CVE-2022-0769 in Users Ultra Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/25/2022
The Users Ultra WordPress plugin through 3.1.0 fails to properly sanitize and escape the data_target parameter before it is being interpolated in an SQL statement and then executed via the rating_vote AJAX action (available to both unauthenticated and authenticated users), leading to an SQL Injection.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/29/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0769 affects the Users Ultra WordPress plugin version 3.1.0 and earlier, representing a critical SQL injection flaw that undermines the security integrity of WordPress installations. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's rating_vote AJAX handler, which processes user interactions without proper data sanitization measures. The flaw specifically targets the data_target parameter that flows directly into SQL execution contexts, creating a direct pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input payloads.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating the data_target parameter through the rating_vote AJAX endpoint. This endpoint is accessible to both authenticated and unauthenticated users, significantly expanding the attack surface and eliminating the need for valid user credentials to exploit the flaw. The vulnerability manifests when user-supplied data is interpolated directly into SQL statements without proper escaping or parameterization, creating a classic SQL injection vector that can be exploited to extract sensitive data, modify database contents, or potentially escalate privileges within the affected WordPress environment. The flaw aligns with CWE-89 which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a fundamental weakness in software security design.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-0769 extends beyond simple data theft, as it can enable comprehensive database compromise and potential system takeover. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to access user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the WordPress database. The unauthenticated nature of the exploit means that even websites with restricted access or those relying on user authentication for security can be compromised through this vector. The vulnerability also affects the integrity of the application's data layer, potentially allowing for data modification or deletion operations that could disrupt service availability. This type of vulnerability directly maps to attack techniques described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the SQL Injection tactic, where adversaries exploit improper input validation to execute malicious database commands.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0769 require immediate action including updating to the patched version of the Users Ultra plugin or implementing temporary workarounds such as disabling the affected AJAX endpoint. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the rating_vote endpoint. Database administrators should monitor for unusual query patterns and implement proper input validation at multiple layers of the application architecture. The remediation process should include thorough security auditing of all WordPress plugins and themes to identify similar sanitization issues, as this vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper parameterization and input validation in preventing SQL injection attacks. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be implemented to proactively identify and address similar flaws in the application's attack surface, ensuring compliance with security standards such as those recommended by NIST and ISO 27001 for secure software development practices.