CVE-2022-1687 in Logo Slider Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/08/2022
The Logo Slider WordPress plugin through 1.4.8 does not sanitise and escape the lsp_slider_id parameter before using it in a SQL statement via the Manage Slider Images admin page, leading to an SQL Injection
Be aware that VulDB is the high quality source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/11/2022
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-1687 affects the Logo Slider WordPress plugin version 1.4.8 and earlier, representing a critical security flaw that exposes the plugin to unauthorized SQL injection attacks. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's administrative interface, specifically in the Manage Slider Images page where the lsp_slider_id parameter is processed without proper security measures. The vulnerability creates a direct pathway for attackers to manipulate database queries through maliciously crafted input, potentially compromising the entire WordPress installation and underlying database infrastructure.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the improper handling of user-supplied input within the plugin's backend functionality. When administrators access the Manage Slider Images page, the lsp_slider_id parameter is directly incorporated into SQL queries without sanitization or escaping mechanisms. This primitive approach to input handling allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can be executed within the database context, bypassing normal authentication and authorization controls. The vulnerability manifests as a classic SQL injection flaw that aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The attack vector is particularly dangerous because it targets the administrative interface, enabling potential attackers to escalate privileges and gain deeper access to the WordPress system.
The operational impact of CVE-2022-1687 extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers could potentially extract all database contents including user credentials, plugin configurations, and website content, while also having the capability to modify or delete critical data. The vulnerability's accessibility through the WordPress admin interface means that even low-privilege attackers who can access the plugin's management pages could exploit this weakness. This scenario presents a significant risk to WordPress installations where multiple administrators or users with limited capabilities might have access to the plugin's interface, creating an attack surface that could be leveraged for persistent threats. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers valid accounts and credential access, as attackers could potentially escalate privileges and maintain access to compromised systems.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-1687 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the SQL injection vulnerability, as the vendor has likely released patches to resolve the sanitization issues. Organizations should implement additional security measures including input validation at multiple layers, proper parameterized queries, and regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper input sanitization and the critical need for maintaining up-to-date WordPress plugins and core installations. Security teams should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect similar issues in custom plugins and themes, as well as establishing regular security assessments to identify and remediate potential SQL injection vulnerabilities before they can be exploited by malicious actors.