CVE-2022-0784 in Title Experiments Free Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/28/2022
The Title Experiments Free WordPress plugin before 9.0.1 does not sanitise and escape the id parameter before using it in a SQL statement via the wpex_titles AJAX action (available to unauthenticated users), leading to an unauthenticated SQL injection
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0784 affects the Title Experiments Free WordPress plugin version 9.0.0 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations. This issue stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization practices within the plugin's codebase, specifically in how it handles user-supplied data through the wpex_titles AJAX action endpoint. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates without requiring any authentication, making it accessible to any attacker with knowledge of the plugin's interface. The affected parameter, id, is directly incorporated into a SQL query without proper sanitization or escaping mechanisms, creating an environment where malicious actors can manipulate database queries through crafted input values.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the wpex_titles AJAX action, which is designed to be accessible to unauthenticated users, thereby removing any barriers that might normally prevent unauthorized access to sensitive system functions. When an attacker submits a malicious value for the id parameter, the plugin fails to properly escape or sanitize this input before incorporating it into a database query. This lack of input validation creates a classic SQL injection vector where attacker-controlled data can be interpreted as part of the SQL command itself. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is directly included in SQL queries without proper sanitization. The attack surface is further expanded by the fact that the AJAX endpoint is publicly accessible, eliminating the need for authentication or authorization, which significantly increases the exploitability of this flaw.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-0784 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation can enable attackers to execute arbitrary database commands with the privileges of the WordPress database user. This could lead to complete database compromise, data exfiltration, modification of content, or even the installation of backdoors through database manipulation. The vulnerability affects WordPress installations where the Title Experiments Free plugin is active, potentially exposing thousands of websites to unauthorized access. Attackers could leverage this flaw to extract sensitive information from the database, including user credentials, configuration settings, and other confidential data that could be used for further attacks. The unauthenticated nature of the vulnerability means that attackers do not need to have valid user credentials or access to the WordPress admin panel, making this attack vector particularly dangerous for website administrators who may not be aware of the vulnerability's presence.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0784 require immediate action from affected website owners, beginning with the mandatory upgrade to version 9.0.1 or later of the Title Experiments Free plugin where the vulnerability has been addressed. Until the upgrade is complete, administrators should consider implementing additional protective measures such as restricting access to the wpex_titles AJAX endpoint through web application firewalls or modifying the plugin's access controls to prevent unauthorized usage. The fix implemented in version 9.0.1 should include proper input sanitization and escaping mechanisms that ensure all user-supplied data is properly validated before being incorporated into database queries. Security professionals should also monitor for any signs of exploitation attempts through log analysis and implement proper security monitoring to detect anomalous database access patterns that could indicate exploitation of this vulnerability. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of input validation in web applications and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for Application Layer Protocol: DNS, as the exploitation could involve DNS-based command and control communications. Organizations should also consider implementing automated patch management systems to ensure timely application of security updates and prevent similar vulnerabilities from being exploited in the future.