CVE-2023-2608 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed insights into CVE-2023-2608, a vulnerability identified in the Multiple Page Generator Plugin for WordPress.

Understanding CVE-2023-2608

CVE-2023-2608 is a security vulnerability found in the Multiple Page Generator Plugin for WordPress. The flaw allows for Cross-Site Request Forgery leading to time-based SQL Injection in versions up to and including 3.3.17. This vulnerability arises due to missing nonce verification on the projects_list function and insufficient escaping on user-supplied parameters, providing an avenue for unauthenticated attackers to manipulate SQL queries and potentially exhaust server resources.

What is CVE-2023-2608?

The Multiple Page Generator Plugin for WordPress is susceptible to a Cross-Site Request Forgery issue that can lead to SQL Injection attacks. Attackers can exploit the orderby and order parameters in versions up to 3.3.17 by injecting additional SQL queries into existing ones, provided they can deceive an administrator into taking specific actions, such as clicking on a malicious link. The absence of proper nonce verification and insufficient SQL query preparation exacerbates the risk.

The Impact of CVE-2023-2608

This vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data, potential data corruption, and denial of service through resource exhaustion. Attackers could execute arbitrary SQL queries and potentially compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the WordPress site using the vulnerable plugin.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-2608

The vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism are discussed below:

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in the Multiple Page Generator Plugin allows attackers to perform Cross-Site Request Forgery and initiate time-based SQL Injection attacks by exploiting orderby and order parameters. The absence of proper nonce verification and inadequate SQL query escaping facilitates the injection of additional SQL queries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions of the Multiple Page Generator Plugin up to and including 3.3.17 are impacted by CVE-2023-2608. Version 3.3.18 has been released to address the SQL Injection vulnerability and mitigate the associated risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthenticated attackers can craft forged requests to manipulate SQL queries by tricking administrators into taking actions (e.g., clicking on a malicious link). This manipulation allows for the insertion of unauthorized SQL queries, potentially leading to resource exhaustion and unauthorized access to sensitive data.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-2608, consider the following mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Multiple Page Generator Plugin to version 3.3.18 or the latest available release to mitigate the SQL Injection vulnerability.
Educate administrators and users about the risks of clicking on unverified links or performing actions that may be exploited by attackers.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update WordPress plugins and themes to patch known vulnerabilities and enhance overall site security.
Implement security best practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly monitoring site logs for suspicious activities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by plugin developers to address known vulnerabilities and protect WordPress sites from exploitation. Regularly monitor security advisories and apply patches promptly to maintain the integrity of the site.