CVE-2023-0372 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This is a detailed overview of CVE-2023-0372, a vulnerability found in the EmbedStories WordPress plugin before version 0.7.5. The CVE was published on February 21, 2023, by WPScan.

Understanding CVE-2023-0372

CVE-2023-0372 pertains to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the EmbedStories WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions prior to 0.7.5. This vulnerability could potentially allow users with the contributor role and above to execute malicious scripts.

What is CVE-2023-0372?

The EmbedStories WordPress plugin version 0.7.5 and below fails to properly validate and escape certain shortcode attributes before displaying them on a page or post. This oversight opens up the possibility for attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts through Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0372

In the context of this vulnerability, users with elevated roles such as contributors or higher could exploit the plugin to conduct attacks that compromise the security and integrity of the WordPress site where the vulnerable version of EmbedStories is installed.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0372

This section outlines the technical aspects of the CVE-2023-0372 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The root cause of CVE-2023-0372 lies in the failure of the EmbedStories WordPress plugin to properly validate and escape certain shortcode attributes, making it susceptible to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the EmbedStories WordPress plugin versions earlier than 0.7.5. Websites using versions equal to or below 0.7.5 are at risk of exploitation if users with contributor privileges or higher are involved.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the lack of validation and escaping of shortcode attributes in the vulnerable EmbedStories plugin, malicious users with contributor roles and above can craft and execute scripts to launch a Stored Cross-Site Scripting attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your WordPress website from CVE-2023-0372 and similar vulnerabilities, certain mitigation steps and best practices are recommended.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the EmbedStories plugin to version 0.7.5 or above to mitigate the vulnerability.
Restrict contributor-level permissions to reduce the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update WordPress plugins and themes to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address potential vulnerabilities proactively.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories related to WordPress plugins and promptly apply patches or updates released by plugin developers to protect your website from known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0372.