CVE-2023-2237 in WP Replicate Post Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/09/2023
The WP Replicate Post plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to SQL Injection via the post_id parameter in versions up to, and including, 4.0.2 due to insufficient escaping on the user supplied parameter and lack of sufficient preparation on the existing SQL query. This makes it possible for contributor-level attackers or higher to append additional SQL queries into already existing queries that can be used to extract sensitive information from the database.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2026
The WP Replicate Post plugin for WordPress represents a critical security vulnerability that exposes systems to sophisticated SQL injection attacks through improper input validation and sanitization practices. This vulnerability affects versions up to and including 4.0.2, creating a persistent threat vector that allows malicious actors with contributor-level privileges or higher to manipulate database queries. The flaw resides in the plugin's handling of the post_id parameter, where insufficient escaping mechanisms fail to properly sanitize user-supplied input before incorporating it into existing SQL statements. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL command strings without proper sanitization. This weakness creates a direct pathway for attackers to execute unauthorized database operations through the existing query structure.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental failure in input validation and query preparation methodologies within the WordPress plugin architecture. When the post_id parameter is processed, the plugin fails to implement proper parameterized queries or adequate input sanitization measures that would normally prevent malicious SQL code from being executed. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious post_id values that, when processed by the vulnerable plugin, append additional SQL commands to the existing query structure. This allows for the extraction of sensitive information from the database, including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft, as it can potentially enable further exploitation and privilege escalation within the compromised WordPress environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is particularly concerning given that it requires only contributor-level access to exploit, making it accessible to users who typically have limited permissions within WordPress systems. This low privilege requirement significantly increases the attack surface and potential for successful exploitation, as contributor accounts are often more readily available or easier to compromise than administrator-level credentials. The vulnerability can result in unauthorized data extraction, potential data corruption, and in severe cases, complete database compromise that could lead to full system takeover. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the WP Replicate Post plugin face substantial risk of data breaches and compliance violations, particularly in environments where WordPress serves as a primary content management platform for sensitive information.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must prioritize immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the SQL injection flaw. System administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring of database activities and query logs to detect potential exploitation attempts. The implementation of web application firewalls and input validation controls can provide additional layers of protection against malicious SQL injection attempts. Security hardening measures should include restricting contributor-level access to plugin management functions and implementing proper database user permissions that limit the potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also conduct thorough vulnerability assessments to identify other potentially vulnerable plugins or components within their WordPress environments. The remediation process must follow established security protocols and include comprehensive testing to ensure that updates do not introduce compatibility issues while effectively addressing the identified SQL injection vulnerability. This vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of proper input validation and parameterized queries in preventing database-related security incidents, aligning with ATT&CK technique T1071.004 for application layer protocol manipulation and T1005 for data from local system.