CVE-2015-9457 in pretty-link Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The pretty-link plugin before 1.6.8 for WordPress has PrliLinksController::list_links SQL injection via the group parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/13/2025
The CVE-2015-9457 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the pretty-link WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions prior to 1.6.8. This vulnerability resides in the PrliLinksController::list_links method where user input from the group parameter is improperly sanitized before being incorporated into database queries. The flaw allows authenticated attackers with sufficient privileges to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the WordPress database, potentially leading to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. The vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices and highlights the importance of proper parameter sanitization in web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly escape or validate the group parameter before using it in SQL query construction. When an authenticated user submits a malicious value through the group parameter, the application directly incorporates this input into database queries without adequate sanitization. This creates an environment where attackers can manipulate the SQL execution flow and potentially extract sensitive information, modify database records, or even execute administrative commands. The vulnerability specifically affects the list_links functionality, which is commonly used to display and manage link groups within the plugin's interface. This SQL injection vector operates through the standard WordPress plugin architecture where user-supplied parameters are processed without proper validation mechanisms.
The operational impact of CVE-2015-9457 extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables attackers to gain persistent access to WordPress installations and potentially escalate privileges within the broader web application environment. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could retrieve administrator credentials, modify or delete content, install backdoors, or use the compromised system as a launch point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected WordPress installation, with potential cascading effects on other systems that may rely on the compromised database. Given that WordPress plugins often have broad access to system resources and user data, this vulnerability represents a significant threat to web application security and aligns with attack patterns documented in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the technique of SQL injection and privilege escalation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2015-9457 primarily involve immediate patching of the pretty-link plugin to version 1.6.8 or later, which implements proper input validation and sanitization measures. Organizations should also implement additional security controls including web application firewalls, database query monitoring, and regular security audits of installed plugins. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and adheres to CWE-89 standards for SQL injection prevention. Security teams should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially affected plugins and ensure that all WordPress installations follow security best practices including input validation, output encoding, and principle of least privilege access controls. The remediation process should include monitoring for suspicious database activity and implementing proper access controls to limit the potential impact of future vulnerabilities.