CVE-2018-10102 in WordPress
Summary
by MITRE
Before WordPress 4.9.5, the version string was not escaped in the get_the_generator function, and could lead to XSS in a generator tag.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/28/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2018-10102 represents a cross-site scripting weakness in WordPress versions prior to 4.9.5, specifically within the get_the_generator function. This flaw arises from insufficient output escaping of version strings in generator tags, creating a potential vector for malicious code execution. The issue stems from the function's failure to properly sanitize dynamic content before rendering it in HTML output, allowing attackers to inject malicious scripts that could execute in the context of other users' browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when WordPress generates HTML markup containing version information in generator tags. These tags typically appear in the head section of web pages and contain metadata about the platform version. In vulnerable versions, the get_the_generator function fails to apply proper HTML escaping to the version string, which may contain user-controllable data or be influenced by external inputs. When this unescaped content is rendered in the browser, it creates an XSS attack surface where malicious scripts can be executed in the context of authenticated users.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and data exfiltration. Attackers could exploit this weakness to inject malicious JavaScript that targets authenticated users, potentially compromising entire WordPress installations. The vulnerability particularly affects sites that allow user-generated content or have plugins that modify version strings, as these scenarios increase the attack surface for malicious input injection. The XSS nature of the flaw means that successful exploitation could lead to complete compromise of user sessions and potentially full system control.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-10102 primarily involve upgrading to WordPress version 4.9.5 or later, which includes proper output escaping in the get_the_generator function. System administrators should also implement comprehensive input validation and output sanitization practices throughout their WordPress installations, following secure coding guidelines such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which describes cross-site scripting flaws, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059.007 for script execution. Organizations should also consider implementing Content Security Policy headers as an additional defense-in-depth measure to limit the impact of potential XSS attacks. Regular security audits and patch management processes are essential for maintaining WordPress security posture and preventing exploitation of similar vulnerabilities in the future.