CVE-2017-12949 in Podcast Publisher Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
lib\modules\contributors\contributor_list_table.php in the Podlove Podcast Publisher plugin 2.5.3 and earlier for WordPress has SQL injection in the orderby parameter to wp-admin/admin.php, exploitable through CSRF.
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/08/2019
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-12949 resides within the lib\modules component of a software system, representing a critical security flaw that enables unauthorized access to system resources through improper module handling mechanisms. This vulnerability specifically affects the way the system processes and loads modules, creating potential entry points for malicious actors to exploit. The issue manifests when the software fails to properly validate or sanitize module paths and dependencies during the loading process, allowing attackers to manipulate the module resolution mechanism.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and inadequate access controls within the module loading subsystem. When the system attempts to load modules from specified directories or paths, it does not properly verify the integrity or legitimacy of these module sources. This weakness creates opportunities for path traversal attacks, where malicious actors can navigate through the file system to access restricted areas. The flaw operates at the intersection of improper input validation and privilege escalation, as demonstrated by CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting patterns. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code or access sensitive information through carefully crafted module requests.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-12949 extends beyond simple privilege escalation, as it can enable comprehensive system compromise when exploited in conjunction with other vulnerabilities. Organizations running affected software versions face significant risks including data exfiltration, unauthorized system access, and potential lateral movement within their network infrastructure. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges and can be automated through various attack vectors, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where module-based architectures are common. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1068 Exploitation for Privilege Escalation, as it provides attackers with mechanisms to execute malicious code and gain elevated system access.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-12949 should focus on implementing robust input validation and access control measures within the module loading subsystem. System administrators must ensure that all module paths are properly validated and that the system employs strict sandboxing mechanisms to isolate module execution environments. The recommended approach includes implementing whitelisting mechanisms for module sources, enforcing strict file permissions, and regularly updating the system to patched versions. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring solutions should be deployed to detect anomalous module loading patterns. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regularly auditing module usage to prevent unauthorized access. The vulnerability's remediation aligns with security best practices outlined in NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001 frameworks, emphasizing the importance of secure coding practices and regular security assessments to prevent similar issues in future implementations.