CVE-2023-39639 in LeoBlog
Summary
by MITRE • 09/15/2023
LeoTheme leoblog up to v3.1.2 was discovered to contain a SQL injection vulnerability via the component LeoBlogBlog::getListBlogs.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/25/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2023-39639 affects LeoTheme leoblog plugin versions up to v3.1.2 and represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the LeoBlogBlog::getListBlogs component. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input validation and improper sanitization of user-supplied data that flows into database queries. The affected plugin is commonly used in wordpress environments to manage blog content and functionality, making it a potential target for attackers seeking to compromise wordpress installations. The SQL injection vulnerability exists because the plugin fails to properly escape or parameterize user input before incorporating it into SQL statements, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands that can be executed by the database server.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker manipulates input parameters passed to the getListBlogs method, potentially enabling them to extract sensitive data from the database, modify or delete records, or even escalate privileges within the affected system. The flaw falls under CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where untrusted data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper sanitization. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited remotely without requiring authentication, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to database contents including user credentials, configuration details, and other sensitive information. The attack vector typically involves manipulating query parameters through web requests that are then processed by the vulnerable plugin component.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and unauthorized access to wordpress installations. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to execute arbitrary database commands, potentially gaining access to user accounts, modifying content, or even establishing persistent backdoors within the affected systems. The vulnerability affects not only the blog content but also the underlying wordpress database structure, making it a significant concern for website administrators. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability maps to T1190 - Exploit Public-Facing Application which describes techniques used to exploit applications accessible from the internet. The risk is particularly high for wordpress sites that rely on the leoblog plugin, as these installations become vulnerable to automated scanning and exploitation by threat actors seeking to compromise web applications.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the leoblog plugin to version 3.1.3 or later where the SQL injection flaw has been addressed. System administrators should also implement proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent similar vulnerabilities in custom code. Database access controls should be reviewed to ensure that application accounts have minimal necessary privileges, following the principle of least privilege. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can help detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this specific vulnerability. Regular security audits and vulnerability assessments should be conducted to identify and remediate similar issues in other components of the wordpress ecosystem. Organizations should also consider implementing database query logging and monitoring to detect anomalous database access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of keeping third-party plugins updated and maintaining comprehensive security practices for wordpress installations.