distinct attack vectors that collectively expose the platform to remote code execution risks. The flaw demonstrates the classic characteristics of XSS vulnerabilities as defined by CWE-79, where malicious scripts can be injected into web applications through user-controllable input fields, potentially compromising user sessions and data integrity.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through improper input validation and output encoding within the plugin's core files. Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by manipulating the search_words parameter in the search action directed to wpf.class.php or the togroupusers parameter in the add_user_togroup action within fs-admin/fs-admin.php. These parameters are processed without adequate sanitization, allowing malicious payloads to be stored and subsequently executed when other users view the affected pages. The vulnerability follows the typical XSS attack pattern where user-supplied data flows directly into HTML output without proper context-aware encoding, creating an environment where attacker-controlled scripts can execute in the victim's browser context.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it provides attackers with the capability to perform session hijacking, steal user credentials, and potentially escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. When exploited, the vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of authenticated users, potentially allowing them to modify forum content, manipulate user permissions, or redirect users to malicious websites. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the Mingle Forum plugin was widely used in WordPress installations, making this vulnerability a significant risk to numerous websites. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 (Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript) and T1531 (Account Access Removal), as it enables attackers to leverage the compromised user context for further malicious activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-0734 require immediate patching of the Mingle Forum plugin to version 1.0.34 or later, which includes proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms. System administrators should implement comprehensive input sanitization routines that validate all user-supplied data against approved character sets and length restrictions. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can provide an additional layer of protection by restricting script execution sources and preventing unauthorized code injection. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and input validation practices, aligning with security standards such as OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious input patterns, while conducting regular security assessments to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins and themes within their WordPress installations.