CVE-2024-8855 in Auction Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/07/2025
The WordPress Auction Plugin WordPress plugin through 3.7 does not sanitize and escape a parameter before using it in a SQL statement, allowing editors and above to perform SQL injection attacks
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/07/2025
The WordPress Auction Plugin version 3.7 and earlier contains a critical SQL injection vulnerability that affects users with editor roles and higher privileges. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and escaping mechanisms within the plugin's database interaction code. The flaw exists in how the plugin processes user-supplied parameters when constructing SQL queries, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject arbitrary SQL commands into the database layer. Attackers with editor-level access or higher can exploit this weakness to manipulate database operations, potentially gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information or modifying critical system data.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the plugin's failure to properly sanitize user input before incorporating it into SQL statements. This represents a classic SQL injection flaw that aligns with CWE-89, which specifically addresses improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands. The vulnerability occurs when the plugin accepts parameters from user-facing interfaces or API endpoints without adequate validation or escaping, allowing malicious input to be interpreted as part of the SQL command rather than as literal data. The affected parameter handling likely occurs in functions that process auction listings, bid management, or user interaction data within the plugin's core functionality.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it enables attackers to perform extensive database manipulation operations. An attacker with editor privileges could potentially extract all user credentials, auction data, or system configurations from the WordPress database. The vulnerability also supports more sophisticated attacks such as privilege escalation, data modification, or even complete system compromise if combined with other exploitation techniques. This weakness particularly affects WordPress installations where multiple users have editor access, making it a significant concern for sites with collaborative content management or marketplace functionality.
Security mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should include immediate patching of the WordPress Auction Plugin to version 3.8 or later, which contains the necessary sanitization fixes. Organizations should also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns. Additionally, administrators should conduct privilege reviews to ensure that only essential personnel maintain editor or higher roles within WordPress installations. The mitigation approach aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which addresses valid accounts and privilege escalation, as the vulnerability exploits existing user permissions rather than requiring initial access through other vectors. Regular security audits and input validation testing should be implemented to identify similar vulnerabilities in other plugins or custom code components within the WordPress ecosystem.