CVE-2017-1002015 in image-gallery-with-slideshow
Summary
by MITRE
Vulnerability in wordpress plugin image-gallery-with-slideshow v1.5.2, Blind SQL Injection in image-gallery-with-slideshow/admin_setting.php via selectMulGallery parameter.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/16/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-1002015 represents a critical blind sql injection flaw within the image-gallery-with-slideshow wordpress plugin version 1.5.2. This vulnerability specifically affects the administrative settings interface where the selectMulGallery parameter is processed without adequate input validation or sanitization. The flaw exists in the admin_setting.php file which handles user input from the administrative dashboard, making it accessible to authenticated users with sufficient privileges to modify plugin settings.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper parameter handling within the plugin's backend code where user-supplied data from the selectMulGallery parameter is directly incorporated into sql query construction without appropriate escaping or parameterization. This blind sql injection vulnerability allows an attacker to manipulate database queries through crafted input, potentially enabling data extraction, modification, or deletion. The blind nature of the injection means that the attacker cannot directly observe query results through error messages or response data, requiring more sophisticated techniques such as time-based or boolean-based inference to extract information from the database.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it provides attackers with potential access to sensitive administrative information and could serve as a stepping stone for further attacks within the wordpress environment. An attacker with access to the administrative interface could leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges, extract user credentials, or modify plugin configurations to maintain persistent access. The vulnerability affects the integrity and confidentiality of the wordpress installation, particularly when the plugin is used in environments where administrative access is not properly restricted. This flaw aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities, and represents a direct violation of secure coding practices that require input validation and proper parameterization of database queries.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 1.5.3 or later where the sql injection flaw has been addressed. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation and sanitization measures within the plugin's code to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components. Network segmentation and access controls should be enforced to limit administrative access to only authorized personnel, reducing the attack surface. The principle of least privilege should be applied to all user accounts with administrative capabilities, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify potential sql injection vulnerabilities in other plugins or custom code. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. This vulnerability demonstrates the importance of regular security assessments and prompt patch management in maintaining wordpress security posture, aligning with ATT&CK techniques related to credential access and privilege escalation through software vulnerabilities.