CVE-2017-14507 in Content Timeline Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
Multiple SQL injection vulnerabilities in the Content Timeline plugin 4.4.2 for WordPress allow remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the (1) timeline parameter in content_timeline_class.php; or the id parameter to (2) pages/content_timeline_edit.php or (3) pages/content_timeline_index.php.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/17/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-14507 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Content Timeline plugin version 4.4.2 for WordPress platforms. This security weakness stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, specifically affecting three distinct entry points that process user-supplied data. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of the WordPress content management system by exposing database interaction points to malicious input that can be exploited without authentication. The flaw manifests through three separate parameters: timeline in content_timeline_class.php, and id parameters in both pages/content_timeline_edit.php and pages/content_timeline_index.php, creating multiple attack vectors for potential exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which defines SQL injection as the insertion of malicious SQL queries into input data that is then processed by database systems. The plugin fails to properly escape or validate user input before incorporating it into SQL command strings, allowing attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted payloads. When the timeline parameter or id parameters are submitted with malicious SQL code, the application processes these inputs directly within database queries without appropriate sanitization measures. This lack of input validation creates a direct pathway for attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive data, modifying database contents, or even escalating privileges within the affected WordPress installation.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-14507 extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with significant control over the affected WordPress environment. Successful exploitation could result in complete database compromise, allowing unauthorized users to extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and administrative access details. The vulnerability's remote nature means that attackers do not require physical access or local network privileges to exploit the flaw, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible WordPress installations. Furthermore, the presence of multiple attack vectors increases the probability of successful exploitation, as attackers can target any of the three vulnerable endpoints depending on which one is more accessible or better protected. This vulnerability directly maps to several ATT&CK techniques including T1071.004 for application layer protocols and T1190 for exploitation of remote services, demonstrating how the flaw can be leveraged within broader attack frameworks.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple mitigation strategies to protect their WordPress installations. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest version of the Content Timeline plugin where the SQL injection vulnerabilities have been addressed through proper input validation and parameterized queries. System administrators should also implement web application firewalls to monitor and filter malicious SQL injection attempts targeting these specific parameters. Additionally, database access controls should be reviewed to ensure that WordPress database accounts have minimal required privileges, following the principle of least privilege. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual database query patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts, and regular security audits should be conducted to identify other potential SQL injection vulnerabilities within the WordPress ecosystem. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping WordPress plugins updated and implementing proper input validation measures across all application components to prevent similar security incidents.