CVE-2025-52832 in NGG Smart Image Search Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/04/2025
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in wpo-HR NGG Smart Image Search allows SQL Injection. This issue affects NGG Smart Image Search: from n/a through 3.4.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/07/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical sql injection flaw in the wpo-hr ngg smart image search plugin which operates under the broader category of improper neutralization of special elements in sql commands. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's database query execution processes, allowing malicious actors to inject arbitrary sql code through specially crafted input parameters. The affected version range spans from an unspecified starting point through version 3.4.1, indicating this weakness has persisted across multiple releases and likely represents a long-standing security gap in the plugin's architecture.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user-supplied data enters the sql query execution pipeline without proper sanitization or parameterization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by manipulating image search parameters or other input fields that ultimately translate into database queries. This allows for unauthorized access to database contents, potential data exfiltration, and in severe cases, complete database compromise. The vulnerability directly maps to common weakness enumeration CWE-89 which specifically addresses sql injection vulnerabilities, and aligns with attack techniques documented in the attack tree framework under T1190 - exploitation of sql injection vulnerabilities. The flaw essentially permits attackers to bypass normal authentication mechanisms and execute malicious sql statements that can alter or retrieve sensitive data from the underlying database system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft to encompass complete system compromise and potential lateral movement within affected networks. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can gain access to user credentials, personal information, and other sensitive data stored within the database. The plugin's integration with wordpress environments amplifies the risk as compromised databases often contain additional user information, configuration data, and potentially other vulnerable applications. This vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited repeatedly and may provide attackers with a foothold for further attacks against the broader system infrastructure, particularly when combined with other exploitation techniques from the attack framework.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the affected plugin versions to address the root cause of the sql injection vulnerability. System administrators must implement proper input validation and parameterized query execution throughout the application code to prevent similar issues in the future. Database access controls should be reviewed and restricted to minimize potential damage from successful exploitation attempts. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional layers of protection against sql injection attempts. Organizations should also conduct comprehensive security assessments of their wordpress installations to identify other potential vulnerabilities within the same plugin ecosystem or related components. Regular security updates and vulnerability scanning should be implemented as part of standard security operations to prevent similar issues from persisting in the environment.