CVE-2023-50837 in Login Lockdown Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/29/2023
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in WebFactory Ltd Login Lockdown – Protect Login Form.This issue affects Login Lockdown – Protect Login Form: from n/a through 2.06.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/21/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-50837 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the Login Lockdown plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting versions ranging from the initial release through 2.06. This weakness resides in the plugin's handling of user input within SQL command construction processes, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database queries through specially crafted inputs. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization and validation of parameters passed to database operations, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL code that can be executed by the underlying database system.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL queries without proper escaping or parameterization mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this by manipulating input fields such as username, password, or other form elements that are subsequently processed by the plugin's database interaction functions. This improper neutralization of special SQL elements enables attackers to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or potentially gain unauthorized access to the entire WordPress installation. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws where untrusted data is incorporated into SQL commands without proper sanitization.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple authentication bypass, as successful exploitation can lead to complete compromise of the affected WordPress site. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the database. The vulnerability affects the plugin's login protection functionality, creating a paradoxical situation where the security mechanism designed to protect against unauthorized access becomes a vector for exploitation. This weakness can also enable attackers to escalate privileges, modify content, or establish persistent backdoors within the compromised system, making it particularly dangerous for websites handling sensitive user information or business-critical data.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-50837 should prioritize immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the SQL injection vulnerability. System administrators should ensure that all instances of the Login Lockdown plugin are updated to the latest stable release that contains proper input validation and sanitization measures. Additionally, implementing proper parameterized queries and input validation techniques can prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding practices as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly focusing on preventing injection flaws that can lead to complete system compromise. Organizations should also implement network monitoring and intrusion detection systems to identify potential exploitation attempts and maintain regular security audits to detect and remediate similar vulnerabilities across their web applications.