CVE-2022-4163 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2022-4163, a SQL injection vulnerability in Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugins pre 19.1.5.1, leading to data exposure risks.
A SQL injection vulnerability in the Contest Gallery WordPress plugin and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugin could lead to sensitive data exposure.
Understanding CVE-2022-4163
This CVE identifies a SQL injection flaw present in the Contest Gallery WordPress plugin and Contest Gallery Pro WordPress plugin.
What is CVE-2022-4163?
The vulnerability arises from improper handling of POST parameters in specific PHP files, potentially exposing sensitive information to attackers with author privileges.
The Impact of CVE-2022-4163
Malicious users with author privileges could exploit this vulnerability to retrieve sensitive data from the site's database, posing a risk to data confidentiality.
Technical Details of CVE-2022-4163
This section provides in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The issue occurs due to insufficient sanitization of POST parameters, specifically in two PHP files (2_deactivate.php and 4_activate.php), allowing for SQL injection attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects versions of Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro plugins prior to 19.1.5.1.
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers with author privileges can manipulate the POST parameters to execute malicious SQL queries and extract sensitive data from the site's database.
Mitigation and Prevention
Explore the following strategies to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2022-4163.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update Contest Gallery and Contest Gallery Pro plugins to version 19.1.5.1 or higher to patch the vulnerability.
- Monitor database activities for any suspicious queries or unauthorized access.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly audit and review plugins and extensions for security vulnerabilities.
- Educate users with author privileges on secure coding practices to prevent SQL injection attacks.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the plugin developers to address known vulnerabilities.