CVE-2015-9360 in UpdraftPlus Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The updraftplus plugin before 1.9.64 for WordPress has XSS via add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg().
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/07/2023
The CVE-2015-9360 vulnerability affects the updraftplus WordPress plugin version 1.9.64 and earlier, representing a cross-site scripting flaw that exploits improper input sanitization within the plugin's administrative interface. This vulnerability specifically targets the add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions, which are commonly used WordPress utility functions for manipulating URLs and query parameters. The flaw allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into URL parameters that are then executed in the context of other users' browsers when they visit affected pages. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into dynamic URLs, creating an avenue for persistent XSS attacks that can compromise user sessions and execute unauthorized actions.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability leverages the WordPress core functions add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() which are designed to safely manipulate URL query strings. However, the updraftplus plugin fails to sanitize the input parameters passed to these functions, allowing malicious payloads to be embedded directly into URL parameters. When administrators or users navigate to pages containing these unsanitized parameters, the malicious scripts execute in their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or unauthorized administrative actions. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, specifically manifesting as a reflected XSS attack vector that exploits the plugin's insecure handling of query parameters.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9360 extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. An attacker could craft malicious URLs that, when visited by an administrator, would execute scripts that steal session cookies or perform unauthorized modifications to the WordPress installation. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the administrative interface where users have elevated privileges, making it a prime target for privilege escalation attacks. From an attacker's perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as the malicious payloads can be crafted to execute arbitrary commands or scripts within the browser context of privileged users. The attack surface is further expanded because the vulnerability affects the plugin's URL handling mechanisms, which are frequently accessed during normal administrative operations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9360 require immediate patching of the updraftplus plugin to version 1.9.64 or later, which contains the necessary input sanitization fixes. Organizations should also implement input validation measures at the web application firewall level to detect and block suspicious URL parameters containing script tags or common XSS payload patterns. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins should include verification of input sanitization practices, particularly for functions that manipulate URL parameters. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper parameter validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, where all user-supplied data should be treated as potentially malicious and properly escaped before being incorporated into dynamic content. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing Content Security Policy headers to further mitigate the impact of potential XSS attacks by restricting script execution sources.