CVE-2017-18015 in ILLID Share This Image Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The ILLID Share This Image plugin before 1.04 for WordPress has XSS via the sharer.php url parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/30/2024
The CVE-2017-18015 vulnerability affects the ILLID Share This Image plugin version 1.03 and earlier for WordPress platforms, representing a cross-site scripting flaw that poses significant security risks to web applications. This vulnerability specifically manifests through the sharer.php url parameter, which fails to properly sanitize user input before processing. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into web pages viewed by other users. Such vulnerabilities fall under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a critical weakness in web application security. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a code injection technique under the T1566.001 sub-technique, specifically targeting web applications through input validation bypasses.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the plugin processes the url parameter without proper sanitization, creating an environment where malicious payloads can be executed within the context of a victim's browser session. When a user visits a page containing the vulnerable plugin, the malicious JavaScript code embedded in the url parameter executes automatically, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple script execution as it can be leveraged for more sophisticated attacks including phishing campaigns, data exfiltration, or the establishment of backdoors within the compromised WordPress environment. Attackers can craft malicious URLs that, when clicked by unsuspecting users, trigger the execution of harmful scripts that persistently compromise user sessions and browser integrity.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-18015 is particularly severe for WordPress sites utilizing the affected plugin, as it creates persistent security exposure that can affect all users interacting with the vulnerable functionality. Organizations running affected WordPress installations face potential data breaches, unauthorized access to user accounts, and damage to their reputation due to compromised web applications. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill from attackers, making it a popular target for automated scanning tools and mass exploitation campaigns. Security professionals must consider the broader implications of such vulnerabilities within WordPress ecosystems, as they often serve as entry points for more extensive attacks that can compromise entire web infrastructures. The vulnerability's persistence means that once exploited, malicious code can continue to affect users until the plugin is properly updated or the vulnerability is patched through official security releases.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18015 primarily involve immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 1.04 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the vulnerable plugin across their WordPress installations and implement mandatory update policies to prevent future occurrences. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious payloads targeting known XSS vulnerabilities, enforcing strict input validation at all application entry points, and utilizing content security policies to limit script execution capabilities within browser contexts. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect anomalous traffic patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts, while user education programs should emphasize the importance of avoiding suspicious links and maintaining updated software versions to prevent successful exploitation of such vulnerabilities.