CVE-2017-1002013 in image-gallery-with-slideshow
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in wordpress plugin image-gallery-with-slideshow v1.5.2, Blind SQL Injection via imgid parameter in image-gallery-with-slideshow/admin_setting.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1002013 represents a critical blind sql injection flaw within the image-gallery-with-slideshow wordpress plugin version 1.5.2. This vulnerability specifically affects the admin_setting.php file where the imgid parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. The issue arises from the plugin's failure to properly escape or filter user-supplied data before incorporating it into database queries, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands within the affected wordpress installation's database context. The blind nature of this injection means that attackers cannot directly observe database query results through error messages or direct output, requiring them to infer successful injection through indirect methods such as timing delays or conditional responses.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the administrative interface of the plugin. When administrators access the settings page or perform operations involving image management, the imgid parameter is directly incorporated into sql queries without proper prepared statement usage or input sanitization. This flaw aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is concatenated or inserted into sql commands without proper escaping or parameterization. The vulnerability exists at the application layer where user input flows directly into database operations, bypassing standard security controls that would normally prevent such malicious data processing. Attackers can leverage this weakness to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or potentially escalate privileges within the wordpress environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with persistent access to the affected wordpress installation's database. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to view, modify, or delete all images managed by the gallery plugin, access administrator credentials stored in the database, or even gain deeper system access if the database user has elevated privileges. The vulnerability affects wordpress installations where this specific plugin version is active, potentially compromising thousands of websites that have not updated to patched versions. From an attack perspective, this vulnerability maps to multiple ATT&CK techniques including T1078 for valid accounts and T1046 for network service scanning, as attackers may use the compromised plugin to establish persistent access and expand their reconnaissance activities. The vulnerability's persistence is particularly concerning as it remains exploitable until the plugin is updated or removed from the wordpress installation.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action from wordpress administrators to update the affected plugin to a patched version that properly implements input validation and sql parameterization. The recommended approach includes upgrading to the latest plugin version where sql injection protections have been implemented, typically through the use of prepared statements or proper escaping functions. System administrators should also implement web application firewalls that can detect and block sql injection attempts targeting known vulnerable parameters. Additionally, regular security audits should be conducted to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities across all installed plugins and themes. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and proper database query construction practices as outlined in OWASP top ten security risks, specifically addressing the need for proper parameterization of database queries to prevent sql injection attacks. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely updates of all wordpress components and reduce exposure windows for known vulnerabilities.