CVE-2020-8596 in Participants Database Plugin
Summary
by MITRE
participants-database.php in the Participants Database plugin 1.9.5.5 and previous versions for WordPress has a time-based SQL injection vulnerability via the ascdesc, list_filter_count, or sortBy parameters. It is possible to exfiltrate data and potentially execute code (if certain conditions are met).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/29/2024
The CVE-2020-8596 vulnerability resides within the Participants Database plugin for WordPress, specifically in the participants-database.php file affecting versions 1.9.5.5 and earlier. This represents a critical time-based sql injection flaw that exploits parameter handling in the plugin's core functionality. The vulnerability manifests through three primary parameters: ascdesc, list_filter_count, and sortBy, which are all susceptible to malicious input manipulation that can bypass normal security controls and execute unauthorized database operations. The time-based nature of this injection means that attackers can infer database contents through response timing variations, making it particularly insidious as it operates silently without immediate detection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitization within the plugin's database query construction process. When users interact with the participant database through various filtering and sorting functions, the plugin directly incorporates user-supplied parameters into SQL queries without adequate escaping or parameterization. This creates an environment where malicious actors can craft payloads that cause the database server to execute unintended operations, potentially leading to complete database compromise. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands, and represents a classic example of how insufficient input validation can lead to severe database exposure.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to WordPress installations using the affected plugin. Attackers can leverage the time-based sql injection to extract sensitive participant data including personal information, contact details, and potentially administrative credentials stored within the database. The potential for code execution exists when specific server configurations or database privileges are present, allowing for more sophisticated attacks such as remote code execution or full system compromise. Organizations using this plugin without proper patching or mitigation measures face immediate risk of data breaches and regulatory compliance violations, particularly in environments handling sensitive personal information.
The impact extends beyond simple data theft to include potential system compromise and business disruption. Security professionals should note that this vulnerability operates within the ATT&CK framework under the T1071.004 technique for application layer protocol usage, specifically targeting web application vulnerabilities. Mitigation strategies must include immediate plugin updates to version 1.9.5.6 or later, which contain proper input validation and sanitization measures. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls, database query monitoring, and regular security audits can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for database accounts and regularly review plugin permissions to minimize potential attack surface. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping third-party WordPress plugins updated and maintaining comprehensive security monitoring across all application components.