CVE-2022-1567 in WP-JS Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/11/2022
The WP-JS plugin for WordPress contains a script called wp-js.php with the function wp_js_admin, that accepts unvalidated user input and echoes it back to the user. This can be used for reflected Cross-Site Scripting in versions up to, and including, 2.0.6.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/08/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1567 resides within the WP-JS plugin for WordPress, representing a classic reflected cross-site scripting flaw that affects versions up to and including 2.0.6. This issue stems from the plugin's wp-js.php script which contains a function named wp_js_admin that fails to properly validate or sanitize user input before echoing it back to the user. The vulnerability occurs when malicious actors craft specially crafted URLs or form submissions that include malicious script code, which is then reflected back to the victim's browser through the vulnerable function, creating a persistent security risk.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates poor input validation practices that align with CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in software applications. The wp_js_admin function in the wp-js.php script accepts user-supplied parameters without adequate sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that executes in the context of the victim's browser session. This reflected XSS vulnerability operates by tricking users into clicking malicious links that contain script payloads, which are then executed when the user's browser processes the reflected content. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it leverages legitimate plugin functionality to deliver malicious payloads, making it harder to detect and mitigate.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as reflected XSS attacks can lead to session hijacking, credential theft, and further exploitation of the affected WordPress installation. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to steal administrator credentials, modify website content, redirect users to malicious sites, or perform actions on behalf of authenticated users. The reflected nature of the vulnerability means that the attack payload is not stored on the server but is instead delivered through user interaction, making it particularly dangerous in environments where administrators might be tricked into clicking malicious links. This vulnerability affects the entire WordPress ecosystem where the WP-JS plugin is installed, potentially compromising multiple sites if administrators are not vigilant about plugin security updates.
Organizations should prioritize immediate remediation by updating to the latest version of the WP-JS plugin where this vulnerability has been addressed, or by implementing temporary mitigations such as input validation rules and web application firewalls. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and output sanitization practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles. Security teams should also implement monitoring for suspicious user behavior and ensure that all WordPress plugins are regularly updated to prevent exploitation of known vulnerabilities. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers and other defensive measures can help mitigate the impact of such vulnerabilities even when they are not immediately patched, as recommended by the ATT&CK framework's approach to defending against web-based attacks and maintaining secure application environments.