CVE-2024-33551: 8theme XStore Core SQL Injection Flaw

CVE-2024-33551 Overview

Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in 8theme XStore Core allows SQL Injection. This issue affects XStore Core from versions that are atypically specified as from n/a through 5.3.5.

Critical Impact
An unauthenticated attacker could exploit this vulnerability remotely to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially gaining full database access, leading to data breaches and system compromise.

Affected Products

8theme xstore_core

Discovery Timeline

2024-04-29 - CVE CVE-2024-33551 published to NVD
2025-02-21 - Last updated in NVD database

Technical Details for CVE-2024-33551

Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability is due to improper neutralization of special elements that are used in SQL commands within the 8theme XStore Core WordPress plugin. This lack of input validation allows attackers to inject arbitrary SQL commands by manipulating input data.

Root Cause

The root cause of this vulnerability is insufficient input sanitization in the plugin, particularly where user inputs are directly used in constructing SQL queries.

Attack Vector

This is a network-based attack vector. An attacker can craft a malicious HTTP request to submit harmful SQL commands to the backend database via the vulnerable application.

sql

-- Example exploitation code (sanitized)
SELECT * FROM users WHERE username = '' OR '1'='1';

Detection Methods for CVE-2024-33551

Indicators of Compromise

Unusual entries in server logs showing anomalous queries
Unexpected behavior or crashes in database services
Unauthorized access to data or database objects

Detection Strategies

Monitoring for unexpected SQL queries generated by the application can help identify potential exploitation attempts. Database logs should be regularly reviewed for signs of SQL injection, such as tautological queries or UNION SQL statements.

Monitoring Recommendations

Utilize web application firewalls (WAFs) to monitor and block SQL injection attempts. Additionally, employ intrusion detection systems (IDS) and intrusion prevention systems (IPS) for network-based detection.

How to Mitigate CVE-2024-33551

Immediate Actions Required

Disable or remove the vulnerable plugin if possible
Employ WAF rules to block SQL injection payloads
Audit database permissions and restrict access

Patch Information

As the patch release date is not provided, users should frequently check for updates from the vendor and apply patches as soon as they become available. Refer to the vendor website for official patch information.

Workarounds

Implement input validation and escaping mechanisms to ensure that input data is sanitized before being included in SQL queries. Additionally, use prepared statements and parameterized queries whenever possible to enhance security.

bash

# Configuration example
sed -i '/xstore_core/s/^/#/g' /etc/apache2/conf.d/plugins.conf
sudo service apache2 restart