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CVE-2023-38000 : What You Need to Know

Learn about CVE-2023-38000, an Auth. Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting WordPress core and the Gutenberg plugin. Find out the impact, affected versions, and mitigation steps.

A detailed analysis of the Auth. Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in WordPress core and Gutenberg plugin via Navigation Links Block.

Understanding CVE-2023-38000

This section covers the vulnerability description, impact, technical details, and mitigation steps for CVE-2023-38000.

What is CVE-2023-38000?

The CVE-2023-38000 vulnerability is an Auth. Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue affecting WordPress core and the Gutenberg plugin, specifically through the Navigation Links Block feature. Attackers with contributor-level access can inject malicious scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized actions.

The Impact of CVE-2023-38000

The vulnerability poses a medium risk with a CVSS base score of 6.5. Attackers can exploit this issue to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser, compromising data confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The common weakness enumeration (CWE-79) highlights the improper neutralization of input during web page generation.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-38000

Vulnerability Description

The Auth. Stored XSS vulnerability affects WordPress core versions 6.0 to 6.3.1 and Gutenberg plugin versions up to 16.8.0. It allows contributors to inject malicious scripts via the Navigation Links Block, requiring user interaction to execute the payload.

Affected Systems and Versions

        WordPress core: 6.0 to 6.3.1
        Gutenberg plugin: <= 16.8.0

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with contributor-level privileges can leverage the vulnerability by inserting crafted scripts in the Navigation Links Block. When an authenticated user interacts with the link, the malicious payload gets executed, leading to XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems against CVE-2023-38000, immediate actions and long-term security practices are necessary.

Immediate Steps to Take

        Update WordPress core to versions 6.3.2, 6.2.3, 6.1.4, 6.0.6, 5.9.8, or newer.
        Update Gutenberg to version 16.8.1 or higher.

Long-Term Security Practices

Besides updating to secure versions, implement robust security measures, regularly audit user privileges, and educate contributors about secure coding practices.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and promptly apply updates to WordPress core and the Gutenberg plugin to mitigate potential risks.

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