CVE-2022-4653 in Greenshift Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/16/2023
The Greenshift WordPress plugin before 4.8.9 does not validate and escape one of its shortcode attributes, which could allow users with a role as low as contributor to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting attack.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/10/2025
The Greenshift WordPress plugin vulnerability CVE-2022-4653 represents a critical security flaw in versions prior to 4.8.9 that enables stored cross-site scripting attacks through improper input validation. This vulnerability specifically affects the plugin's shortcode implementation where one attribute fails to undergo proper validation and escaping mechanisms. The flaw exists within the plugin's core functionality that processes user-generated content through shortcode attributes, creating an attack vector that can be exploited by malicious actors with minimal privileges.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to sanitize user input before storing and rendering it within web pages. When a contributor or lower-privileged user submits content containing malicious script within the affected shortcode attribute, the plugin stores this unvalidated input without proper escaping. This stored script then executes in the context of other users who view pages containing the malicious shortcode, creating a persistent cross-site scripting condition. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which categorizes improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically addressing stored XSS flaws where malicious scripts are stored and executed later.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it provides attackers with the ability to compromise user sessions, steal sensitive information, and potentially escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. Since contributors can exploit this vulnerability, it represents a significant risk to WordPress sites where multiple users with varying permission levels exist. The stored nature of the XSS means that once exploited, the malicious payload persists until manually removed, allowing attackers to maintain access and cause ongoing damage. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which covers credential access through phishing and social engineering, as the malicious scripts could be used to capture user credentials or session tokens.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately update to Greenshift plugin version 4.8.9 or later where the validation and escaping mechanisms have been properly implemented. The mitigation strategy involves not only patching the specific vulnerability but also implementing additional security measures such as input validation at multiple levels, regular security audits of plugins, and monitoring for suspicious user activity. Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and content security policies to provide additional layers of protection against similar vulnerabilities. The incident highlights the importance of proper input sanitization and the critical need for security testing during plugin development cycles to prevent such flaws from reaching production environments.