CVE-2017-14725 Scanner
CVE-2017-14725 Scanner - Open Redirect vulnerability in WordPress
Short Info
Level
Single Scan
Single Scan
Can be used by
Asset Owner
Estimated Time
10 seconds
Time Interval
3 weeks 16 hours
Scan only one
Domain, Subdomain, IPv4
Toolbox
WordPress is a widely used open-source content management system (CMS) that powers a significant portion of the websites on the internet. Developed initially for blogging, it has evolved into a robust platform supporting e-commerce, personal and business websites, and more. Users prefer WordPress due to its flexibility, ease of use, and a vast library of plugins and themes to extend its functionalities. Many businesses and individuals use WordPress to create and maintain a strong online presence due to its customizable nature. It is a popular choice among users ranging from small bloggers to large enterprises seeking to publish digital content efficiently. However, the popularity of WordPress also attracts attention from malicious attackers seeking to exploit vulnerabilities.
An Open Redirect vulnerability occurs when a web application validates user input improperly, allowing attackers to manipulate URLs and redirect users to malicious sites. This can lead unsuspecting users into phishing schemes or expose them to malware distribution. Open Redirects are particularly dangerous when exploited in popular platforms that users trust, such as WordPress. Affected users may experience disruptions, receive malicious content, or unknowingly share sensitive information with attackers. The vulnerability requires authenticated access to the admin interface to execute, limiting the attackers to those with some level of access.
The technical details of this vulnerability involve improper validation in the WordPress admin panels, specifically in files like wp-admin/edit-tag-form.php and wp-admin/user-edit.php. Attackers can exploit this by constructing malicious URLs that appear legitimate due to the trust in the WordPress interface. The vulnerability is characterized by redirection based on user input, improperly validated within these admin files. Exploiting this vulnerability involves utilizing a crafted URL, which then redirects authenticated users to potential harmful sites, exploiting the default validation mechanisms. The vulnerability is mitigated in versions 4.8.2 and later, which address the validation issues.
When exploited, an Open Redirect vulnerability can lead to several harmful effects. Users may unknowingly be redirected to phishing sites masquerading as legitimate platforms, risking credential theft or exposure to malware. Additionally, the exploit may undermine an organization's credibility, as users experience unanticipated redirects. Attackers can use this to facilitate man-in-the-middle attacks, gaining interceptive control of communications between users and their genuine intended destinations. The vulnerability could thus serve as a gateway to more severe intrusions, such as data breaches or unauthorized access, especially if logged-in users have access to sensitive information.
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