CVE-2024-5605 in Media Library Assistant Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/20/2024
The Media Library Assistant plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to time-based SQL Injection via the ‘order’ parameter within the mla_tag_cloud Shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 3.16 due to insufficient escaping on the user supplied parameter and lack of sufficient preparation on the existing SQL query. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to append additional SQL queries into already existing queries that can be used to extract sensitive information from the database.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/17/2024
The Media Library Assistant plugin for WordPress presents a critical time-based SQL injection vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-5605 affecting versions through 3.16. This vulnerability resides within the mla_tag_cloud shortcode functionality and represents a significant security weakness that can be exploited by authenticated attackers possessing contributor-level privileges or higher. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization and insufficient parameter preparation within the plugin's database query execution process, creating an exploitable pathway for malicious SQL command injection.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through the 'order' parameter within the mla_tag_cloud shortcode where user-supplied input is not properly escaped or validated before being incorporated into SQL queries. This insufficient escaping creates a condition where an attacker can manipulate the parameter to inject additional SQL commands that will execute within the existing database query context. The time-based nature of the injection means that attackers can infer information from the database through response timing variations, making the exploitation process more reliable and stealthy compared to traditional error-based injection techniques.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is substantial as it allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access to perform unauthorized database operations that can extract sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configuration details. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by users who should normally have restricted access to the WordPress administrative interface. Attackers can potentially extract database schema information, user account details, and other sensitive data that could facilitate further attacks or compromise the entire WordPress installation.
This vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws in software applications, and represents a clear violation of secure coding practices that should prevent user input from directly influencing database query construction. From an ATT&CK framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to T1213.002 (Data from Information Repositories) and T1566.001 (Phishing with Malicious Attachment) as attackers can use this weakness to extract data and potentially gain access to additional system resources. The vulnerability also demonstrates poor input validation and output encoding practices that are fundamental requirements for preventing injection attacks according to OWASP Top Ten and NIST cybersecurity guidelines.
The recommended mitigation strategy involves immediate patching of the Media Library Assistant plugin to version 3.17 or later where the SQL injection vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and parameter preparation. Administrators should also implement additional security measures including regular security audits of installed plugins, monitoring for suspicious user activities, and implementing web application firewalls to detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should consider reducing privilege levels for users who do not require full administrative access and maintain regular backup procedures to ensure rapid recovery in case of successful exploitation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough input validation and proper database query preparation practices that are essential for maintaining application security and preventing unauthorized data access.