CVE-2018-19207 Scanner

WP GDPR Compliance plugin by van-ons is utilized by website administrators using WordPress to ensure compliance with GDPR regulations. It automates certain GDPR tasks such as obtaining user consents, handling user requests, and more. Users across different sectors, from small blog owners to large companies using WordPress, rely on this plugin for data protection handling. It simplifies the compliance process by providing a user-friendly interface and integrating easily with existing setups. Given its crucial role in handling sensitive user data, security and functionality are paramount. This plugin assists WordPress administrators in managing GDPR requirements efficiently and effectively.

The vulnerability in WP GDPR Compliance allows unauthenticated users to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. It arises from insufficient input validation in the plugin's AJAX functionalities. Unauthenticated users can manipulate the plugin's AJAX endpoints to call unauthorized actions and update options in the database. This can lead to unauthorized access or modification of sensitive data and settings. Exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can perform operations meant to be restricted to administrators only. It is a critical vulnerability due to its potential to enable full system compromise if exploited.

The vulnerability specifically lies in the 'Includes/Ajax.php' file, which does not properly validate requests to its endpoints. Attackers can craft malicious requests to interact with the AJAX actions within WordPress. By bypassing security checks within the AJAX requests, they can execute functions without authentication. The flaw allows for the alteration of crucial settings, such as changing user roles or enabling account registrations. Taking advantage of the vulnerability requires crafting a POST request to 'wp-admin/admin-ajax.php' with manipulated parameters to trigger an unauthorized action. The lack of nonce verification contributes to how users can bypass authentication controls.

Exploiting this vulnerability can result in significant security breaches, allowing attackers to gain control over the affected WordPress site. Potential outcomes include unauthorized creation of administrative accounts, changing default user roles, and allowing anyone to register without restrictions. Malicious actors exploiting this flaw could alter data integrity, disrupt business operations, and lead to sensitive data exposure. Remediation is essential to prevent exploitation that could compromise personal data protected under GDPR. Failing to address this could lead to legal penalties and damage to the site's reputation.

REFERENCES

• https://github.com/aeroot/WP-GDPR-Compliance-Plugin-Exploit