CVE-2023-6504 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This article delves into the details of CVE-2023-6504, a vulnerability identified in the User Profile Builder plugin for WordPress.

Understanding CVE-2023-6504

CVE-2023-6504 highlights a crucial security flaw in the User Profile Builder plugin for WordPress, exposing user data to unauthorized access due to a missing capability check. This vulnerability impacts versions up to and including 3.10.7 of the plugin.

What is CVE-2023-6504?

The User Profile Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized data access, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to view sensitive information within user metadata.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6504

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-6504 poses a medium-level threat (base score: 4.3) according to the CVSS v3.1 metrics. It allows attackers to bypass authorization controls, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive user data.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6504

The following technical aspects shed light on the specifics of CVE-2023-6504:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from a missing capability check on the

wppb_toolbox_usermeta_handler

function within the User Profile Builder plugin.

Affected Systems and Versions

The User Profile Builder plugin versions up to and including 3.10.7 are affected by CVE-2023-6504. Users of these versions are at risk of unauthorized data access.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with contributor-level access or higher can exploit this vulnerability to extract sensitive user information stored in metadata.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-6504, consider the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the User Profile Builder plugin to version 3.10.8 or above to address the vulnerability.
Monitor user access and activity within the plugin for any suspicious behavior.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review user permissions and access levels to ensure the principle of least privilege.
Educate users about the importance of strong passwords and secure authentication practices.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the plugin developer. Promptly apply any available patches to secure your system against potential vulnerabilities.

By understanding the implications of CVE-2023-6504 and implementing necessary security measures, users can safeguard their systems and data from potential exploitation.