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CVE-2023-5691 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

Learn about CVE-2023-5691 affecting Collect.chat Chatbot Plugin for WordPress 2.3.9. Attackers could execute malicious scripts with elevated privileges.

This CVE record was assigned by Wordfence on October 20, 2023, and was published on January 11, 2024. The vulnerability affects the Collect.chat Chatbot Plugin for WordPress, specifically version 2.3.9. It is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability.

Understanding CVE-2023-5691

This section will provide insight into the nature of CVE-2023-5691 and its impact on systems.

What is CVE-2023-5691?

CVE-2023-5691 is a vulnerability found in the Chatbot for WordPress plugin, allowing authenticated attackers with administrator-level permissions to inject malicious web scripts into pages. This could result in the execution of arbitrary scripts when a user accesses an affected page. The vulnerability specifically arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the admin settings of version 2.3.9.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5691

The impact of this vulnerability is significant, as it can be exploited by attackers to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks on multi-site installations and instances where unfiltered_html has been disabled. This could lead to unauthorized script execution with elevated privileges.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5691

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-5691 to better understand its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Collect.chat Chatbot Plugin for WordPress arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the admin settings of version 2.3.9, enabling authenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is the Collect.chat Chatbot Plugin for WordPress version 2.3.9. It specifically impacts multi-site installations and setups where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with administrator-level permissions can exploit the vulnerability by injecting malicious web scripts into pages through the admin settings. Upon user access to an affected page, the injected scripts may execute without authorization.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-5691, immediate actions should be taken, followed by the implementation of long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

        Update the Chatbot for WordPress plugin to a patched version that resolves the vulnerability.
        Monitor for any unauthorized script execution or unusual activities on the affected pages.
        Consider restricting admin permissions and reviewing input sanitization measures.

Long-Term Security Practices

        Regularly update all installed plugins and software to the latest secure versions.
        Implement thorough input validation and output escaping mechanisms to prevent Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities.
        Educate administrators and users about the risks of executing unauthorized scripts on web pages.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by the plugin vendor to address vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-5691. Regularly check for security advisories and apply necessary patches.

By promptly addressing CVE-2023-5691 and adopting robust security practices, organizations can safeguard their WordPress installations against potential exploits related to Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities.

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