CVE-2021-25114 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The Paid Memberships Pro WordPress plugin before version 2.6.7 is impacted by an Unauthenticated Blind SQL Injection vulnerability. This CVE allows unauthenticated users to inject malicious SQL statements via a specific REST route, specifically the discount_code parameter.

Understanding CVE-2021-25114

This section will cover the basics of the CVE-2021-25114 vulnerability in the Paid Memberships Pro WordPress plugin.

What is CVE-2021-25114?

The CVE-2021-25114 vulnerability arises from a failure to properly escape the discount_code parameter in a REST route, enabling unauthenticated users to execute SQL injection attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-25114

The impact of this vulnerability is severe as it allows attackers to manipulate SQL queries, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data or unauthorized actions within the application.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-25114

In this section, we will delve into the technical specifics of CVE-2021-25114 found in the Paid Memberships Pro WordPress plugin.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability occurs due to the lack of proper input sanitization in the discount_code parameter of a REST route, which can be exploited by malicious actors to insert SQL code.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Paid Memberships Pro versions prior to 2.6.7. Users of versions equal to or below 2.6.7 are advised to take immediate action.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted requests containing malicious SQL statements via the discount_code parameter in the unauthenticated REST route.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-25114 in the Paid Memberships Pro plugin, users should take the following preventive measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update the Paid Memberships Pro plugin to version 2.6.7 or above to patch the SQL injection vulnerability and prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement secure coding practices, input validation, and restrict unauthenticated access to sensitive endpoints to enhance overall application security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches released by the plugin vendor to address vulnerabilities promptly and ensure continued protection.