CVE-2014-4524 in WP Easy Post Types
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in classes/custom-image/media.php in the WP Easy Post Types plugin before 1.4.4 for WordPress allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the ref parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/15/2024
The CVE-2014-4524 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the WP Easy Post Types plugin for WordPress, specifically within the classes/custom-image/media.php file. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 1.4.4 and exposes WordPress installations to remote code execution risks through malicious script injection. The flaw manifests when the plugin fails to properly sanitize the ref parameter, allowing attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts or HTML content into the application's response. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting attacks, where improper input validation enables malicious code execution in the context of the victim's browser.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts a malicious URL containing script code within the ref parameter and persuades a user to click on the link. When the vulnerable plugin processes this parameter without adequate sanitization, the injected script executes in the victim's browser session, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple script injection as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks such as cookie theft, defacement of content, or even privilege escalation within the WordPress environment. This weakness particularly affects the plugin's media handling functionality where user input is processed without proper validation mechanisms.
From an operational standpoint, this vulnerability presents significant risks to WordPress administrators and end users who may unknowingly interact with malicious links. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond clicking a link, making it highly exploitable in phishing campaigns or social engineering attacks. The vulnerability can be exploited across multiple WordPress installations that have not updated to version 1.4.4 or later, creating a widespread attack surface. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering tactics, specifically focusing on the manipulation of user interactions to achieve malicious objectives. The impact is amplified when considering that WordPress remains one of the most widely used content management systems, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in large-scale attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2014-4524 primarily involve updating the WP Easy Post Types plugin to version 1.4.4 or later, which includes proper input sanitization for the ref parameter. Administrators should implement comprehensive plugin management policies that include regular updates, vulnerability scanning, and monitoring for outdated components. Additional protective measures include implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, conducting regular security audits of installed plugins, and establishing user education programs to recognize potentially malicious links. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense in depth, though the most effective approach remains immediate patching of the vulnerable component. Security teams should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from remaining unaddressed in the future, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of timely security updates in preventing exploitation of known flaws.