CVE-2014-10013 in Another WordPress Classifieds Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Another WordPress Classifieds Plugin plugin for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the keywordphrase parameter in a dosearch action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/25/2024
The CVE-2014-10013 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Another WordPress Classifieds Plugin for WordPress, a widely used directory and classifieds management solution. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's search functionality, where the keywordphrase parameter in the dosearch action becomes a vector for malicious sql command execution. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's core code, creating an exploitable entry point that adversaries can leverage to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to the underlying database infrastructure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the plugin's search processing logic. When users submit search queries through the classifieds interface, the keywordphrase parameter is directly incorporated into sql query construction without adequate sanitization or parameterization. This design flaw aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes sql injection as a fundamental weakness in software applications that allow attackers to manipulate sql command execution. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where user-supplied input transitions directly into database operations, creating a clear path for malicious actors to inject crafted sql payloads that can manipulate, retrieve, or delete database content.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as remote attackers can leverage the sql injection to execute arbitrary commands on the affected wordpress installation's database server. Successful exploitation allows attackers to access sensitive user information, modify classified listings, escalate privileges within the wordpress environment, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that the plugin was widely installed across wordpress ecosystems, making numerous websites vulnerable to coordinated exploitation campaigns. This vulnerability directly maps to multiple ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, demonstrating how attackers can move laterally through compromised wordpress installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-10013 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the sql injection vulnerability through proper input validation and parameterized query construction. System administrators must implement comprehensive monitoring of database access patterns to detect anomalous sql execution that might indicate exploitation attempts. Network-based protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be configured to filter suspicious sql injection patterns targeting the specific dosearch endpoint. Additionally, the principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting database user permissions to only necessary operations, reducing the potential impact of successful exploitation. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their wordpress installations to identify other potentially affected plugins and ensure comprehensive patch management across all application components.