CVE-2024-51623 in WP EIS Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/09/2024
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in Mehrdad Farahani WP EIS allows SQL Injection.This issue affects WP EIS: from n/a through 1.3.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/09/2024
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-51623 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WP EIS plugin for WordPress, specifically impacting versions ranging from an unspecified initial version through 1.3.3. This weakness falls under the well-documented category of improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands, a classification that aligns with CWE-89 and represents one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security vulnerabilities. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's database query execution processes, where user-supplied data is directly incorporated into SQL statements without proper escaping or parameterization.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can manipulate input fields that are subsequently used in SQL queries without appropriate sanitization measures. This allows malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL code that can be executed by the database server, potentially enabling unauthorized access to sensitive data, modification of database contents, or even complete database compromise. The vulnerability's impact is amplified within the WordPress ecosystem where plugins often handle user input and interact directly with database systems, creating multiple potential attack vectors for exploitation. The specific nature of this SQL injection vulnerability means that attackers can leverage it to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract confidential information from the database, or manipulate stored data through crafted input parameters.
The operational implications of CVE-2024-51623 extend beyond simple data theft, encompassing potential full system compromise and persistent backdoor establishment. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can gain unauthorized access to user accounts, customer information, and other sensitive data stored within the WordPress database. The vulnerability's presence in the WP EIS plugin creates a significant risk for organizations relying on WordPress for their web presence, particularly those handling sensitive data or requiring robust security controls. Given the widespread adoption of WordPress and its plugins, this vulnerability could affect numerous websites and applications, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns. The attack surface is particularly concerning as it operates at the database level, where successful exploitation can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability must be implemented immediately through comprehensive patch management procedures and proactive security measures. The primary remediation involves updating the WP EIS plugin to a version that addresses the SQL injection vulnerability, which typically includes implementing proper input sanitization, parameterized queries, and input validation mechanisms. Organizations should also implement web application firewalls and database activity monitoring to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The implementation of principle of least privilege for database accounts, combined with regular security audits and input validation testing, forms essential components of a comprehensive defense strategy. Additionally, following security best practices such as those outlined in the OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity frameworks can help organizations better protect against similar vulnerabilities and strengthen overall security posture. This vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of regular security assessments and maintaining up-to-date software components to prevent exploitation of known security weaknesses.