CVE-2015-4615 in Easy2map-photos Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in Easy2map-photos WordPress Plugin v1.09 allows SQL Injection via unsanitized mapTemplateName, mapName, mapSettingsXML, parentCSSXML, photoCSSXML, mapCSSXML, mapHTML,mapID variables
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/10/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-4615 resides within the Easy2map-photos WordPress plugin version 1.09, presenting a critical SQL injection flaw that could compromise the entire WordPress installation. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization within the plugin's handling of multiple parameters including mapTemplateName, mapName, mapSettingsXML, parentCSSXML, photoCSSXML, mapCSSXML, mapHTML, and mapID. The flaw allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands through these variables, potentially enabling complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic SQL injection pattern where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. When the plugin processes these parameters, it fails to implement adequate input validation or escaping mechanisms, creating a pathway for attackers to manipulate the underlying database queries. The vulnerability affects multiple variables within the plugin's functionality, suggesting a systemic issue in the code's input handling rather than isolated flaws. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization. The attack vector typically involves crafting malicious input strings that, when processed by the vulnerable plugin, alter the intended SQL query structure to execute unauthorized database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, potentially enabling attackers to escalate privileges, modify or delete database content, and gain persistent access to the WordPress environment. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, allowing attackers to install backdoors, modify website content, or extract sensitive user credentials and personal information. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation running the vulnerable plugin version, making it particularly dangerous as it could be exploited across numerous websites without requiring specialized knowledge of the target system. From an adversary perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol usage and T1046 for network service scanning, as attackers would likely first identify the vulnerable plugin before executing the injection attack.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-4615 require immediate action including updating to the latest plugin version where the vulnerability has been patched, implementing proper input validation and sanitization measures, and conducting thorough security audits of all installed WordPress plugins. Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection attempts, while maintaining regular security monitoring to identify potential exploitation attempts. The patching process should be prioritized immediately, as the vulnerability has been known since 2015 and multiple versions have been released since then. Additionally, implementing proper access controls and privilege separation within the database can limit the potential damage from successful exploitation, while regular security assessments of WordPress installations can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or themes that may present similar attack surfaces.