CVE-2019-9879 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

WordPress plugin WPGraphQL 0.2.3 allows remote attackers to create new user accounts with admin privileges.

Understanding CVE-2019-9879

When the new user registration feature is activated in the WPGraphQL 0.2.3 plugin for WordPress, a vulnerability enables attackers to create a new user account with administrative privileges.

What is CVE-2019-9879?

The vulnerability in WPGraphQL 0.2.3 plugin for WordPress allows remote attackers to register a new user with admin privileges when new user registrations are allowed. This issue is specifically related to the registerUser mutation.

The Impact of CVE-2019-9879

Remote attackers can exploit this vulnerability to create new user accounts with administrative privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2019-9879

The technical details of the CVE-2019-9879 vulnerability are as follows:

Vulnerability Description

WPGraphQL 0.2.3 plugin for WordPress allows remote attackers to register a new user with admin privileges.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Version: Not applicable

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by activating the new user registration feature in the WPGraphQL 0.2.3 plugin for WordPress.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your system from CVE-2019-9879 with the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable the new user registration feature in WPGraphQL 0.2.3 plugin.
Update to WPGraphQL version 0.3.0 or later to patch the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update plugins and themes in WordPress.
Implement strong password policies and user access controls.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing regularly.
Stay informed about security best practices and vulnerabilities in WordPress.

Patching and Updates

Update to WPGraphQL version 0.3.0 or the latest available version to mitigate the vulnerability.