Source: cve@mitre.org
Multiple cross-site request forgery (CSRF) vulnerabilities in the Wp Unique Article Header Image plugin 1.0 and earlier for WordPress allow remote attackers to hijack the authentication of administrators for requests that conduct cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks via the (1) gt_default_header or (2) gt_homepage_header parameter in the wp-unique-header.php page to wp-admin/options-general.php.
**Attackers can exploit a cross-site request forgery (CSRF) vulnerability in the Wp Unique Article Header Image plugin for WordPress to inject malicious JavaScript code, leading to complete administrator account takeover. This allows for full website compromise, including data theft, defacement, and the installation of backdoors. The vulnerability is easily exploited due to the lack of CSRF protection and the ability to inject arbitrary code.
Step 1: Crafting the Malicious Payload: The attacker crafts a malicious JavaScript payload designed to perform actions like creating a new administrator account, installing a backdoor, or stealing the administrator's session cookie.
Step 2: Social Engineering: The attacker uses social engineering techniques (e.g., phishing emails, malicious advertisements) to trick an administrator into clicking a link or visiting a website controlled by the attacker.
Step 3: CSRF Attack: The attacker's crafted link or website contains a hidden HTML form or JavaScript code that automatically submits a request to the vulnerable wp-unique-header.php page on the target WordPress site. This request includes the malicious JavaScript payload within the gt_default_header or gt_homepage_header parameter.
Step 4: Payload Execution: Because the administrator is already authenticated and the plugin lacks CSRF protection, the malicious request is processed by the server. The injected JavaScript payload is stored in the database.
Step 5: XSS Trigger: When the administrator views a page where the plugin's header image is displayed, the stored malicious JavaScript payload is executed within the administrator's browser, effectively hijacking their session and granting the attacker administrator privileges.
The vulnerability stems from a combination of factors. The plugin fails to validate or sanitize user-supplied input for the gt_default_header and gt_homepage_header parameters within the wp-unique-header.php page. This allows an attacker to inject malicious JavaScript code (XSS). Furthermore, the plugin lacks CSRF protection, meaning that an attacker can trick an authenticated administrator into executing a crafted request without their knowledge. When an administrator visits a malicious website or clicks a crafted link, the attacker's payload is executed within the administrator's browser, enabling them to modify plugin settings, install backdoors, or steal sensitive information. The root cause is a missing input validation and CSRF protection in the plugin's code.
While specific APT groups are not directly linked to this specific CVE, the nature of the vulnerability (XSS and CSRF) makes it attractive to a wide range of attackers, including those seeking to establish a foothold for further attacks. This type of vulnerability is often used by attackers to gain initial access. CISA KEV status: Not listed.
Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests to wp-admin/options-general.php with parameters gt_default_header or gt_homepage_header containing unusual or potentially malicious JavaScript code.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to detect and block XSS and CSRF attacks. Look for unusual patterns in HTTP requests.
Analyze WordPress database for unexpected changes in plugin settings or the presence of malicious JavaScript code within the wp_options table, specifically looking for entries related to the plugin.
Use a file integrity monitoring tool to detect unauthorized modifications to plugin files, including wp-unique-header.php.
Monitor network traffic for unusual outbound connections from the web server, which could indicate data exfiltration or command-and-control activity.
Update the Wp Unique Article Header Image plugin to a patched version or uninstall it if no longer needed.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious requests.
Implement CSRF protection in the plugin's code by adding a unique token to all forms and validating it on the server-side.
Sanitize all user-supplied input before storing it in the database and before displaying it on the website.
Regularly scan the website for vulnerabilities using a vulnerability scanner.
Enforce the principle of least privilege for all user accounts.
Educate administrators about the dangers of phishing and social engineering attacks.
Consider using a Content Security Policy (CSP) to mitigate XSS attacks.