CVE-2022-0836 in SEMA API Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/09/2022
The SEMA API WordPress plugin through 3.64 does not properly sanitise and escape some parameters before using them in SQL statements via an AJAX action, leading to SQL Injections exploitable by unauthenticated users
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/12/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-0836 affects the SEMA API WordPress plugin version 3.64 and earlier, presenting a critical security risk through improper input validation and sanitization practices. This flaw exists within the plugin's handling of parameters passed through AJAX actions, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute unauthorized database operations. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's API functionality that processes user inputs without adequate sanitization measures, allowing attackers to manipulate SQL queries through crafted parameter values.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly escape and sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into SQL statements. When an AJAX request is made to the SEMA API endpoint, certain parameters are directly used in database queries without appropriate validation or escaping mechanisms. This pattern of insecure data handling directly violates fundamental security principles and creates an environment where malicious inputs can alter the intended execution flow of SQL commands. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the SQL injection flaw, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive data from the WordPress database, modify existing records, or even delete critical information. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access user credentials, personal information, or other confidential data stored within the application's database. The unauthenticated nature of the exploit means that no prior access or credentials are required to attempt the attack, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible WordPress installations. This vulnerability directly maps to ATT&CK technique T1071.004, which covers application layer protocol manipulation, and T1046, covering network service scanning, as attackers would need to identify the vulnerable AJAX endpoint to exploit this flaw.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-0836 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to version 3.65 or later, where the sanitization issues have been addressed through proper input validation and parameter escaping. Administrators should also implement additional protective measures including monitoring for unusual database activity, restricting access to AJAX endpoints through firewall rules, and employing web application firewalls that can detect and block SQL injection attempts. The fix implemented by the plugin developers should involve proper use of prepared statements or parameterized queries, ensuring that user inputs are treated as data rather than executable code within SQL contexts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their WordPress installations to identify any other potentially vulnerable plugins or themes that might exhibit similar sanitization issues.