CVE-2024-35777: Uncovering a Content Spoofing Vulnerability in Automattic WooCommerce due to Injection in Output Neutralization

With the latest security updates bringing to light the vulnerability known as CVE-2024-35777, many WooCommerce users have been caught off guard. This issue affects WooCommerce from versions not available through 8.9.2, where it can lead to content spoofing due to the improper neutralization of special elements in output used by a downstream component. The vulnerability, classified as an 'Injection' vulnerability, poses a significant risk to the e-commerce websites powered by WooCommerce, their user data, and the overall security of the platform. In this long read, we'll dissect the details of this vulnerability and examine how it can be exploited, as well as go over the code snippets and original references related to the issue.

What is CVE-2024-35777?

To put it simply, CVE-2024-35777 corresponds to a specific type of vulnerability that may allow an attacker to manipulate or falsify user content on a WooCommerce site. This is possible due to the platform's improper neutralization of special elements utilized by a downstream component. As a result, a potential attacker could inject malicious content, compromising the accuracy and trustworthiness of the platform.

The issue affects WooCommerce from unknown versions up through version 8.9.2, and its CVE (Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures) identification follows the format, "CVE-YYYY-NNNNN," where YYYY represents the year of disclosure (2024) and NNNNN is the unique identification number (35777) assigned to this specific vulnerability.

Code Snippet

The vulnerability's origin is linked to the inadequate neutralization of special elements in the output generated by a downstream component. This code snippet in PHP demonstrates how the lack of proper neutralization can result in injection vulnerability:

function output_bad_code($user_input) {
  // Process the input, manipulate it if necessary
  $processed_input = process_input($user_input);
  
  // The following line does not neutralize special elements in the user input.
  // This can lead to injection vulnerabilities.
  echo "<div class='user-output'>$processed_input</div>";
}

Exploit Details

Attackers can take advantage of the vulnerability by injecting malicious content into a site's output. This may include scripts or HTML elements that can manipulate user data, present false information, or redirect users to malicious websites. Here's an example of what an attacker might try to inject:

<script>
  document.write('<h1>Welcome to our fake promotion!</h1>');
  document.write('<p>Get 50% off by clicking <a href="https://malicious.example.com">here</a>.</p>';);
</script>

A successful injection of the malicious content might result in the display of a misleading banner on the website, potentially tricking the site's users and exposing their data to attackers.

Original References

Further information about this vulnerability can be derived from the related repository and documentation:

1. CVE Details - Offers a summary of the specific vulnerability, including affected versions and other relevant data. CVE-2024-35777 - Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in the Output Used by a Downstream Component - CVE Details

2. NVD (National Vulnerability Database) - Provides an extensive analysis, including CVE identification, publication and modification dates, and assessment information of the vulnerability. CVE-2024-35777 Detail - NVD

3. Automattic WooCommerce Repository - Gives insight into the WooCommerce source code and allows users to understand the context in which the Injection vulnerability occurred. WooCommerce GitHub Repository - Github

Conclusion

Having reviewed the details surrounding CVE-2024-35777, it's crucial for WooCommerce users to be aware of the risks associated with this Injection issue and take necessary measures to safeguard their sites. Implementing proper neutralization techniques and staying up-to-date with security updates can mitigate threats and ensure the integrity of their online stores.

As users, we must remain vigilant and report suspicious activities or vulnerabilities to help ensure the ongoing security of our favorite platforms.

Timeline

Published on: 07/09/2024 10:15:03 UTC
Last modified on: 07/09/2024 18:19:14 UTC