CVE-2022-3839: Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability in Analytics for WordPress Plugin (Versions <= 1.5.1)

A serious security vulnerability has been identified in the "Analytics for WP" WordPress plugin (versions up to and including 1.5.1). The vulnerability (assigned CVE ID CVE-2022-3839) exposes websites running this plugin to the risk of Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. It affects primarily high privilege users, such as administrators, even if the unfiltered_html capability is disallowed by the WordPress multisite configuration.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting is a type of web application security vulnerability, where an attacker injects malicious scripts into a victim's webpage via some input mechanism. These malicious scripts are later executed by the victim's browser as they load the affected webpage, potentially leading to sensitive data theft, session hijacking, or other harmful outcomes.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability exists because the "Analytics for WP" plugin does not adequately sanitise and escape some of its settings. This security deficiency makes it possible for an attacker with high privilege access to a WordPress site (such as an administrator) to perform a Stored Cross-Site Scripting attack.

Here's an example of how the vulnerability could be exploited, using a malicious JavaScript payload

1. A high privilege user with access to the "Analytics for WP" plugin settings page adds the following malicious JavaScript code as the "Google Analytics Tracking ID":

<script>alert('XSS Attack!');</script>

2. The malicious JavaScript code is stored in the plugin's database without being properly sanitised and escaped.

3. Next, a regular site visitor loads a webpage on the website that uses the "Analytics for WP" plugin. The stored malicious JavaScript is executed in the visitor's browser, potentially causing damage or stealing sensitive information.

The vulnerability was originally disclosed through the following sources

- CVE-2022-3839
- WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Database
- Plugin Homepage

Mitigation and Patching

It's crucial for website owners and administrators who use the "Analytics for WP" plugin to take immediate action to protect their sites:

1. Update the plugin to the latest version (if available) by visiting the plugin's homepage on the WordPress Plugin Repository. Developers typically release security patches to address such vulnerabilities.

2. Alternatively, if an updated version is not available or updating is not viable, consider disabling or uninstalling the plugin until a security patch is released. This may temporarily affect site functionality, but it's essential to protect your visitors and website.

Conclusion

CVE-2022-3839 is a critical security vulnerability affecting the "Analytics for WP" WordPress plugin (up to version 1.5.1). The vulnerability allows high privilege users, such as administrators, to conduct Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks on unsuspecting website visitors. It's crucial for website owners and administrators to promptly update to the latest patched version or disable the affected plugin to secure their websites from potential attacks.

Timeline

Published on: 11/28/2022 14:15:00 UTC
Last modified on: 11/30/2022 03:50:00 UTC