CVE-2022-3441 in Rock Convert Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 10/31/2022
The Rock Convert WordPress plugin before 2.11.0 does not sanitise and escape some of its settings, which could allow high privilege users such as admin to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks even when the unfiltered_html capability is disallowed (for example in multisite setup)
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/07/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-3441 affects the Rock Convert WordPress plugin version 2.10.9 and earlier, representing a critical stored cross-site scripting flaw that undermines the security posture of WordPress installations. This vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of user settings, where insufficient sanitization and escaping of input data creates persistent XSS attack vectors. The flaw is particularly concerning because it affects high-privilege users including administrators, who can leverage this vulnerability even in environments where the unfiltered_html capability has been properly restricted, such as in multisite configurations where security hardening is typically more stringent.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user input within its administrative settings interface. When administrators configure plugin settings, the data is stored in the WordPress database without adequate sanitization processes that would normally prevent malicious script execution. This stored data is then subsequently rendered in the browser without proper output escaping, creating a classic stored XSS scenario where malicious scripts persistently execute whenever affected pages are loaded. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which categorizes cross-site scripting flaws, specifically targeting the stored variant where malicious input is permanently saved and executed. The issue is particularly dangerous because it bypasses WordPress's built-in security mechanisms that typically protect against XSS attacks by restricting unfiltered_html capabilities in multisite environments.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers with administrative privileges to perform a wide range of malicious activities including session hijacking, data exfiltration, and privilege escalation within the WordPress environment. Attackers can craft malicious scripts that execute in the context of other administrators or users, potentially leading to complete system compromise. In multisite setups, where the vulnerability becomes particularly relevant, the impact is amplified as administrators may have access to multiple sites within the network, allowing for lateral movement and broader exploitation. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1548.002 which covers abuse of group policies and administrative privileges, as the compromised administrative account can be used to maintain persistent access and expand the attack surface. The stored nature of the vulnerability means that once exploited, the malicious payloads will continue to execute until the affected plugin is updated or the malicious settings are manually removed.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-3441 require immediate action including updating the Rock Convert plugin to version 2.11.0 or later, where the sanitization and escaping mechanisms have been properly implemented. System administrators should also conduct thorough security audits of all installed plugins to identify similar vulnerabilities that may exist in other third-party components. Additional defensive measures include implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, regularly monitoring for suspicious administrative activities, and ensuring that administrative accounts are protected with strong authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output escaping practices in web applications, particularly in CMS environments where administrative interfaces handle user-provided data. Organizations should also consider implementing automated vulnerability scanning tools that can detect similar sanitization issues across their entire WordPress ecosystem, as this vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor implementation flaws can create significant security risks in privileged administrative contexts.