CVE-2017-18573 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 • 12/01/2023
The CVE-2017-18573 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the simple-login-log plugin for WordPress systems. This vulnerability affects versions prior to 1.1.2 and exposes WordPress installations to potential unauthorized access and data compromise. The plugin's failure to properly sanitize user input creates an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate database queries through maliciously crafted inputs. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of login authentication data, where user credentials and session information are processed. This flaw operates at the application layer and can be exploited without requiring administrative privileges or advanced technical knowledge, making it particularly dangerous for widespread exploitation. The issue falls under the category of insecure data handling and improper input validation, which are fundamental security weaknesses that undermine the integrity of web applications.
The technical implementation of this sql injection vulnerability occurs when the plugin processes login attempts and stores user session information in the database. Attackers can manipulate the input fields used for login authentication, specifically targeting parameters that are directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The vulnerability allows for arbitrary sql command execution, potentially enabling attackers to extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even escalate privileges within the affected WordPress installation. This type of vulnerability typically manifests when user-supplied data is concatenated directly into sql statements rather than being properly escaped or parameterized. The flaw demonstrates poor coding practices that violate established security principles and can be classified under common weakness enumeration cwes such as cwe-89 sql injection or cwe-20 improper input validation. The attack surface is particularly broad since login functionality is fundamental to any web application and is continuously accessed by users.
The operational impact of CVE-2017-18573 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access user credentials, personal information, and potentially gain administrative control over WordPress installations. The vulnerability affects not only the immediate user data but also the underlying database infrastructure that stores login logs, user accounts, and other sensitive operational information. This type of vulnerability can be exploited through automated scanning tools and is particularly dangerous in environments where multiple WordPress installations are deployed. The attack vector typically involves sending specially crafted requests to the login endpoint, where the plugin's sql injection occurs. The vulnerability can be exploited to perform union-based sql injection attacks, time-based blind sql injection, or error-based sql injection techniques, all of which provide varying degrees of access to the underlying database. According to the attack technique framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques such as t1213.002 sql injection and t1071.004 application layer protocol and can be classified under the broader category of persistent threats that can remain undetected for extended periods.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2017-18573 require immediate patching of the vulnerable plugin to version 1.1.2 or later, which implements proper input validation and sql query sanitization. Organizations should also implement proper database access controls and monitoring to detect unusual sql query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security updates and proper input validation practices in web application development. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls, restricting database user privileges, and conducting regular security audits of third-party plugins. Organizations should also consider implementing intrusion detection systems to monitor for sql injection attempts and ensure that all plugins undergo security review before deployment. The remediation process should include thorough testing of the patched version to ensure that functionality remains intact while security is properly addressed. Security teams should also establish monitoring procedures to detect potential exploitation attempts and maintain up-to-date threat intelligence regarding similar vulnerabilities in other plugins. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of maintaining current security patches and the risks associated with outdated third-party components in web applications.