CVE-2022-1903 : Security Advisory and Response

A detailed overview of the ARMember WordPress plugin vulnerability allowing unauthenticated users to perform an account takeover, including the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2022-1903

This CVE discloses a critical vulnerability in the ARMember WordPress plugin version less than 3.4.8, enabling unauthenticated users to execute an admin account takeover.

What is CVE-2022-1903?

The ARMember WordPress plugin before version 3.4.8 suffers from an account takeover flaw due to the absence of nonce and authorization checks in an AJAX action accessible to unauthorized users. This allows them to change passwords for any user by knowing their usernames.

The Impact of CVE-2022-1903

The vulnerability grants unauthenticated users the ability to compromise user accounts, including administrator accounts, posing a significant security risk to affected websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-1903

This section delves into specific technical aspects of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The absence of critical nonce and authorization checks in an AJAX action makes it possible for unauthenticated users to manipulate arbitrary user passwords through the plugin, resulting in unauthorized account access.

Affected Systems and Versions

ARMember WordPress plugin versions prior to 3.4.8 are identified as vulnerable to this account takeover exploit.

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthorized users exploit the missing security validations to alter user passwords without authentication, gaining unauthorized access to user accounts.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the methods to address and prevent exploitation of CVE-2022-1903.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to update the ARMember plugin to version 3.4.8 or later immediately to mitigate the account takeover risk.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security measures, including regular plugin updates, strong password policies, and user authentication protocols, can help bolster website security.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for plugin updates and apply patches promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of the website.