#VU8813 Account hijacking in WordPress


Published: 2017-10-11 | Updated: 2018-10-17

Vulnerability identifier: #VU8813

Vulnerability risk: Low

CVSSv3.1: 5.9 [CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N/E:P/RL:O/RC:C]

CVE-ID: CVE-2017-14990

CWE-ID: CWE-264

Exploitation vector: Network

Exploit availability: No

Vulnerable software:
WordPress
Web applications / CMS

Vendor: WordPress.ORG

Description
The vulnerability allows a remote attacker to hijack user accounts.

The weakness exists due to the system stores 'wp_signups.activation_key' values in clear text. A remote attacker can gain access to 'wp_signups.activation_key' values and hijack user accounts that have not been activated.

Mitigation
Install update from vendor's website.

Vulnerable software versions

WordPress: 4.8.2


External links
http://core.trac.wordpress.org/ticket/38474


Q & A

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes. This vulnerability can be exploited by a remote non-authenticated attacker via the Internet.

Is there known malware, which exploits this vulnerability?

No. We are not aware of malware exploiting this vulnerability. However, proof of concept for this vulnerability is available.


Latest bulletins with this vulnerability