CVE-2021-24463 in Responsive Slider and Carousel Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/02/2021
The get_sliders() function in the Image Slider by Ays- Responsive Slider and Carousel WordPress plugin before 2.5.0 did not use whitelist or validate the orderby parameter before using it in SQL statements passed to the get_results() DB calls, leading to SQL injection issues in the admin dashboard
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/06/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-24463 affects the Image Slider by Ays- Responsive Slider and Carousel WordPress plugin, specifically targeting versions prior to 2.5.0. This security flaw resides within the get_sliders() function which handles slider data retrieval operations within the WordPress admin dashboard environment. The issue manifests when the plugin processes user-provided orderby parameters without proper validation or sanitization, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input values. The vulnerability represents a classic SQL injection weakness that can be exploited to execute arbitrary database commands and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of the orderby parameter in SQL queries. When administrators access the slider management interface, the get_sliders() function accepts user input directly without implementing proper input validation or whitelisting mechanisms. This parameter is then incorporated into database queries executed via the get_results() method, which lacks adequate sanitization. The absence of parameter validation allows attackers to inject malicious SQL fragments that can alter the intended query behavior, potentially leading to data extraction, modification, or deletion operations. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper validation.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-24463 extends beyond simple data compromise, as it enables attackers to gain elevated privileges within the WordPress administration interface. Successful exploitation can result in unauthorized modification of slider configurations, complete database access, and potential lateral movement within the compromised WordPress installation. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to inject malicious code, establish persistence mechanisms, or extract sensitive user information stored in the database. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates within the admin dashboard context, providing attackers with access to administrative functions that control plugin behavior and user management. This aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which covers valid accounts and T1041 which addresses data compression and T1071.004 which covers application layer protocols.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 2.5.0 or later, where proper input validation and sanitization mechanisms have been implemented. Organizations should also implement network-based intrusion detection systems to monitor for suspicious SQL injection patterns and ensure that WordPress core, themes, and plugins are regularly updated. Additional defensive measures include implementing proper input validation at multiple layers, using prepared statements for all database queries, and restricting administrative access through role-based permissions. Security monitoring should include log analysis for unusual database query patterns and unauthorized administrative activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation and proper parameter handling in web applications, particularly in administrative interfaces where elevated privileges can lead to complete system compromise. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar issues in other plugins and custom code implementations.