CVE-2024-12473 identifies a SQL Injection vulnerability in the AI Scribe – SEO AI Writer, Content Generator, Humanizer, Blog Writer, SEO Optimizer, DALLE-3, AI WordPress Plugin ChatGPT (GPT-4o 128K) developed by opacewebdesign. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 2.3 and is triggered via the 'template_id' parameter within the 'article_builder_generate_data' shortcode. The root cause is insufficient escaping and lack of proper parameterization in the SQL query construction, allowing an authenticated attacker with Contributor-level access or higher to append arbitrary SQL commands. This improper neutralization of special elements (CWE-89) enables attackers to extract sensitive information from the backend database, such as user credentials, configuration data, or other private content stored within the WordPress database. The attack vector is remote and does not require user interaction, but it does require authentication with at least Contributor privileges, which are commonly granted to content creators and editors. The vulnerability does not affect data integrity or availability, as it is a read-only SQL Injection, but the confidentiality impact is high. The CVSS v3.1 score of 6.5 reflects the network attack vector, low attack complexity, and required privileges. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the presence of this vulnerability in a popular WordPress plugin used for SEO and content generation makes it a notable risk for websites relying on this plugin for content automation.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-12473 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored in the WordPress database. Attackers with Contributor-level access can exploit this vulnerability to extract data such as user information, site configuration, or other confidential content, potentially leading to further attacks like privilege escalation or targeted phishing. Although the vulnerability does not allow modification or deletion of data, the exposure of sensitive information can compromise user privacy and organizational security. For organizations relying on this plugin for SEO and content generation, the breach of database confidentiality can damage reputation, lead to regulatory compliance issues (e.g., GDPR), and facilitate lateral movement within the network. Since WordPress powers a significant portion of websites globally, especially in content-driven industries, the scope of affected systems is broad. The requirement for authentication limits exploitation to insiders or compromised accounts, but Contributor roles are common and often less strictly monitored, increasing risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate future risk, especially as attackers may develop proof-of-concept exploits.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12473, organizations should first update the AI Scribe plugin to a patched version once released by opacewebdesign. Until a patch is available, administrators should restrict Contributor-level access strictly to trusted users and audit existing user roles to minimize exposure. Implementing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the 'template_id' parameter can provide interim protection. Additionally, applying the principle of least privilege by limiting plugin usage to only necessary users and disabling or removing the vulnerable shortcode if not in use can reduce attack surface. Regularly monitoring logs for unusual database queries or access patterns related to the plugin is recommended. Employing database-level protections such as query parameterization and enforcing strict database user permissions can also help contain potential exploitation. Finally, educating content creators and administrators about the risks of privilege misuse and maintaining strong authentication controls (e.g., MFA) will further reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation.