CVE-2022-1938 : Security Advisory and Response

Awin Data Feed WordPress plugin before version 1.8 is vulnerable to unauthenticated stored cross-site scripting attacks, posing a security risk to logged-in admins.

Understanding CVE-2022-1938

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in the Awin Data Feed WordPress plugin that could be exploited by unauthenticated users for stored cross-site scripting attacks.

What is CVE-2022-1938?

The Awin Data Feed plugin, versions prior to 1.8, fails to sanitize and escape a header during the processing of requests to generate analytics data. This oversight allows unauthenticated users to execute stored cross-site scripting attacks against an admin who is viewing the plugin's settings.

The Impact of CVE-2022-1938

The vulnerability could lead to unauthorized modification of content, stealing of sensitive information, or performing actions on behalf of the admin without their consent. As a result, it jeopardizes the security and integrity of the affected WordPress websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-1938

This section delves deeper into the technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of proper sanitization and escaping of headers in the Awin Data Feed plugin, which exposes it to stored cross-site scripting attacks by unauthenticated users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Awin Data Feed plugin versions prior to 1.8 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the lack of sanitization, malicious actors can inject and execute malicious scripts within the plugin's settings, potentially compromising the security of the website.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting your WordPress site from CVE-2022-1938 requires immediate action and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Awin Data Feed plugin to version 1.8 or above to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor user activity and be cautious while accessing the plugin settings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all plugins and themes to their latest versions.
Implement security plugins and firewalls to enhance website security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the plugin developer. Apply patches promptly to safeguard your website from potential exploits.