CVE-2022-0420 in RegistrationMagic Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/07/2022
The RegistrationMagic WordPress plugin before 5.0.2.2 does not sanitise and escape the rm_form_id parameter before using it in a SQL statement in the Automation admin dashboard, allowing high privilege users to perform SQL injection attacks
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/09/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0420 affects the RegistrationMagic WordPress plugin version 5.0.2.2 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk through improper input validation in the plugin's automation admin dashboard functionality. This flaw exists within the handling of the rm_form_id parameter, which is processed without adequate sanitisation or escaping mechanisms before being incorporated into SQL database queries. The vulnerability specifically targets high privilege users who have access to the plugin's administrative interface, making it particularly dangerous as it leverages existing administrative privileges to escalate the attack vector.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a classic SQL injection flaw that aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in an SQL command. The plugin fails to properly validate or escape user-supplied input from the rm_form_id parameter, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that can be executed within the database context. This occurs because the plugin directly incorporates user input into SQL queries without appropriate parameterization or input filtering, creating an environment where attackers can manipulate database operations through carefully crafted input values.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it allows attackers with administrative privileges to execute arbitrary database commands that could result in complete database compromise. High privilege users who can access the automation dashboard are particularly at risk since they already possess the necessary permissions to manipulate plugin functionality. Attackers could potentially extract sensitive user data, modify database records, create new administrative accounts, or even escalate their privileges further within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal additional privileges beyond existing administrative access, making it a particularly attractive target for attackers seeking to maximize their impact.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0420 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 5.0.2.2 or later, where the sanitization and escaping mechanisms have been implemented to prevent SQL injection attacks. Organizations should also implement additional security measures such as input validation at multiple layers, database query parameterization, and regular security audits of WordPress plugins. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect unusual database query patterns that might indicate SQL injection attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input handling practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through database manipulation. Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring to provide additional defense-in-depth layers against similar vulnerabilities.