CVE-2013-7477 in events-manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The events-manager plugin before 5.5.2 for WordPress has XSS in the booking form.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/08/2024
The CVE-2013-7477 vulnerability affects the events-manager plugin for WordPress, specifically versions prior to 5.5.2, and represents a cross-site scripting flaw within the booking form functionality. This vulnerability exposes WordPress websites utilizing the events-manager plugin to potential malicious attacks that could compromise user sessions and data integrity. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and output sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's booking form processing logic, allowing attackers to inject malicious script code that executes in the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability specifically impacts the plugin's handling of user-submitted data within the booking form interface, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can exploit the lack of proper sanitization measures to execute arbitrary JavaScript code.
The technical implementation of this XSS vulnerability occurs when the events-manager plugin fails to properly escape or filter user input before rendering it back to the browser within the booking form context. This flaw allows attackers to inject malicious payloads through form fields that are subsequently displayed to other users or administrators. The vulnerability can be exploited through various vectors including hidden fields, text inputs, and textarea elements within the booking form, where the plugin does not adequately sanitize the data before outputting it to HTML pages. The attack typically involves crafting malicious input that contains script tags or other XSS payload constructs, which are then rendered in the browser when other users view the booking form or related content.
The operational impact of CVE-2013-7477 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, and potential privilege escalation within the affected WordPress environment. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to steal user cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or inject additional malicious code that could compromise the entire WordPress installation. The vulnerability particularly affects event management websites where users frequently submit booking information, making it a prime target for exploitation. When combined with other vulnerabilities or social engineering techniques, this XSS flaw could enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to administrative panels or manipulate event data. The impact is compounded in environments where administrators regularly interact with booking form data, as they become potential targets for targeted attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2013-7477 primarily involve updating the events-manager plugin to version 5.5.2 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms. Organizations should implement comprehensive patch management processes to ensure all WordPress plugins remain current with security updates. Additional protective measures include implementing content security policies that restrict script execution, using web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, and conducting regular security audits of WordPress installations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which describes cross-site scripting flaws, and can be mapped to ATT&CK technique T1213.002 for credential access through web application vulnerabilities. Administrators should also consider implementing input validation at multiple layers, including client-side and server-side filtering, to provide defense-in-depth against similar vulnerabilities. Regular monitoring of plugin repositories and security advisories helps prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities in third-party components.