CVE-2023-0261 in WP TripAdvisor Review Slider Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/13/2023
The WP TripAdvisor Review Slider WordPress plugin before 10.8 does not properly sanitise and escape a parameter before using it in a SQL statement, leading to a SQL injection exploitable by users with a role as low as subscriber.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/21/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-0261 affects the WP TripAdvisor Review Slider WordPress plugin version 10.7 and earlier, representing a critical SQL injection flaw that undermines the security integrity of WordPress installations. This vulnerability resides within the plugin's handling of user-supplied input parameters, specifically failing to implement proper sanitization and escaping mechanisms before incorporating them into database queries. The flaw manifests when the plugin processes certain parameters through SQL statements, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the plugin's codebase, where user-provided data flows directly into SQL query construction without proper sanitization. This allows attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can be executed within the context of the database connection. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges, as users with the subscriber role can leverage this flaw, making it particularly dangerous for WordPress installations where subscriber accounts might be accessible to untrusted users. The weakness aligns with CWE-89, which categorizes improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands as a primary cause of SQL injection vulnerabilities.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as successful exploitation could enable attackers to extract sensitive information, modify database records, or potentially escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to access user credentials, personal information, or other sensitive data stored in the database. The low privilege requirement significantly amplifies the threat surface, as even seemingly innocuous subscriber accounts could serve as entry points for more extensive attacks. This vulnerability directly relates to ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and T1046 which covers network service scanning, as the exploitation process would likely involve reconnaissance and account-based attacks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-0261 primarily focus on immediate plugin updates to version 10.8 or later, which contain the necessary sanitization patches. System administrators should also implement additional protective measures including database query parameterization, input validation, and regular security audits of WordPress plugins. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can provide additional defense-in-depth, though the most effective solution remains prompt patching. Organizations should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify any other potentially affected plugins or systems, as this vulnerability type often indicates broader security weaknesses in the WordPress installation. The remediation process should include monitoring for unauthorized access attempts and implementing proper access controls to limit subscriber privileges where possible.