CVE-2022-45370 in Comments Import & Export Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/07/2023
Improper Neutralization of Formula Elements in a CSV File vulnerability in WebToffee WordPress Comments Import & Export.This issue affects WordPress Comments Import & Export: from n/a through 2.3.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2025
The CVE-2022-45370 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the WebToffee WordPress Comments Import & Export plugin, specifically targeting the improper handling of formula elements within CSV file processing. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-1236 category, which deals with the improper neutralization of formula elements in a CSV file, making it particularly dangerous in web applications where user-supplied data is processed. The issue exists within the plugin's comment import functionality, where CSV files containing malicious formulas can be executed when imported into WordPress, potentially leading to unauthorized code execution or data exfiltration.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize or escape formula elements when parsing CSV files during comment import operations. When users upload CSV files containing formulas such as formulae starting with equals signs or other spreadsheet functions, the plugin processes these elements without adequate validation or neutralization. This creates a vector for formula injection attacks where malicious actors can craft CSV files containing spreadsheet formulas that execute when opened in spreadsheet applications or when processed by the plugin. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the CSV parsing level, where formulas that should be treated as data are instead interpreted as executable commands.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data corruption or display issues. When exploited, it can enable attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the target system, potentially leading to complete compromise of the WordPress installation. The vulnerability affects versions ranging from n/a through 2.3.1, indicating a widespread exposure across multiple plugin releases and suggesting that organizations using these versions are at risk. Attackers could leverage this weakness to inject malicious formulas that, when processed, could redirect users to phishing sites, steal cookies, or even download and execute malware on the target system. The attack surface is further expanded because CSV files are commonly used for data exchange and can be easily disguised as legitimate business documents.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of the WebToffee WordPress Comments Import & Export plugin where the vulnerability has been addressed. System administrators should also consider implementing strict input validation for all CSV file uploads and ensure that formula elements are properly escaped or neutralized during processing. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.001 for command and scripting interpreter, as the exploitation could lead to command execution, and T1566 for social engineering through spearphishing, as attackers might use this vulnerability to craft convincing CSV files that appear legitimate. Additionally, network segmentation and access controls should be implemented to limit the potential impact if the vulnerability is exploited, ensuring that even if an attacker gains access through this vector, they cannot easily move laterally within the network infrastructure.