CVE-2018-17586 in WP Fastest Cache Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The WP Fastest Cache plugin 0.8.8.5 for WordPress has XSS via the rules[0][content] parameter in a wpfc_save_timeout_pages action.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/29/2023
The WP Fastest Cache plugin version 0.8.8.5 for WordPress contains a cross-site scripting vulnerability that arises from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the wpfc_save_timeout_pages action handler. This vulnerability specifically affects the rules[0][content] parameter which is processed without proper sanitization, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the application's response. The flaw exists in the plugin's administrative interface where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into HTML output without appropriate encoding or validation measures.
This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is classified as a critical security weakness in web applications. The attack vector occurs when an authenticated administrator or privileged user visits a malicious page or when the vulnerable parameter is manipulated through a crafted request. The XSS flaw can be exploited to execute malicious scripts in the context of the victim's browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized administrative actions. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it resides within the plugin's cache management functionality, which is typically accessed by users with elevated privileges.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can enable attackers to establish persistent access to compromised WordPress installations. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can manipulate cache settings, potentially causing denial of service conditions or redirecting users to malicious content. The vulnerability also represents a path for privilege escalation attacks, as the administrative context in which the exploit occurs provides access to sensitive system functions. Additionally, the XSS payload could be crafted to steal cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive data transmitted between the user and the WordPress application, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1546.001 for credential access through modification of authentication tokens.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the WP Fastest Cache plugin to version 0.8.8.6 or later, which contains the necessary input validation fixes. Administrators should also implement additional security measures including input sanitization at multiple layers, output encoding for all dynamic content, and regular security audits of installed plugins. The principle of least privilege should be enforced by limiting administrative access to only necessary users and implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests. Organizations should also consider implementing Content Security Policy headers to prevent execution of unauthorized scripts, and regular monitoring of plugin update processes to ensure timely deployment of security patches. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of validating and sanitizing all user-supplied input, particularly within administrative interfaces where the potential for damage is significantly higher than in standard user-facing components.