CVE-2023-51469 in Checkout Mestres WP Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/31/2023
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Mestres do WP Checkout Mestres WP.This issue affects Checkout Mestres WP: from n/a through 7.1.9.6.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2024
The CVE-2023-51469 vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw within the Mestres do WP Checkout Mestres WP plugin, a widely used payment processing solution for wordpress platforms. This vulnerability falls under the well-established CWE-89 category, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements in sql commands. The flaw exists in the plugin's handling of user-supplied input within sql query constructions, creating a pathway for malicious actors to manipulate database operations through crafted input parameters. The vulnerability impacts versions ranging from unspecified initial releases through 7.1.9.6, indicating a prolonged exposure window where users remained susceptible to exploitation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the plugin's database interaction mechanisms. When users provide input through checkout forms or administrative interfaces, the plugin fails to properly escape or parameterize these values before incorporating them into sql queries. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious sql payloads that bypass authentication, extract sensitive data, modify database records, or even execute arbitrary commands on the underlying database server. The vulnerability's impact extends beyond simple data theft as it can enable complete database compromise and potential system takeover. This type of attack aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 which covers exploitation of remote services, and T1071.005 which covers application layer protocol usage for command and control.
The operational impact of this vulnerability presents significant risks to e-commerce platforms and businesses relying on the affected plugin. Payment data, customer information, and sensitive business records stored in the database become accessible to attackers who successfully exploit this flaw. The vulnerability's persistence across multiple versions suggests that many installations may remain unpatched, creating a substantial attack surface. Organizations using this plugin face potential regulatory compliance violations, financial losses, reputation damage, and legal consequences from data breaches. The vulnerability's exploitation can occur through various attack vectors including web application attacks, automated scanning tools, or manual penetration testing approaches. System administrators must consider that this vulnerability could provide attackers with persistent access to database resources, enabling long-term data exfiltration or system manipulation.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-51469 require immediate action from affected organizations. The primary remediation involves updating to the latest version of the Mestres do WP Checkout Mestres WP plugin where the sql injection vulnerability has been patched. Organizations should also implement additional protective measures including input validation, parameterized queries, and database access controls. Network segmentation and intrusion detection systems can help identify exploitation attempts, while regular security audits and penetration testing should verify the effectiveness of implemented controls. Security teams should monitor for indicators of compromise related to database access patterns and unauthorized data extraction activities. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing proper input validation practices as recommended in industry standards such as the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to provide additional layers of protection against similar sql injection vulnerabilities.