CVE-2024-8722 in WP All Import Pro Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/19/2025
The Import any XML or CSV File to WordPress PRO plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via SVG File uploads in all versions up to, and including, 4.9.7 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses the SVG file.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/09/2025
The CVE-2024-8722 vulnerability affects the Import any XML or CSV File to WordPress PRO plugin, a widely used tool for data import operations within WordPress environments. This plugin version 4.9.7 and earlier contains a critical security flaw that enables stored cross-site scripting attacks through SVG file uploads, representing a significant risk to WordPress site administrators and their users. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of SVG file uploads, which are commonly used for vector graphics and images in web applications. The flaw allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level privileges or higher to inject malicious scripts that persist within the system and execute whenever users access the compromised SVG files.
The technical root cause of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms within the plugin's file upload processing functionality. When administrators upload SVG files through the plugin interface, the system fails to properly validate or sanitize the file contents before storing them in the WordPress environment. This inadequate validation creates an opportunity for attackers to embed malicious JavaScript code within SVG files that contain embedded scripts or external references. The vulnerability operates under CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, where the system fails to properly escape output data before rendering it in web pages. The stored nature of this vulnerability means that once malicious SVG files are uploaded and saved to the server, they remain persistent and will execute automatically whenever any user accesses the affected files.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, as it provides attackers with a persistent foothold within the WordPress environment that can be leveraged for further compromise. Since the vulnerability requires only administrator-level access to exploit, it represents a particularly dangerous flaw for sites where administrative credentials might be compromised through phishing, credential reuse, or other attack vectors. The malicious scripts could potentially steal session cookies, redirect users to malicious sites, or even execute more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation within the WordPress installation. This vulnerability directly aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.002 which covers the use of malicious file uploads to gain initial access or maintain persistence within target systems. The threat landscape is further complicated by the fact that SVG files are commonly used in web applications and often considered safe for upload, making this attack vector particularly stealthy and effective.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-8722 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the sanitization and escaping vulnerabilities, while also implementing additional defensive measures. Organizations should ensure that all administrators use strong authentication methods including multi-factor authentication and regularly rotate administrative credentials to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual file upload activities, particularly for SVG and other image formats that may contain embedded scripts. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution even if an attack successfully bypasses other controls. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify other potential vulnerabilities that may exist in the environment. Administrators should also consider implementing file type restrictions and content validation for all file uploads, particularly for SVG files that may contain executable content. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and output escaping in web applications, as outlined in the OWASP Top Ten security principles that emphasize the need for comprehensive sanitization of all user-provided data before processing or storage.