CVE-2015-9374 in Stripe Add-on for iThemes Exchange
Summary
by MITRE
Stripe 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 vulnerability identified as CVE-2015-9374 affects the Stripe Add-on for iThemes Exchange plugin version prior to 1.2.0 within the WordPress ecosystem. This security flaw resides in how the plugin handles URL parameter manipulation through the WordPress functions add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() which are commonly used for constructing and modifying URLs in WordPress applications. The issue manifests as a cross-site scripting vulnerability that could potentially allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a victim's browser session.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output sanitization within the plugin's handling of URL parameters. When the plugin processes user-supplied data through the add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions, it fails to properly sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into dynamic URLs that are subsequently rendered in web pages. This creates an environment where malicious actors can inject crafted script code into URL parameters that get executed when the page loads, particularly when the parameters are used in HTML contexts such as form actions or JavaScript execution contexts.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection as it represents a critical security risk for WordPress sites utilizing the affected plugin. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform session hijacking, deface websites, steal sensitive information from authenticated users, or redirect users to malicious sites. The vulnerability affects any user who has access to the plugin's administrative interfaces or any endpoint that processes user-supplied URL parameters, potentially compromising the entire WordPress installation if attackers can escalate privileges through the XSS vector. This type of vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws as a critical weakness in web applications.
The exploitation of this vulnerability typically requires an attacker to craft malicious URLs containing script code that gets processed through the vulnerable add_query_arg() and remove_query_arg() functions. When legitimate users with appropriate privileges access these malformed URLs, the injected scripts execute in their browser context, potentially allowing attackers to steal cookies, session tokens, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of the victim. This vulnerability particularly impacts WordPress sites that rely on the iThemes Exchange platform for e-commerce functionality, making it attractive to attackers targeting online stores and financial transaction systems. The threat landscape for this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering attacks through malicious links, and T1059 which involves the execution of malicious code through web-based interfaces.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately upgrade to version 1.2.0 or later of the Stripe Add-on for iThemes Exchange plugin to receive the necessary security patches. System administrators should implement comprehensive input validation and output sanitization measures across all WordPress plugins and themes to prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. The remediation process should include thorough code reviews of all URL parameter handling functions and implementation of proper HTML escaping techniques before rendering dynamic content. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and security monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and address similar weaknesses in other WordPress plugins and custom applications.