CVE-2015-9356 in WP-ViperGB Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The wp-vipergb plugin before 1.3.16 for WordPress has XSS via add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg(), a different issue than CVE-2014-9460.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2023
The wp-vipergb plugin vulnerability CVE-2015-9356 represents a cross-site scripting weakness that affected versions prior to 1.3.16 within the WordPress ecosystem. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of URL query parameters through the add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into web pages viewed by unsuspecting users. Unlike CVE-2014-9460 which addressed similar concerns, this particular flaw manifested through distinct implementation flaws in how the plugin processed query arguments, making it a separate but equally dangerous security concern.
The technical flaw stems from insufficient input sanitization and output encoding within the plugin's core functions. When the wp-vipergb plugin processes user-supplied data through add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() operations, it fails to properly escape or validate the parameters before incorporating them into dynamic web content. This inadequate sanitization allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users' browsers when they visit pages that utilize the vulnerable plugin functionality. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and specifically affects WordPress installations using the affected plugin version, creating a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across various user sessions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, data exfiltration, and redirection to malicious websites. Users who visit compromised WordPress sites may unknowingly execute malicious code that can capture their authentication tokens, monitor their browsing behavior, or redirect them to phishing sites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages legitimate WordPress functions that are commonly used throughout the platform, making the attack surface more extensive and harder to detect through traditional security monitoring approaches.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigation strategies including updating to wp-vipergb plugin version 1.3.16 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, administrators should conduct comprehensive security audits of their WordPress installations to identify any other potentially vulnerable plugins or themes that may exhibit similar patterns of insufficient input validation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which describes cross-site scripting flaws in web applications, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for scripting languages in command and control contexts. Organizations should also consider implementing content security policies and regular security scanning to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components of their web applications.