CVE-2016-10880 in google-document-embedder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The google-document-embedder plugin before 2.6.1 for WordPress has XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2016-10880 affects the google-document-embedder plugin for WordPress, specifically versions prior to 2.6.1, and represents a cross-site scripting vulnerability that poses significant security risks to affected systems. This plugin enables users to embed Google Documents directly into WordPress posts and pages, creating a seamless integration between WordPress content management and Google's document services. The flaw exists in how the plugin handles user input when processing embedded document URLs, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject malicious scripts into the web application's response. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in web applications, where insufficient validation or sanitization of user-provided data allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the victim's browser.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation within the plugin's document embedding functionality. When users provide Google Document URLs for embedding, the plugin fails to adequately sanitize or escape the input before incorporating it into the HTML output. This oversight allows an attacker to craft malicious URLs containing script tags or other malicious payloads that get executed when the embedded document is rendered in a user's browser. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through various vectors including user comments, contact forms, or any interface where users can input document URLs. Attackers can leverage this flaw to steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users with the privileges of the compromised account.
The operational impact of CVE-2016-10880 extends beyond simple script execution, as it can lead to complete compromise of affected WordPress installations. When an attacker successfully injects malicious JavaScript through this vulnerability, they can establish persistent access to the compromised site, potentially leading to data theft, defacement, or use of the compromised system as a launchpad for further attacks. The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers who do not require elevated privileges, making it particularly concerning for widely used plugins like google-document-embedder. This flaw aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566 which covers social engineering tactics including the use of malicious links and documents to gain initial access. The impact is amplified in environments where WordPress is used for business-critical applications, as successful exploitation can result in significant data breaches, loss of customer trust, and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action to upgrade the affected plugin to version 2.6.1 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the XSS flaw. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures such as input validation at multiple layers, including server-side sanitization of all user-provided data and implementation of Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution. Regular security audits of installed plugins and themes should be conducted to identify other potential vulnerabilities, as this incident demonstrates the importance of keeping all WordPress components updated. The vulnerability also highlights the necessity of following secure coding practices, particularly the principle of least privilege and input sanitization, which are fundamental to preventing XSS attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring systems to detect and block suspicious traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, ensuring comprehensive protection against similar vulnerabilities in the future.