CVE-2016-1000217 in Zotpress Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Zotpress plugin for WordPress SQLi in zp_get_account()
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/23/2019
The CVE-2016-1000217 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw discovered in the Zotpress plugin for WordPress, specifically within the zp_get_account() function. This vulnerability affects numerous WordPress installations that utilize the Zotpress plugin, which is designed to integrate bibliographic data from various sources including Zotero, into WordPress websites. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data within the plugin's core functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the underlying database.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the zp_get_account() function processes user input without adequate filtering or escaping mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious SQL payloads through parameters that are directly passed to database queries. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as a SQL injection weakness, where the plugin fails to properly escape special characters and SQL metacharacters in user-provided input. This allows an attacker to manipulate the database query structure and potentially extract sensitive information, modify database contents, or even gain unauthorized administrative access to the WordPress installation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable complete compromise of affected WordPress sites. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to user credentials, database contents, and potentially allow attackers to establish persistent backdoors within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it affects a widely used plugin, meaning that attackers can target numerous websites simultaneously without requiring specific knowledge of individual site configurations. This makes the vulnerability a prime target for automated exploitation tools and increases the potential attack surface significantly.
Security practitioners should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the patched version of the Zotpress plugin, which addresses the SQL injection vulnerability through proper input sanitization and parameterized queries. Network administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts targeting known vulnerable functions. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application, highlighting the importance of regular security assessments and patch management procedures. Organizations should also conduct thorough security audits of their WordPress installations to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins and ensure that all third-party components are regularly updated and maintained according to security best practices.