CVE-2016-15041 Scanner

MainWP Dashboard is a popular WordPress plugin used to manage multiple WordPress websites from a single dashboard. It is typically used by web administrators and developers for tasks such as updates, backups, and performance checks. This plugin helps streamline the management process of several WordPress sites without the need to log in separately to each one. Organizations and individuals use this plugin to ensure their WordPress sites run smoothly and securely. As the plugin deals with core management tasks, its robustness and security are critical. It simplifies routine and complex tasks, contributing to overall site efficiency.

The vulnerability detected in MainWP Dashboard versions up to 3.1.2 is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue. This vulnerability arises when user inputs are not correctly sanitized and output escaped in the 'mwp_setup_purchase_username' parameter. This oversight can enable unauthenticated attackers to inject malicious scripts into the application. When these injected scripts execute, typically as users access affected pages, they can cause widespread harm. Stored XSS vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous as they persist within the system, making them harder to detect and remove. These attacks persistently affect users who access the vulnerable component.

The technical details of this vulnerability involve specific endpoints and parameters within the MainWP Dashboard. The parameter mwp_setup_purchase_username' is exploited by inputting scripts that are executed on mouseover events. Exploitation typically requires sending crafted requests to vulnerable pages, which the attacker can achieve by exploiting a lack of input validation. The endpoint handling this vulnerable parameter does not implement sufficient checks, leaving the systems open to persistent attack vectors. The malicious script stays in the system, making it execute whenever the affected section is accessed. Proper security measures were not in place to escape the outputs correctly, resulting in persistent risk exposure.

When exploited, this vulnerability may allow attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the browser of users visiting the affected components of the sites managed through MainWP. Potential consequences include session hijacking, unauthorized actions on a user's behalf, phishing attacks, defacement of the website, or redirection to malicious websites. Users' sessions can be compromised, allowing attackers to assume their identities within the systems. The persistent nature of the attack ensures that any new user accessing the compromised component is similarly at risk. The stored XSS can lead to a chain of further attacks, extending the impact significantly.

REFERENCES

• https://klikki.fi/mainwp-admin-panel-unauthenticated-stored-xss/