CVE-2017-18611 in magic-fields Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The magic-fields plugin before 1.7.2 for WordPress has XSS via the RCCWP_CreateCustomFieldPage.php custom-field-css parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/19/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2017-18611 affects the magic-fields plugin for WordPress, specifically versions prior to 1.7.2, presenting a cross-site scripting vulnerability through the RCCWP_CreateCustomFieldPage.php script. This issue arises from insufficient input validation and output escaping mechanisms within the custom-field-css parameter handling, creating a pathway for malicious actors to inject arbitrary web scripts into the plugin's administrative interface.
The technical flaw manifests when the plugin processes the custom-field-css parameter without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to craft malicious payloads that execute within the context of authenticated administrator sessions. This vulnerability falls under CWE-79 - Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, which specifically addresses the failure to properly escape or validate user-supplied data before incorporating it into web page content. The exploitation occurs when administrators navigate to the custom field creation page, where the malicious input gets rendered without adequate security measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is significant as it enables attackers to gain elevated privileges and execute arbitrary code within the WordPress environment. An attacker who can convince an administrator to visit a maliciously crafted URL containing the XSS payload can potentially take complete control of the WordPress installation. This includes the ability to modify content, steal session cookies, perform actions as the administrator, and potentially establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's administrative interface, making it particularly dangerous as it requires minimal user interaction beyond visiting a malicious page.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching to version 1.7.2 or later, which includes proper input validation and output escaping mechanisms. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as web application firewalls that can detect and block suspicious parameter values, restrict administrator access through network segmentation, and employ strict input validation policies. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059 - Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables the execution of malicious scripts, and T1548.001 - Abuse Elevation of Privilege, since it allows attackers to escalate their privileges within the WordPress environment. Regular security audits and monitoring of plugin updates remain essential practices for maintaining WordPress security posture and preventing exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.