CVE-2024-12468 in WP Datepicker Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/24/2024
The WP Datepicker plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Reflected Cross-Site Scripting via the 'wpdp_get_selected_datepicker' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 2.1.4 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that execute if they can successfully trick a user into performing an action such as clicking on a link.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2025
The WP Datepicker plugin for WordPress represents a common category of vulnerabilities that exploits the fundamental trust users place in web applications. This particular vulnerability affects versions up to and including 2.1.4, indicating a widespread exposure across numerous installations that have not received timely updates. The vulnerability manifests through the 'wpdp_get_selected_datepicker' parameter, which serves as an entry point for malicious actors to inject harmful code into the application's response. This parameter is processed without adequate sanitization measures, creating a pathway for attackers to bypass the application's security controls and execute their payloads within the context of the victim's browser session.
The technical flaw resides in the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user input and escape output before rendering it in web pages. This represents a classic reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability where malicious scripts are reflected off the web server and executed in the victim's browser. The vulnerability is classified as CWE-79, which specifically addresses Cross-Site Scripting flaws in web applications. The absence of proper input validation and output escaping creates an environment where attacker-controlled data can be seamlessly integrated into the application's response, enabling the execution of arbitrary JavaScript code. This weakness is particularly dangerous because it does not require authentication, allowing unauthenticated attackers to exploit the vulnerability.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it enables attackers to perform a range of malicious activities that can compromise user sessions and data integrity. An attacker can craft malicious links that, when clicked by an unsuspecting user, will execute scripts that can steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or even modify the content of the web page. The reflected nature of the vulnerability means that the attack payload is delivered through a URL that contains the malicious script, making it particularly effective for phishing campaigns and social engineering attacks. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers spearphishing attacks using malicious links that leverage web application vulnerabilities.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must address both immediate remediation and long-term security improvements. The primary recommendation involves updating to the latest version of the WP Datepicker plugin where the vulnerability has been patched. This update should be prioritized across all affected installations to prevent exploitation. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output escaping mechanisms should become standard practice for all web applications. The security architecture should incorporate Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution and prevent unauthorized code injection. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious requests targeting known vulnerable parameters. Regular security assessments and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses in other plugins and themes, as this vulnerability demonstrates how seemingly minor input handling flaws can create significant security risks. The incident highlights the importance of maintaining up-to-date software and implementing robust security controls throughout the application development lifecycle.