The Page Builder KingComposer WordPress plugin through 2.9.6 does not validate the id parameter before redirecting the user to it via the kc_get_thumbn AJAX action, which is available to both unauthenticated and authenticated users. This lack of validation can lead to an open redirect vulnerability.
With a CVSS score of 6.1, this vulnerability is classified as medium severity. Organizations using this plugin should be aware of the potential risks associated with this vulnerability, which can allow attackers to redirect users to malicious sites.
Risk to organizations includes exposure to phishing attacks and other malicious activities that can compromise user data. As this vulnerability impacts both authenticated and unauthenticated users, it broadens the attack surface significantly.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The Page Builder KingComposer plugin is susceptible to an open redirect due to improper validation of the id parameter. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-601, indicating that it allows for a redirect to an arbitrary location based on user input.
The CVSS score of 6.1 reflects a medium severity level, with an attack vector that is network-based. The attack complexity is low, requiring no privileges, but user interaction is necessary for an attack to be successful.
The vulnerability was published on March 14, 2022. Organizations using the affected versions of the KingComposer plugin should review their installations and apply the necessary updates.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the failure to validate user input before processing it for redirection. This oversight allows attackers to manipulate the id parameter, leading to potential redirection to malicious sites.
The attack vector for this vulnerability is network-based, meaning that an attacker can exploit it without physical access to the targeted system. The complexity of the attack is low, which means that even less skilled attackers can execute it, especially since no special privileges are required.
User interaction is required to trigger the vulnerability, as the target user must be directed to click on a malicious link. The impact on confidentiality and integrity is low, but the availability impact is non-existent, as the vulnerability does not result in denial of service.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing the KingComposer plugin must understand the real-world risks posed by this vulnerability. Attackers may leverage this flaw to redirect users to malicious sites, potentially leading to phishing attacks that exploit user credentials or sensitive data.
The potential blast radius includes any user interacting with the vulnerable plugin, significantly increasing the risk of unauthorized access to sensitive information. Given the medium severity level and the fact that it affects a plugin commonly used in WordPress installations, organizations should address this issue in their priority patch cycle.
The CVSS score of 6.1 signals a medium urgency for remediation. Organizations should schedule updates to the KingComposer plugin to mitigate this risk effectively.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | Yes |
Public PoC | Yes |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of the KingComposer plugin prior to 2.9.6 are affected. Organizations should ensure they are running the latest version to avoid potential exploits.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should update the KingComposer plugin to the latest version immediately. If a patch is not available, consider implementing input validation mechanisms to sanitize user input before processing.
Additionally, organizations should review their configurations and ensure proper network controls are in place to monitor and restrict unauthorized access.
Configuration hardening should also be a priority, ensuring that any unnecessary functionalities are disabled to reduce exposure.
For more information on security practices, organizations can refer to our penetration testing services.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual redirection activities and analyze user interactions that could indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability. Behavioral anomalies in user sessions, especially those involving the kc_get_thumbn AJAX action, should be flagged.
Network signatures corresponding to requests made to the affected plugin should also be established to detect potential exploitation attempts.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability lies in its demonstration of the importance of input validation and user input handling in web applications. This incident serves as a reminder for security teams to perform regular audits of their code and third-party components.
The pattern of vulnerabilities related to improper input handling highlights the need for robust security practices in web development. Organizations should consider implementing comprehensive security testing as part of their development lifecycle.
For further insights and best practices, organizations can explore our vulnerability management program guide.
Additionally, leveraging our penetration testing methodology can help identify similar weaknesses in your applications.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
.webp)