CVE-2019-14801 in FV Flowplayer Video Player
Summary
by MITRE
The FV Flowplayer Video Player plugin before 7.3.15.727 for WordPress allows email subscription SQL injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/23/2023
The CVE-2019-14801 vulnerability represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the FV Flowplayer Video Player plugin for WordPress, affecting versions prior to 7.3.15.727. This vulnerability specifically targets the email subscription functionality of the plugin, creating a pathway for attackers to execute malicious SQL commands against the underlying database. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's subscription handling mechanism, where user-provided email addresses are directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization. This allows malicious actors to manipulate the database queries through specially crafted email inputs, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The vulnerability is particularly concerning as it leverages the plugin's legitimate email subscription feature to gain unauthorized database access, making detection more challenging and exploitation more stealthy.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability follows the classic SQL injection pattern where user input flows directly into database query construction. When users attempt to subscribe via email, the plugin processes this input without proper sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that can alter the intended query behavior. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89 as SQL injection, specifically manifesting in the context of web applications where user input is improperly handled in database operations. Attackers can exploit this weakness to extract sensitive information from the WordPress database, including user credentials, plugin configurations, and potentially other database contents. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it requires no elevated privileges beyond normal user access to the subscription form, making it an attractive target for automated exploitation tools.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-14801 extends beyond simple data theft to encompass potential complete database compromise and further attack escalation. Successful exploitation could enable attackers to modify user accounts, inject malicious content into the WordPress installation, or even escalate privileges within the database. The vulnerability affects WordPress sites using the FV Flowplayer plugin, which is widely deployed across various web properties, amplifying the potential attack surface. From an operational security perspective, this vulnerability can lead to data breaches, regulatory compliance violations, and significant reputational damage for affected organizations. The attack can be executed through automated scanners that target common WordPress plugins, making it a prime candidate for mass exploitation campaigns. Organizations running vulnerable versions face the risk of unauthorized access to their entire WordPress database, potentially compromising the integrity and confidentiality of all stored information.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-14801 focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates to version 7.3.15.727 or later, which addresses the SQL injection vulnerability through proper input validation and sanitization. System administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected plugin across their WordPress installations and ensure prompt patching. Additional defensive measures include implementing web application firewalls to monitor and filter suspicious SQL injection patterns, restricting database user privileges to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation, and regularly monitoring database logs for anomalous query patterns. The remediation process should also include reviewing and strengthening input validation mechanisms across all WordPress plugins and themes to prevent similar vulnerabilities. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unauthorized database access attempts and subscription form manipulations. Organizations should also consider implementing database activity monitoring solutions that can alert on potential SQL injection attempts and maintain regular backups to ensure rapid recovery from potential exploitation incidents. The vulnerability underscores the importance of keeping all WordPress plugins updated and following secure coding practices that prevent injection vulnerabilities through proper parameterization and input validation.