CVE-2022-4663 in Members Import Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/03/2023
The Members Import plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Self Cross-Site Scripting via the user_login parameter in an imported CSV file in versions up to, and including, 1.4.2 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that execute if they can successfully trick a site's administrator into uploading a CSV file with the malicious payload.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2022-4663 affects the Members Import plugin for WordPress, a widely used tool for managing user accounts and permissions within WordPress environments. This plugin version 1.4.2 and earlier contains a critical security flaw that enables attackers to execute malicious code through a sophisticated cross-site scripting attack. The vulnerability specifically targets the user_login parameter within imported CSV files, creating a pathway for persistent malicious code injection that can compromise entire WordPress installations when exploited properly.
The technical flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms within the plugin's CSV import functionality. When administrators upload CSV files containing user data, the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize the user_login field, allowing malicious payloads to be embedded within the import process. This vulnerability operates under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, specifically manifesting as a self-XSS attack where the malicious script executes within the context of the administrator's browser session. The attack vector requires social engineering to trick administrators into uploading compromised CSV files, making it particularly dangerous in environments where multiple administrators have access to import functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited to escalate privileges and gain unauthorized access to WordPress administrative functions. Attackers can craft malicious CSV files that, when imported, establish backdoors or steal administrative credentials, potentially leading to complete system compromise. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal technical skill and can be automated through social engineering campaigns, making it particularly attractive to threat actors. Additionally, the self-XSS nature means that the malicious code executes in the context of the victim's browser, allowing for session hijacking and privilege escalation attacks that align with ATT&CK technique T1566 for initial access through spearphishing.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2022-4663 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the input sanitization issues, while also implementing strict file validation policies for CSV imports. Organizations should enforce principle of least privilege for user import functionality, ensuring only trusted administrators have access to import features. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious import activities, and regular security audits should verify that no malicious scripts have been injected into the system. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output escaping practices as outlined in OWASP Top Ten security principles, particularly addressing the prevention of XSS vulnerabilities through proper sanitization of user inputs.