CVE-2024-22159 in WOLF Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/31/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in realmag777 WOLF – WordPress Posts Bulk Editor and Manager Professional allows Reflected XSS.This issue affects WOLF – WordPress Posts Bulk Editor and Manager Professional: from n/a through 1.0.8.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2024
This cross-site scripting vulnerability exists within the realmag777 WOLF WordPress plugin, specifically in the Posts Bulk Editor and Manager Professional component. The flaw represents a classic reflected xss attack vector where malicious input is not properly sanitized before being rendered back to users. The vulnerability occurs during web page generation when user-supplied data is directly incorporated into html output without adequate neutralization measures. This allows attackers to inject malicious javascript code that executes in the context of other users' browsers when they view affected pages. The issue affects all versions of the plugin from the initial release through version 1.0.8, indicating a persistent flaw that was not addressed in the patch cycle.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and output encoding practices within the plugin's codebase. When users interact with the bulk editor functionality, the application fails to properly escape or sanitize parameters that are reflected back to the user interface. This creates an environment where an attacker can craft malicious payloads that, when executed, can steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions, or redirect users to malicious sites. The reflected nature of this vulnerability means that the malicious script is embedded in a request and reflected back by the server, making it particularly dangerous for targeted attacks. This type of flaw is categorized under CWE-79 as improper neutralization of input during web page generation, which is a fundamental web application security weakness.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can lead to complete session hijacking and privilege escalation within the WordPress environment. An attacker could potentially steal administrator credentials, modify content, or establish persistent backdoors through the compromised user sessions. The vulnerability affects any user who interacts with the plugin's interface, making it particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where administrators might be tricked into clicking malicious links. The reflected nature means that the attack requires user interaction through phishing or social engineering tactics, but once executed, the consequences can be severe. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments or links, and T1071.001 for application layer protocol usage.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the affected plugin to version 1.0.9 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed. In the interim, administrators should implement input validation at the web application firewall level and consider disabling the plugin if it is not essential for operations. Additional protective measures include implementing content security policies that restrict script execution and monitoring for unusual user behavior patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input sanitization and output encoding practices as outlined in OWASP Top 10 A03:2021 - Injection, where inadequate protection against cross-site scripting leads to unauthorized access and data compromise. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their WordPress installations to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or themes that may be susceptible to the same class of attack.