CVE-2018-10969 in Pie Register Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in the Pie Register plugin before 3.0.10 for WordPress allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the invitation codes grid.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/24/2025
The CVE-2018-10969 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Pie Register WordPress plugin ecosystem, specifically affecting versions prior to 3.0.10. This vulnerability exists within the plugin's invitation codes grid functionality, creating a pathway for remote attackers to execute arbitrary sql commands against the underlying database. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization processes within the plugin's codebase, particularly when processing user-supplied data through the invitation codes management interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when the plugin fails to properly escape or parameterize user inputs received through the invitation codes grid. Attackers can manipulate the input fields to inject malicious sql payloads that bypass normal security controls. This allows unauthorized individuals to perform operations such as data extraction, modification, or deletion from the database without proper authentication. The vulnerability specifically impacts the plugin's administrative interface where invitation codes are managed, making it particularly dangerous for sites that rely heavily on user invitation systems for registration control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data compromise, as it enables attackers to gain elevated privileges within the wordpress environment. Successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, allowing attackers to access user credentials, personal information, and potentially escalate their access to the entire wordpress installation. The remote nature of the attack means that threat actors do not require physical access to the server or local network connectivity, making the vulnerability particularly attractive for widespread exploitation. This vulnerability directly aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes sql injection flaws as a fundamental weakness in software security architecture.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability face significant risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments governed by standards such as gdpr, hipaa, or pci dss. The attack surface is expanded when the plugin is used in conjunction with other wordpress components, as the compromised database access can potentially be leveraged for further attacks within the broader application ecosystem. Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 3.0.10 or later, which contain the necessary input validation fixes. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls, database query monitoring, and regular security audits of wordpress installations. The vulnerability also demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the mitre attack framework, where such flaws often serve as initial access vectors for more sophisticated attack chains.
The remediation process requires administrators to conduct thorough vulnerability assessments of their wordpress installations, identifying all instances of the affected plugin and ensuring proper patching procedures are followed. Security teams should monitor for exploitation attempts through log analysis and implement network-based intrusion detection systems to identify potential attack patterns associated with sql injection techniques. Regular security testing and code review processes should be established to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other plugin components or custom wordpress development work. The incident underscores the critical need for maintaining up-to-date security controls and the importance of comprehensive vulnerability management programs that address both known and emerging threats in the wordpress ecosystem.