CVE-2019-25144 in WP HTML Mail Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/07/2023
The WP HTML Mail plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to HTML injection in versions up to, and including, 2.2.10 due to insufficient input sanitization. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary HTML in pages that execute if they can successfully trick a administrator into performing an action such as clicking on a link.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/05/2023
The WP HTML Mail plugin for WordPress presents a significant security vulnerability classified as CVE-2019-25144, affecting versions up to and including 2.2.10. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit the system through HTML injection techniques. The flaw exists in the plugin's handling of user-supplied data, particularly within parameters that are processed without proper validation or escaping measures.
The technical nature of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) conditions where improper sanitization of input allows attackers to inject malicious HTML content. The vulnerability operates through a server-side request forgery mechanism where unauthenticated attackers can craft malicious payloads that, when processed by the plugin, get executed in the context of administrator sessions. This represents a critical chain of trust violation since the attack requires only the ability to convince an administrator to interact with a malicious link rather than direct system compromise.
The operational impact of CVE-2019-25144 extends beyond simple HTML injection, as it enables attackers to perform various malicious activities including but not limited to session hijacking, credential theft, and privilege escalation. When administrators click on crafted links, the injected HTML content can execute within their browser context, potentially allowing attackers to access sensitive administrative functions, modify content, or even install malware. The vulnerability particularly affects WordPress environments where administrators regularly interact with external links or where the plugin is used for sending emails that might be clicked by users with elevated privileges.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of the ATT&CK framework, specifically under the T1059.007 technique for Command and Scripting Interpreter: JavaScript, as the HTML injection can lead to JavaScript execution. The attack vector typically involves social engineering campaigns where attackers craft phishing emails or manipulate web content to entice administrators into clicking malicious links. The exploitation chain often begins with the attacker identifying a WordPress installation using the vulnerable plugin, crafting a malicious payload, and then deploying it through deceptive means to target specific administrators.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2019-25144 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the input sanitization flaws, as this represents the most effective defense mechanism. Organizations should also implement additional security layers including web application firewalls, content security policies, and regular security audits of installed plugins. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns in email content or link redirection that might indicate exploitation attempts. Administrators should be trained to recognize phishing attempts and verify the legitimacy of links before interaction, while also implementing principle of least privilege access controls to limit potential damage from successful exploitation attempts.