CVE-2023-2143 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-2143, focusing on the Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload plugin vulnerability affecting WordPress sites.

Understanding CVE-2023-2143

CVE-2023-2143, known as "Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload <= 1.0.3 - Author+ Stored XSS," is a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in the Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload WordPress plugin version 1.0.3 and below.

What is CVE-2023-2143?

The CVE-2023-2143 vulnerability arises from the plugin's failure to sanitize SVG file contents properly, enabling malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary script codes within the plugin's functionality.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2143

This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to execute harmful scripts, steal sensitive information, modify website content, or perform other malicious actions through the compromised plugin on vulnerable WordPress sites. It poses a significant risk to website security and user data integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2143

In this section, we delve into the specific technical aspects of the CVE-2023-2143 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload plugin versions up to 1.0.3 lack proper sanitization of SVG file contents, opening the door for Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks where malicious scripts can be injected and executed on the victim's browser.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects websites utilizing the Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload plugin version 1.0.3 and earlier. Organizations and individuals using these versions are at risk of exploitation if not mitigated promptly.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-2143 involves leveraging the unsanitized SVG file upload functionality of the plugin to inject and execute malicious scripts. Attackers can craft specifically designed SVG files to initiate XSS attacks on vulnerable sites.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting your WordPress site from CVE-2023-2143 requires immediate action and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload plugin to the latest patched version to mitigate the vulnerability.
Consider temporarily disabling the plugin if an update is not immediately available to prevent potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Implement a web application firewall (WAF) to filter and block malicious traffic targeting vulnerabilities like XSS.
Conduct security audits and vulnerability scans periodically to identify and address potential security gaps proactively.

Patching and Updates

Visit the official WordPress plugin repository at wordpress.org/plugins to access the latest version of Enable SVG, WebP & ICO Upload with the necessary security fixes. Stay informed about security advisories and update notifications to maintain a secure WordPress environment.