CVE-2018-21003 in buddyforms Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
The buddyforms plugin before 2.2.8 for WordPress has SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/04/2023
The buddyforms plugin for WordPress represents a critical security vulnerability that has been identified as CVE-2018-21003, affecting versions prior to 2.2.8. This plugin serves as a form building tool that allows website administrators to create custom forms for various purposes including user registration, contact forms, and data collection. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's processing mechanisms, specifically when handling user-submitted data through form fields. The flaw manifests as a SQL injection vulnerability that can be exploited by malicious actors to manipulate the underlying database queries executed by the WordPress installation. This type of vulnerability falls under CWE-89 which categorizes SQL injection as a common weakness in web applications where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the buddyforms plugin is widely used across WordPress installations, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation attempts.
The technical execution of this SQL injection vulnerability occurs when the plugin processes form submissions that contain maliciously crafted input in form fields. Attackers can manipulate the data flow by injecting SQL payload strings that bypass the normal input validation procedures. When the plugin processes these inputs, it directly incorporates them into database queries without proper parameterization or escaping mechanisms. This allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the WordPress database, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information, modifying database records, or even escalating privileges within the affected system. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the database layer, meaning that successful exploitation could lead to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, or modification of core WordPress functionality. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a database access technique under the T1071.004 sub-technique for application layer protocols, specifically targeting the backend database infrastructure that supports WordPress operations.
The operational impact of CVE-2018-21003 extends beyond simple data theft, as it represents a fundamental breach of the application's integrity and confidentiality. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially extract user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored in the WordPress database. The implications are particularly severe for websites that use buddyforms for user registration or membership systems, as the attacker could gain access to user accounts and potentially escalate their privileges to administrative levels. Additionally, the compromise could lead to defacement of the website, injection of malicious content, or the establishment of persistent backdoors within the system. The vulnerability also poses risks to the overall WordPress ecosystem, as compromised sites can become part of botnets or be used as launch points for further attacks against other systems. Organizations running affected versions of the buddyforms plugin face potential regulatory compliance violations, reputational damage, and significant remediation costs associated with the breach. The exploitation of this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1046 for network service scanning, as attackers often probe for vulnerable WordPress installations before attempting exploitation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-21003 primarily focus on immediate remediation through software updates and implementation of additional defensive measures. The most effective solution involves upgrading the buddyforms plugin to version 2.2.8 or later, which includes proper input sanitization and parameterized query handling to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should also implement proper input validation at multiple layers including application-level filtering, database query parameterization, and regular security scanning of their WordPress installations. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious SQL injection attempts, while database access controls should be implemented to limit the privileges of the database user account used by WordPress. Security monitoring should include detection of unusual database access patterns and query execution that may indicate exploitation attempts. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments of WordPress plugins and themes are essential for maintaining system integrity. The remediation process should also include database backups, monitoring for unauthorized access, and implementation of proper access controls to minimize the impact of potential exploitation attempts. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for database connections and ensure that all WordPress components are regularly updated to address known vulnerabilities.