CVE-2023-0720 : What You Need to Know

This CVE was issued by Wordfence for the Wicked Folders plugin for WordPress due to an authorization bypass vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.18.16. Attackers with subscriber-level permissions or higher can exploit this vulnerability to perform actions intended for administrators.

Understanding CVE-2023-0720

This section will delve into the specifics of CVE-2023-0720, including the vulnerability description, impact, affected systems, and mitigation techniques.

What is CVE-2023-0720?

CVE-2023-0720 pertains to a missing capability check on the ajax_save_folder_order function in the Wicked Folders plugin for WordPress. This flaw enables authenticated attackers to perform administrative actions.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0720

The impact of this vulnerability is significant as it allows attackers with lower-level permissions to execute tasks intended for administrators, potentially compromising the integrity and security of the WordPress site.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0720

In this section, we'll explore the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a missing capability check on a specific function within the Wicked Folders plugin, enabling unauthorized users to perform administrative actions.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Wicked Folders plugin versions up to and including 2.18.16 are susceptible to this authorization bypass vulnerability, exposing WordPress sites to potential exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Authenticated attackers with subscriber-level permissions or higher can exploit the vulnerability by invoking the ajax_save_folder_order function, thereby gaining unauthorized access to administrative functions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-0720, it's crucial to implement immediate steps to mitigate the risk and adopt long-term security practices to safeguard against similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Wicked Folders plugin to a patched version that addresses the authorization bypass vulnerability.
Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential exploitation.
Monitor for any unusual activities that may indicate a compromise.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins, themes, and WordPress core to stay protected against known vulnerabilities.
Conduct security audits and scans to identify and remediate any security weaknesses proactively.
Educate users on best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates released by plugin developers to address vulnerabilities like the one identified in CVE-2023-0720. Regularly check for new updates and apply them promptly to reduce the risk of exploitation.