CVE-2019-16332 in api-bearer-auth Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
In the api-bearer-auth plugin before 20190907 for WordPress, the server parameter is not correctly filtered in the swagger-config.yaml.php file, and it is possible to inject JavaScript code, aka XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 12/25/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2019-16332 affects the api-bearer-auth plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions prior to the 20190907 release. This security flaw exists within the swagger-config.yaml.php file where the server parameter undergoes inadequate input sanitization. The improper filtering creates an avenue for cross-site scripting attacks, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the application's response. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly validate and sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into the generated swagger configuration file. This weakness enables attackers to craft malicious payloads that can execute in the context of a victim's browser when they access the affected WordPress site. The issue represents a classic input validation flaw that permits unauthorized code execution within the web application's security boundaries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of the server parameter within the swagger-config.yaml.php file. When an attacker submits malicious input containing JavaScript code through this parameter, the application fails to sanitize the input properly before rendering it in the configuration file. This allows the injected JavaScript to be executed in the browser of any user who accesses the vulnerable endpoint. The vulnerability specifically falls under CWE-79 which describes Cross-Site Scripting flaws where improper validation of input allows malicious scripts to be executed. The impact is particularly concerning as it affects the WordPress administration interface and potentially exposes sensitive user data or allows for further exploitation of the compromised system. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to perform session hijacking, steal cookies, or redirect users to malicious sites.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-16332 extends beyond simple script injection, as it can enable more sophisticated attacks within the WordPress environment. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can potentially access administrative functions, manipulate user sessions, or exfiltrate sensitive information from the WordPress installation. The vulnerability affects the api-bearer-auth plugin's ability to provide secure API authentication, undermining the security posture of the entire WordPress site. This weakness can be particularly dangerous when combined with other vulnerabilities or when the affected WordPress installation handles sensitive data. The attack vector is relatively straightforward, requiring only the ability to submit malicious input to the server parameter, making it accessible to attackers with basic web application exploitation knowledge. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1059.007 for script injection techniques and T1566 for credential access through social engineering, as the XSS can be used to harvest user credentials.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-16332 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 20190907 or later, which includes proper input sanitization for the server parameter. System administrators should implement comprehensive input validation measures that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly for parameters used in configuration files. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against XSS attacks by restricting the sources from which scripts can be executed. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify similar input validation weaknesses. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious input attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation in web applications and serves as a reminder of the necessity for regular security updates and thorough testing of third-party components. Security monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in API requests that might indicate exploitation attempts. Additionally, user education regarding the risks of visiting untrusted websites and the importance of keeping software updated remains crucial in mitigating the overall risk landscape.