CVE-2015-7670 in Support Ticket System Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in includes/update.php in the Support Ticket System plugin before 1.2.1 for WordPress allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) user or (2) id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2019
The CVE-2015-7670 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Support Ticket System WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.2.1. This vulnerability manifests as multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities within the includes/update.php file, creating a significant attack surface for remote threat actors. The affected plugin was widely used for managing customer support tickets within WordPress environments, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous as it could compromise entire WordPress installations. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft, as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially leading to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive customer information.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through manipulation of two specific parameters within the update.php file: the user parameter and the id parameter. These parameters are not properly sanitized or validated before being incorporated into SQL queries, creating opportunities for attackers to inject malicious SQL code. The flaw directly relates to CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection vulnerabilities as a fundamental weakness in application security where untrusted data is directly included in SQL commands without proper escaping or parameterization. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability by crafting malicious input that alters the intended SQL query execution flow, potentially gaining access to database credentials, user information, or even administrative privileges within the WordPress system.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-7670 extends far beyond simple data manipulation, as successful exploitation can result in complete system compromise and persistent access to affected WordPress installations. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the Support Ticket System plugin face risks including unauthorized data access, potential data modification or deletion, and possible privilege escalation attacks. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require local system access or authentication to exploit the flaw, making it particularly attractive for automated attacks. This type of vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which describes the use of application layer protocols for command and control activities, as attackers can use the SQL injection to establish persistent access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-7670 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 1.2.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to prevent SQL injection attacks. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including input validation, parameterized queries, and web application firewalls to protect against similar vulnerabilities. Database access controls should be reviewed to ensure that applications use least-privilege principles, limiting the potential damage from successful attacks. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual SQL query patterns and unauthorized database access attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins or components within their WordPress environments. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping all WordPress plugins and themes updated, as outdated components often represent the most common entry points for attackers targeting WordPress installations.