CVE-2021-24558 in Project Status Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/23/2021
The pspin_duplicate_post_save_as_new_post function of the Project Status WordPress plugin through 1.6 does not sanitise, validate or escape the post GET parameter passed to it before outputting it in an error message when the related post does not exist, leading to a reflected XSS issue
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/26/2021
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2021-24558 affects the Project Status WordPress plugin version 1.6 and earlier, presenting a significant security risk through a reflected cross-site scripting flaw. This issue occurs within the pspin_duplicate_post_save_as_new_post function which processes user input without proper sanitization or validation mechanisms. The vulnerability specifically manifests when a user attempts to duplicate a post that does not exist, causing the system to output the post GET parameter directly in an error message without adequate escaping or filtering.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to implement proper input validation and output escaping practices. When the system encounters a scenario where a requested post cannot be found, it directly incorporates the user-supplied post parameter into an error message that gets rendered in the browser. This creates an ideal environment for reflected cross-site scripting attacks, where malicious actors can craft specially formatted URLs containing malicious JavaScript code within the post parameter. When victims click on these crafted links, the malicious script executes in their browser context, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or other malicious activities.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in software applications. The issue represents a classic reflected XSS vulnerability where the malicious payload is reflected off the web server and executed in the victim's browser. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this under T1566, specifically targeting the initial access phase through malicious links or payloads. The vulnerability's impact is particularly concerning in WordPress environments where administrators and users may inadvertently click on malicious links, especially in contexts where the plugin is used for project management or content duplication workflows.
The operational implications of this vulnerability extend beyond simple script execution, potentially allowing attackers to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized access to sensitive project data. Since WordPress plugins often handle administrative functions and user data, the reflected XSS could enable attackers to manipulate project status information, access restricted content, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The vulnerability affects any WordPress installation using the Project Status plugin version 1.6 or earlier, making it a widespread concern for organizations relying on this particular plugin for their project management workflows.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 1.7 or later, which contain the necessary security patches to address the input validation and output escaping deficiencies. Administrators should also implement proper input sanitization measures at the web application level, including the use of Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution capabilities. Additionally, regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify similar vulnerabilities, with particular attention to functions that handle user input and generate dynamic output. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of proper input validation and output escaping practices in web applications, as outlined in OWASP's top ten security risks and the broader principles of secure coding standards.