CVE-2026-16614 in GSheetConnector Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/01/2026
The GSheetConnector – CF7 Google Sheets Connector with Real-Time Sync plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to generic SQL Injection via the 's' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 5.2.1 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 administrator-level access and above, to append additional SQL queries into already existing queries that can be used to extract sensitive information from the database. wp_unslash() strips magic-quote protection and sanitize_text_field() does not escape SQL metacharacters, leaving single quotes and other SQL metacharacters intact before the value is interpolated into the query.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 08/01/2026
The GSheetConnector plugin for WordPress presents a critical generic SQL injection vulnerability that affects all versions up to and including 5.2.1, representing a significant security risk for affected installations. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and improper SQL query preparation mechanisms within the plugin's codebase. The flaw specifically manifests through the 's' parameter which is processed without sufficient escaping, creating an exploitable condition that allows malicious actors to manipulate database queries through crafted input.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability demonstrates a fundamental flaw in the plugin's data handling procedures where wp_unslash() function removes the protection provided by magic quotes while sanitize_text_field() fails to properly escape SQL metacharacters. This dual failure leaves single quotes and other SQL control characters intact within the parameter values, enabling attackers to inject additional SQL commands directly into existing queries. The vulnerability requires only administrator-level access or higher privileges to exploit, making it particularly dangerous as it can be leveraged by authenticated users with elevated permissions.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data extraction capabilities to potentially enable complete database compromise and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Attackers can leverage the SQL injection to retrieve administrative credentials, user data, plugin configurations, and other confidential information stored within the WordPress database. This weakness creates a persistent threat vector that could allow attackers to maintain long-term access to affected systems while potentially escalating privileges to gain full control over the WordPress installation.
Security mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the vulnerable plugin to version 5.2.2 or later, which addresses the SQL injection vulnerability through proper input sanitization and query preparation. Organizations should also implement additional security controls including database query monitoring, privilege restrictions for plugin installations, and regular security audits of installed WordPress plugins. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a technique commonly categorized under ATT&CK tactic TA0006 (Credential Access) and technique T1213 (Data from Information Repositories). Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls and database activity monitoring solutions to detect and prevent exploitation attempts.