CVE-2015-9306 in wp-ultimate-csv-importer Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The wp-ultimate-csv-importer plugin before 3.8.1 for WordPress has XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2023
The wp-ultimate-csv-importer plugin for WordPress contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that affects versions prior to 3.8.1, representing a critical security flaw that could be exploited by attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of affected websites. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a common weakness in web applications and is listed in the OWASP Top Ten as one of the most prevalent security risks. The vulnerability specifically exists in the plugin's handling of user input during CSV import operations, where improperly sanitized data can be injected into web pages viewed by other users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when administrators or users with appropriate privileges import CSV data through the wp-ultimate-csv-importer plugin. The plugin fails to adequately sanitize or escape user-supplied data before rendering it in web pages, creating an opportunity for attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code. When the imported data contains script tags or other malicious payloads, these elements can be executed in the browsers of other users who view the affected content, particularly during import reports or data display operations. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through legitimate import functionality, making it difficult to distinguish between benign and malicious data.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including session hijacking, defacement of website content, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability could potentially gain access to administrative accounts, modify website content, steal sensitive information from users, or redirect them to malicious sites. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that CSV import functionality is commonly used in business environments where administrators might import data from external sources, increasing the likelihood of encountering malicious input. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments and T1059.001 for command and control through script injection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the wp-ultimate-csv-importer plugin to version 3.8.1 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms. System administrators should also implement additional security measures such as input validation at multiple layers, content security policies to restrict script execution, and regular security audits of installed plugins. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, and establish procedures for monitoring import activities and validating data integrity. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and output escaping as fundamental security practices, particularly in web applications that handle user-supplied data, and serves as a reminder of the critical need for regular security updates and patch management processes.