CVE-2016-10939 in xtremelocator Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The xtremelocator plugin 1.5 for WordPress has SQL injection via the id parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2023
The xtremelocator plugin version 1.5 for WordPress contains a critical SQL injection vulnerability that arises from improper input validation in the id parameter handling. This flaw exists within the plugin's database query construction logic where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into SQL statements without adequate sanitization or parameterization. The vulnerability represents a classic instance of improper input handling that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through maliciously crafted input values. The plugin's failure to implement proper input validation mechanisms creates an exploitable entry point for malicious actors seeking to compromise the WordPress installation. Security researchers have identified this as a significant risk due to the widespread adoption of WordPress and its plugins, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where multiple sites may be running the affected version.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker submits a malicious id parameter value that contains SQL payload constructs. The plugin's code processes this input directly within database query strings, enabling attackers to inject arbitrary SQL commands that execute with the privileges of the database user associated with the WordPress installation. This allows for full database access, enabling data extraction, modification, or deletion operations. The vulnerability specifically affects the plugin's functionality that handles location data retrieval, where the id parameter is used to fetch specific records from the database. Attackers can leverage this flaw to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive information from the database, or even escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. The SQL injection occurs at the application layer where the plugin interfaces with the database, making it particularly effective against poorly configured database access controls.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with comprehensive access to the WordPress site's underlying database infrastructure. Successful exploitation can lead to complete site compromise, data loss, or unauthorized modifications to site content and user accounts. The vulnerability affects all WordPress installations running version 1.5 of the xtremelocator plugin, making it a widespread concern across numerous websites. Organizations using this plugin face significant risks including potential disclosure of user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored in the database. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access through database-level backdoors or to manipulate site functionality through malicious data injection. Additionally, the compromised site may be used as a launchpad for further attacks against other systems within the network infrastructure.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including plugin updates to versions that address the SQL injection flaw, typically through proper input validation and parameterized query implementation. System administrators should implement web application firewalls to detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts targeting the affected parameter. Database access controls should be reviewed and hardened to limit the privileges of the WordPress database user, preventing attackers from executing destructive operations even if they successfully exploit the vulnerability. Regular security audits should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other plugins and themes. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should be addressed through proper input sanitization and parameterized queries. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to technique T1190 for exploitation of remote services and T1078 for valid accounts, as attackers may use the compromised system to establish persistent access and maintain control over the affected WordPress installation.