The Secure Copy Content Protection and Content Locking WordPress plugin before 2.8.2 does not escape the sccp_id parameter of the ays_sccp_results_export_file AJAX action, which is available to both unauthenticated and authenticated users. This vulnerability allows attackers to perform an SQL injection attack, potentially compromising the database and the data it holds.
This vulnerability has been classified as critical, with a CVSS score of 9.8, indicating a severe risk to organizations using this plugin. The exploitation status is noteworthy, as public exploits are available, which increases the urgency for organizations to address this issue.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. With the potential for high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts, the risk is substantial, and prompt action is required.
The vulnerability was published on December 6, 2021, and has been classified under CWE-89 for SQL injection. As of now, the status remains modified, reflecting the ongoing threat landscape surrounding this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The Secure Copy Content Protection and Content Locking WordPress plugin allows attackers to manipulate SQL queries through unsanitized user inputs. Specifically, the lack of escaping for the sccp_id parameter creates an attack vector that could be exploited by sending crafted requests to the vulnerable AJAX action.
This vulnerability's CVSS score of 9.8 classifies it as critical due to its high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based, with low attack complexity and no privileges required, making it accessible to a wide range of potential attackers.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in improper input validation and escaping mechanisms for the sccp_id parameter. Attackers can exploit this weakness by submitting specially crafted AJAX requests that inject malicious SQL code into the database queries.
The attack vector is network-based, allowing exploitation without physical access to the server. The attack complexity is low, with no user interaction required, meaning that even unskilled attackers can potentially execute this attack.
The vulnerability does not require any authentication, further increasing its risk profile. The high impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability emphasize the urgency for organizations to remediate this vulnerability.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The SQL injection vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data access, data corruption, and potentially complete control over the affected database. Organizations utilizing the AYS-PRO Secure Copy Content Protection and Content Locking plugin are at risk of significant data breaches and loss of user trust.
Given the widespread use of WordPress and the accessibility of this vulnerability, the blast radius is potentially large, affecting numerous sites and their users. The critical CVSS score underscores the need for immediate action.
Organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize mitigation efforts based on the criticality of this vulnerability. The EPSS score of 0.7216 places this vulnerability in the 98th percentile for exploitation likelihood, reinforcing the case for rapid remediation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of the AYS-PRO Secure Copy Content Protection and Content Locking plugin prior to version 2.8.2 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations using this plugin should upgrade to version 2.8.2 or later to ensure protection against this SQL injection flaw.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should implement the following remediation steps to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability:
1. Upgrade to the latest version of the Secure Copy Content Protection and Content Locking plugin (2.8.2 or later).
2. Review and sanitize all user inputs to prevent SQL injection vulnerabilities.
3. Implement web application firewalls to help filter out malicious requests.
4. Regularly monitor application logs for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation attempts.
For further guidance, organizations can refer to our penetration testing services.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor for the following indicators to detect any potential exploitation attempts:
1. Unusual database queries or error messages related to SQL syntax.
2. Logs showing access to the ays_sccp_results_export_file AJAX action from unauthenticated users.
3. Any changes in database structure or unexpected data loss.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The emergence of this SQL injection vulnerability highlights the ongoing challenges organizations face in securing web applications. As web technologies evolve, so do the methods employed by attackers. This vulnerability serves as a reminder for security teams to continuously monitor and harden their applications against such risks.
It is crucial for organizations to adopt a proactive approach to security by regularly updating their software, conducting security assessments, and educating their development teams on secure coding practices.
For insights on vulnerability management, organizations can explore our vulnerability management program guide.
Additionally, for organizations looking to enhance their security posture, our penetration testing methodology can provide valuable strategies.
Finally, to understand the broader implications of such vulnerabilities in the current threat landscape, organizations should review our insights on ransomware targeting trends and their potential impact.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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