CVE-2017-18514 in simple-login-log Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The simple-login-log plugin before 1.1.2 for WordPress has SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/25/2023
The CVE-2017-18514 vulnerability affects the simple-login-log WordPress plugin version 1.1.1 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that allows unauthorized users to execute malicious SQL commands against the affected WordPress installation. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of user input within login logging functionality, creating an exploitable path for attackers to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and improper parameter sanitization within the plugin's codebase, which directly violates fundamental secure coding practices and industry security standards.
The technical implementation of this SQL injection vulnerability occurs when the plugin processes user authentication data without adequate filtering or escaping of special characters that could alter the intended SQL query structure. Attackers can leverage this weakness by submitting malicious input through login-related parameters, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive information from the database, modify existing records, or even delete critical data. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can facilitate privilege escalation attacks, allowing unauthorized users to gain administrative access to WordPress installations. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a classic example of insecure data handling that violates the principle of least privilege and input validation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to WordPress sites using the affected plugin, as it can be exploited by attackers with minimal technical expertise to compromise entire websites. The attack surface is particularly concerning given that WordPress remains one of the most widely used content management systems, with countless installations potentially vulnerable to this type of exploitation. The vulnerability can be leveraged to extract user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored in the database, while also potentially enabling attackers to inject malicious code or establish persistent access. Organizations running vulnerable installations face potential regulatory compliance violations, reputational damage, and financial losses from data breaches, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where data protection is paramount.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate upgrade to version 1.1.2 or later of the simple-login-log plugin, which includes proper input sanitization and parameter binding mechanisms that prevent malicious SQL commands from being executed. System administrators should also implement additional security measures including regular security audits, input validation at multiple layers, and monitoring for suspicious login patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts. Organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block SQL injection attempts, while also ensuring that all WordPress installations maintain current versions of core software and plugins. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping third-party components updated and following secure coding practices, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security standards, which emphasize that SQL injection remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws requiring immediate remediation.