CVE-2015-7527 in Cool Video Gallery Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
lib/core.php in the Cool Video Gallery plugin 1.9 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary code via shell metacharacters in the "Width of preview image" and possibly other input fields in the "Video Gallery Settings" page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-7527 resides within the Cool Video Gallery plugin version 1.9 for WordPress, specifically in the lib/core.php file. This represents a critical security flaw that enables remote attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected systems through the manipulation of input fields within the plugin's administrative interface. The vulnerability manifests when attackers exploit improper input validation mechanisms in the "Width of preview image" parameter and potentially other fields within the "Video Gallery Settings" page, creating a pathway for code execution that bypasses normal security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows a classic command injection pattern where malicious shell metacharacters are inserted into the configurable input fields. When the plugin processes these parameters without adequate sanitization or escaping, the system interprets the injected commands as legitimate instructions, leading to arbitrary code execution. This flaw directly maps to CWE-77 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in system calls, and also aligns with CWE-94 which addresses the execution of arbitrary code or commands. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and demonstrates how insufficient input validation can create persistent backdoors for attackers to establish control over WordPress installations.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7527 extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise and potential data breaches. Once attackers gain execution privileges, they can manipulate the WordPress environment to install additional malware, steal sensitive data, modify content, or establish persistent access through backdoor installations. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation running the affected plugin version, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited across numerous websites without requiring specific user interaction beyond accessing the administrative interface. This creates a significant risk for organizations relying on WordPress platforms where the vulnerable plugin has been installed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-7527 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the input validation flaws, as the vendor has likely released patches to resolve this vulnerability. System administrators must also implement input validation measures at multiple layers including web application firewalls, proper parameter sanitization, and regular security audits of installed plugins. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 which covers command and scripting interpreters, highlighting the need for comprehensive monitoring of command execution patterns. Additional protective measures include restricting administrative access, implementing least privilege principles, and conducting regular vulnerability assessments to identify similar injection flaws in other components of the WordPress ecosystem. Organizations should also consider network segmentation and monitoring for unusual command execution patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.