CVE-2022-1216 in Advanced Image Sitemap Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/16/2022
The Advanced Image Sitemap WordPress plugin through 1.2 does not sanitise and escape the PHP_SELF PHP variable before outputting it back in an attribute in an admin page, leading to Reflected Cross-Site Scripting.
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/18/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1216 affects the Advanced Image Sitemap WordPress plugin version 1.2 and earlier, presenting a critical reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability that stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping practices. This issue specifically manifests when the plugin processes the PHP_SELF variable within an admin page context, failing to properly sanitize user-supplied data before incorporating it into HTML attributes. The vulnerability represents a classic XSS flaw where malicious actors can inject arbitrary JavaScript code through carefully crafted input that gets reflected back to users without proper escaping mechanisms.
The technical flaw occurs within the plugin's admin interface where the PHP_SELF server variable is directly used in HTML attribute contexts without appropriate sanitization measures. This variable typically contains the path of the current script, but when manipulated by attackers, it can carry malicious payloads that exploit the lack of proper output escaping. The vulnerability is classified as reflected XSS under CWE-79, which specifically addresses the improper handling of untrusted data in web applications. The attack vector requires a user to be tricked into clicking a malicious link that contains the XSS payload, which is then reflected back through the vulnerable plugin's admin interface.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. An attacker could craft a URL containing malicious JavaScript that, when accessed by an administrator, would execute in the context of the admin session. This poses significant risks to WordPress site security, as administrators typically have elevated privileges and access to sensitive system configurations. The vulnerability affects the plugin's admin page functionality and could potentially be exploited to gain unauthorized access to the WordPress administration panel.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-1216 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the sanitization issue, as the vendor has likely released patches to resolve the XSS vulnerability. Organizations should implement proper input validation and output escaping mechanisms for all user-supplied data, particularly in admin contexts where elevated privileges exist. Security measures including content security policies, proper HTML escaping, and regular security audits of WordPress plugins can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious activity can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments and T1071.001 for application layer protocol usage, making it a significant concern for enterprise security teams. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege for admin access and regular security assessments of all installed WordPress plugins to maintain robust security postures.