CVE-2022-4158 : Security Advisory and Response

A SQL injection vulnerability has been identified in Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugins, allowing unauthorized access to sensitive information from the site's database.

Understanding CVE-2022-4158

This section provides insights into the vulnerability, its impacts, and technical details.

What is CVE-2022-4158?

The Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugins before version 19.1.5.1 are susceptible to an SQL injection flaw. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute malicious SQL queries and potentially extract sensitive data from the site's database.

The Impact of CVE-2022-4158

The lack of proper input sanitization in the plugins' code allows attackers to manipulate SQL queries, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information. This can result in data leakage, compromise of user credentials, and overall security risks for the affected websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-4158

This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the plugins' failure to properly escape the cg_Fields POST parameter before using it in SQL queries within the 'users-registry-check-registering-and-login.php' file. This oversight enables attackers to inject malicious SQL code and retrieve sensitive data.

Affected Systems and Versions

Both Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugins versions prior to 19.1.5.1 are affected by this SQL injection vulnerability. Websites using these versions are at risk of exploitation unless patched.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially-crafted SQL injection payloads via the vulnerable 'cg_Fields' parameter. By manipulating the SQL queries, malicious actors can access, modify, or retrieve data stored in the website's database.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn about the steps to mitigate the CVE-2022-4158 vulnerability and safeguard your WordPress website from potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro plugins to version 19.1.5.1 or later to address the SQL injection vulnerability.
Monitor website activity for any suspicious behavior or unauthorized access following the patch installation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update WordPress plugins and themes to ensure the latest security fixes are in place.
Implement input validation and secure coding practices to prevent SQL injection and other common web vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro plugins. Promptly apply patches and follow best practices to enhance your website's security.