CVE-2015-1879 in Google Doc Embedder
Summary
by MITRE
Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Google Doc Embedder plugin before 2.5.19 for WordPress allows remote attackers to inject arbitrary web script or HTML via the profile parameter in an edit action in the gde-settings page to wp-admin/options-general.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2024
The CVE-2015-1879 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Google Doc Embedder plugin for WordPress systems. This vulnerability specifically affects versions prior to 2.5.19 and creates a pathway for remote attackers to execute malicious web scripts or HTML code within the context of affected websites. The flaw manifests through improper input validation mechanisms that fail to adequately sanitize user-supplied data, particularly when processing the profile parameter within the edit action of the gde-settings page located at wp-admin/options-general.php. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to implement proper output encoding and input sanitization techniques, allowing attackers to inject malicious payloads that can persist and execute in the browsers of unsuspecting users.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates the profile parameter in the gde-settings page URL, specifically during edit operations within the WordPress administrative interface. This allows the attacker to inject arbitrary JavaScript code or HTML content that gets executed in the context of the victim's browser session. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79, which classifies it as a Cross-Site Scripting weakness, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious web content. The flaw demonstrates a classic input validation failure where user-provided parameters are directly incorporated into dynamic web content without proper sanitization or encoding mechanisms.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, data exfiltration, and the execution of arbitrary commands within the compromised WordPress environment. When exploited, the vulnerability can allow attackers to manipulate the plugin's configuration settings, potentially leading to complete administrative control over the affected WordPress installation. The attack vector specifically targets the WordPress administrative interface, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to sensitive system configurations. The persistent nature of XSS vulnerabilities means that once exploited, malicious scripts can continue to execute against all users who visit the compromised page until the vulnerability is patched.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate upgrade to Google Doc Embedder plugin version 2.5.19 or later, which includes proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms. Additionally, administrators should implement proper web application firewall rules to detect and block suspicious parameter values, conduct regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes, and ensure that all WordPress installations maintain current versions of core software and plugins. Security best practices should include implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, conducting regular vulnerability assessments, and maintaining comprehensive backup strategies to enable rapid recovery from potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all WordPress installations.