CVE-2019-14979 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The WooCommerce PayPal Checkout Payment Gateway plugin 1.6.17 for WordPress has a vulnerability that allows for Parameter Tampering in the amount parameter, potentially leading to purchasing items at lower prices than intended.

Understanding CVE-2019-14979

This CVE involves a specific vulnerability in the WooCommerce PayPal Checkout Payment Gateway plugin for WordPress.

What is CVE-2019-14979?

The vulnerability in the plugin's cgi-bin/webscr?cmd=_cart endpoint enables Parameter Tampering in the amount parameter, allowing users to manipulate the price of items during the purchase process.

The Impact of CVE-2019-14979

Exploiting this vulnerability can result in unauthorized purchases at reduced prices, affecting the integrity of transactions and potentially causing financial losses.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-14979

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the WooCommerce PayPal Checkout Payment Gateway plugin allows for Parameter Tampering in the amount parameter, enabling users to alter item prices during the purchase process.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: WooCommerce PayPal Checkout Payment Gateway plugin 1.6.17
Vendor: N/A
Version: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can manipulate the amount parameter during the PayPal payment process to purchase items at lower prices.
The plugin validates the amount against the total order value in WooCommerce before finalizing the transaction.
If the amounts do not match, the order will be placed in an 'On Hold' status.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from this vulnerability is crucial to maintaining security.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the WooCommerce PayPal Checkout Payment Gateway plugin to the latest version.
Monitor transactions for any suspicious activity related to price manipulation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and update plugins and software to address security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe online purchasing practices to prevent exploitation of such vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by plugin developers.
Implement a robust patch management process to promptly apply necessary updates.