CVE-2015-7682 in Pie Register Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in pie-register/pie-register.php in the Pie Register plugin before 2.0.19 for WordPress allow remote administrators to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) select_invitaion_code_bulk_option or (2) invi_del_id parameter in the pie-invitation-codes page to wp-admin/admin.php.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/22/2022
The CVE-2015-7682 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw in the Pie Register WordPress plugin, affecting versions prior to 2.0.19. This vulnerability specifically targets the administrative interface of the plugin, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands. The flaw exists within the pie-register/pie-register.php file and manifests through two distinct parameter injection points that operate within the wp-admin/admin.php context, making it particularly dangerous as it directly impacts the WordPress administration panel where privileged users perform critical system operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's administrative handling code. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating the select_invitaion_code_bulk_option or invi_del_id parameters through the pie-invitation-codes page interface. These parameters are processed without proper escaping or parameterization, allowing malicious SQL payloads to be injected directly into the database query execution chain. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection as a fundamental weakness in data validation and input sanitization practices. The attack vector operates through the administrative interface where legitimate administrators perform bulk operations on invitation codes, making the exploitation particularly stealthy as it mimics normal administrative behavior.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with complete database manipulation capabilities. Remote administrators who gain access through this vulnerability can execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially leading to data exfiltration, database corruption, privilege escalation, or even complete system compromise. The attack scenario becomes particularly concerning when considering that the vulnerability targets administrative functions, meaning that successful exploitation could allow attackers to modify or delete invitation codes, potentially disrupting user registration processes or gaining unauthorized access to the WordPress installation. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1046 which involves network service scanning, as attackers would need to identify the vulnerable plugin and exploit it through legitimate administrative interfaces.
The mitigation strategy for CVE-2015-7682 involves immediate patching of the Pie Register plugin to version 2.0.19 or later, which contains the necessary input sanitization fixes. Administrators should also implement additional security measures including restricting administrative access through IP whitelisting, implementing strong authentication controls, and monitoring for unusual administrative activities. The vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping all WordPress plugins updated and following secure coding practices such as parameterized queries and input validation. Organizations should conduct regular security audits of their WordPress installations to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or themes. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring can provide additional layers of protection against SQL injection attacks. The remediation process should include verification that all administrative functions properly sanitize user inputs and that no legacy code paths remain vulnerable to similar injection attacks.