CVE-2015-9368 in Easy EU Value Added
Summary
by MITRE
Easy EU Value Added (VAT) Taxes Add-on for iThemes Exchange before 1.2.0 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-2015-9368 vulnerability affects the Easy EU Value Added Tax (VAT) Taxes Add-on for iThemes Exchange plugin, specifically versions prior to 1.2.0 running on WordPress platforms. This vulnerability represents a cross-site scripting flaw that arises from improper input validation and output encoding within the plugin's handling of URL query parameters. The issue manifests through the use of add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions without adequate sanitization of user-supplied data, creating an attack surface where malicious actors can inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's administrative interface and frontend functionality where query parameters are processed and displayed without proper security controls.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker crafts malicious URL parameters that contain script code within the query string. When these parameters are processed through the add_query_arg() or remove_query_arg() functions, the malicious code bypasses normal input validation mechanisms and gets executed in the context of other users' browsers. This creates a persistent XSS attack vector that can be leveraged to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect victims to malicious websites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the WordPress plugin level, where attackers can potentially gain access to administrative functions and user data through the compromised plugin interface.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9368 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to WordPress sites running vulnerable versions of the iThemes Exchange plugin. Security researchers have classified this vulnerability under CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting issues. The attack surface includes not only the direct injection of malicious scripts but also the potential for attackers to escalate privileges through session hijacking or credential theft. This vulnerability affects WordPress administrators and users who interact with the plugin's administrative interface, making it a significant concern for e-commerce sites that rely on proper tax calculation and management functionality.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9368 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 1.2.0 or later, which contain the necessary patches to address the XSS vulnerability. Organizations should also implement proper input validation and output encoding practices throughout their WordPress environments, particularly for any custom or third-party plugins that handle URL parameters. Security professionals should monitor for similar vulnerabilities in other plugins using the same patterns of add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions without proper sanitization. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.008 - Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as it involves the execution of malicious scripts through web-based interfaces, though the specific technique is more accurately described as web-based script injection. Additionally, implementing content security policies and regular security audits of WordPress plugins can help prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future, as recommended by the OWASP Top Ten Project guidelines for web application security.