CVE-2024-1317 is a critical SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the 'RSS Aggregator by Feedzy – Feed to Post, Autoblogging, News & YouTube Video Feeds Aggregator' WordPress plugin, versions up to and including 4.4.2. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands (CWE-89), specifically due to insufficient escaping and lack of prepared statements for the 'search_key' parameter. This parameter is user-supplied and can be manipulated by authenticated users with contributor or higher privileges. By injecting crafted SQL payloads, attackers can append additional queries to the existing SQL commands executed by the plugin, enabling extraction of sensitive data from the underlying database. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond authentication, and the attack vector is network-based, making remote exploitation feasible. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with low attack complexity and privileges required. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress and this plugin make it a significant threat. The plugin’s role in aggregating feeds and posting content means that compromised data could include user information, site content, and potentially administrative credentials if the database is accessed. The absence of a patch link suggests that users must monitor vendor updates closely or implement workarounds. This vulnerability underscores the importance of secure coding practices such as parameterized queries and rigorous input validation in WordPress plugins.

The impact of CVE-2024-1317 is substantial for organizations using the affected plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive database contents, including user data, site content, and potentially administrative credentials. This compromises confidentiality and integrity, and may also disrupt availability if attackers manipulate or delete data. Since the vulnerability requires only contributor-level authentication, it lowers the barrier for exploitation from internal or compromised accounts. Attackers could leverage this flaw to escalate privileges, conduct further attacks, or exfiltrate data for espionage or financial gain. For websites relying on this plugin for content aggregation and autoblogging, the integrity of published content could be undermined, damaging reputation and trust. The vulnerability also increases the risk of compliance violations under data protection regulations due to potential data breaches. Given WordPress’s global popularity, the threat extends to a wide range of sectors including media, e-commerce, education, and government, amplifying the potential scale of impact.

To mitigate CVE-2024-1317, organizations should immediately update the RSS Aggregator by Feedzy plugin to a patched version once available. Until a patch is released, restrict contributor and higher privileges to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of exploitation. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious SQL injection patterns targeting the 'search_key' parameter. Conduct thorough code reviews and apply manual input sanitization or parameterization if feasible. Monitor logs for unusual database queries or access patterns indicative of injection attempts. Consider disabling or replacing the plugin with a more secure alternative if immediate patching is not possible. Regularly back up databases and website content to enable recovery in case of compromise. Educate site administrators about the risks of granting elevated privileges and encourage the principle of least privilege. Finally, maintain an active vulnerability management program to promptly address similar issues in third-party components.