CVE-2021-24630 in Schreikasten Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/08/2021
The Schreikasten WordPress plugin through 0.14.18 does not sanitise or escape the id GET parameter before using it in SQL statements in the comments dashboard from various actions, leading to authenticated SQL Injections which can be exploited by users as low as author
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/11/2021
The CVE-2021-24630 vulnerability affects the Schreikasten WordPress plugin version 0.14.18 and earlier, presenting a critical security flaw that enables authenticated SQL injection attacks. This vulnerability specifically targets the comments dashboard functionality where the plugin fails to properly sanitise or escape the id GET parameter before incorporating it into SQL queries. The flaw exists within the plugin's handling of user input during administrative operations, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input parameters. The vulnerability's severity is compounded by the fact that it can be exploited by users with relatively low privileges, specifically authors, who possess the ability to access the comments dashboard and execute malicious payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper input validation and sanitisation practices within the plugin's codebase. When users access the comments dashboard and interact with various actions that utilize the id parameter, the plugin directly incorporates this user-supplied input into SQL statements without adequate sanitisation. This violates fundamental security principles outlined in CWE-89, which addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities resulting from inadequate input sanitisation. The vulnerability demonstrates a clear failure in implementing proper parameterised queries or input validation mechanisms that would prevent malicious SQL code from being executed within the database context. Attackers can leverage this weakness to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, or deletion, potentially compromising the entire WordPress installation's integrity.
The operational impact of CVE-2021-24630 extends beyond simple data theft, as authenticated SQL injection vulnerabilities provide attackers with significant control over the affected system. Authors with compromised accounts can exploit this vulnerability to escalate their privileges, extract sensitive information from the database, or manipulate content within the WordPress environment. The attack surface is particularly concerning because it requires minimal privileges to exploit, making it an attractive target for attackers seeking to gain deeper access to WordPress installations. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which covers valid accounts as a means of gaining access to systems, and T1046 which involves network service scanning that can be performed through database manipulation. The potential for data exfiltration and system compromise makes this vulnerability particularly dangerous in environments where WordPress plugins are widely used.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2021-24630 must focus on immediate remediation and long-term security hardening measures. The primary solution involves updating the Schreikasten plugin to version 0.14.19 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the SQL injection vulnerability. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and sanitisation practices, ensuring that all user-supplied parameters are properly escaped before being incorporated into database queries. Additionally, implementing network monitoring and intrusion detection systems can help identify suspicious database query patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. Security professionals should consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls, limiting the capabilities of user accounts within WordPress installations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of regular security audits and vulnerability assessments of third-party plugins, as well as maintaining up-to-date security practices that align with industry standards such as those recommended by the OWASP Project. Organizations should also establish robust patch management processes to ensure timely updates of all WordPress components and plugins to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited.