CVE-2024-13781 is an SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the Hero Maps Premium plugin for WordPress, present in all versions up to and including 2.3.9. The root cause is improper neutralization of special elements in SQL commands (CWE-89), specifically due to insufficient escaping of user-supplied parameters in several AJAX actions. This flaw allows authenticated users with as low as Subscriber-level access to inject additional SQL queries into existing database queries. The vulnerability arises because the plugin fails to properly prepare SQL statements or sanitize inputs before incorporating them into queries, enabling attackers to manipulate the database query logic. Exploitation does not require user interaction beyond authentication and can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information stored in the WordPress database, such as user data or configuration details. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.5 (medium), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, and privileges required but no user interaction. The vulnerability does not affect data integrity or availability, focusing primarily on confidentiality breaches. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the presence of this vulnerability in a popular WordPress plugin makes it a notable risk. The lack of an official patch at the time of reporting necessitates immediate mitigation efforts by administrators.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-13781 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information from the WordPress database. Attackers with Subscriber-level access can exploit this vulnerability to extract data such as user credentials, personal information, or site configuration details. While the vulnerability does not allow modification or deletion of data, the exposure of confidential information can lead to further attacks, including privilege escalation, phishing, or targeted exploitation of other vulnerabilities. Organizations running WordPress sites with Hero Maps Premium installed are at risk of data breaches, potentially affecting customer trust and regulatory compliance. Since the attack requires authentication, the risk is somewhat mitigated by access controls, but many WordPress sites allow user registrations or have multiple users with Subscriber or higher roles, increasing the attack surface. The vulnerability's network accessibility means attackers can exploit it remotely, increasing its threat level. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks.

1. Immediately restrict user roles and permissions to the minimum necessary, especially limiting Subscriber-level users from accessing AJAX actions related to Hero Maps Premium. 2. Monitor database query logs for unusual or suspicious SQL commands that may indicate exploitation attempts. 3. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block SQL Injection patterns targeting the plugin's AJAX endpoints. 4. Disable or remove the Hero Maps Premium plugin if it is not essential to reduce the attack surface. 5. Regularly back up WordPress databases and site files to enable recovery in case of compromise. 6. Stay alert for official patches or updates from Hero Plugins and apply them promptly once released. 7. Conduct security audits and penetration testing focusing on plugin vulnerabilities and user privilege management. 8. Educate site administrators and users about the risks of granting unnecessary privileges and the importance of secure plugin management.