CVE-2022-4548 in Optimize images ALT Text & Names for SEO using AI Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/23/2023
The Optimize images ALT Text & names for SEO using AI WordPress plugin before 2.0.8 does not have CSRF check in place when updating its settings, which could allow attackers to make a logged-in admin change them via a CSRF attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/03/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-4548 affects the Optimize images ALT Text & names for SEO using AI WordPress plugin, specifically versions prior to 2.0.8. This issue represents a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress administrative functions. The vulnerability stems from the absence of proper Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) protection mechanisms within the plugin's settings update functionality, creating a pathway for malicious actors to exploit authenticated admin sessions.
The technical flaw manifests in the plugin's failure to implement CSRF tokens or similar validation mechanisms when processing administrative setting updates. This omission allows attackers to craft malicious web pages or emails that, when visited by an authenticated administrator, automatically submit unauthorized requests to modify the plugin's configuration. The vulnerability operates at the application level and directly impacts the WordPress admin interface, where legitimate administrative actions are processed without proper session validation.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability poses significant risks to WordPress installations using the affected plugin. An attacker who successfully executes a CSRF attack could potentially alter image optimization settings, modify SEO parameters, or manipulate the plugin's AI-driven image processing behavior. The impact extends beyond simple configuration changes, as these modifications could affect website performance, search engine visibility, and overall site functionality. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it requires no authentication from the attacker beyond the ability to get an admin user to visit a malicious page, making it a prime target for social engineering campaigns.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-352, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Request Forgery weaknesses in web applications. This classification emphasizes the fundamental flaw in the plugin's design where it fails to validate the authenticity of requests originating from the same user session. The attack vector follows standard CSRF patterns where an attacker crafts a request that appears legitimate to the WordPress admin interface, exploiting the trust relationship between the browser and the web application. This vulnerability also maps to ATT&CK technique T1078.004, which covers valid accounts used for unauthorized access, as it leverages existing administrative sessions rather than attempting to compromise credentials directly.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability center on immediate plugin updates to version 2.0.8 or later, where the CSRF protection mechanisms have been implemented. Administrators should also review their WordPress plugin ecosystem for similar vulnerabilities and consider implementing additional security measures such as two-factor authentication, restricted administrative access, and regular security audits. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and monitoring for unusual administrative activities can provide additional defense layers. The recommended approach involves both immediate remediation through patching and long-term security hardening practices to prevent similar issues in other components of the WordPress environment.