CVE-2020-16140 in Greenmart Theme
Summary
by MITRE • 10/28/2020
The search functionality of the Greenmart theme 2.4.2 for WordPress is vulnerable to XSS.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/29/2020
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2020-16140 affects the Greenmart theme version 2.4.2 for WordPress platforms, specifically targeting the search functionality implementation. This represents a critical security flaw that allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the search parameters, potentially compromising user sessions and system integrity. The issue stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the theme's search handling mechanisms, creating an environment where attackers can exploit the vulnerability through crafted search queries.
The technical exploitation of this cross-site scripting vulnerability occurs when user input submitted through the search interface is not properly escaped or validated before being rendered back to users. This flaw falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically representing a stored XSS variant where malicious scripts can be executed in the context of other users' browsers. The vulnerability exists because the theme fails to implement proper sanitization routines for search parameters, allowing attackers to inject malicious payloads that execute when other users view search results or interact with the affected functionality.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable session hijacking, credential theft, and potential privilege escalation within the WordPress environment. Attackers can craft search queries containing malicious JavaScript that executes when other users browse search results, potentially stealing cookies, redirecting users to malicious sites, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of victims. The vulnerability affects all users of the Greenmart theme version 2.4.2 regardless of their role or permissions level, making it particularly dangerous for content management systems where multiple users interact with search functionality.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the Greenmart theme to version 2.4.3 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Organizations should also implement input validation measures at the web application firewall level to detect and block suspicious search parameters containing common XSS attack patterns. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution capabilities and monitor search functionality for anomalous usage patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1213 - Data from Information Repositories, as it enables unauthorized access to user data through compromised search functionality. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify similar issues in other WordPress themes and plugins, as the attack surface for such vulnerabilities remains significant in content management systems.