CVE-2022-36341 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affects the AS – Create Pinterest Pinboard Pages WordPress plugin version 1.0 or below, developed by Akash Soni. This authenticated vulnerability allows malicious actors to manipulate plugin settings, potentially leading to script injection.

Understanding CVE-2022-36341

This CVE identifies a security issue in the Akash Soni WordPress plugin, AS – Create Pinterest Pinboard Pages, that can be exploited by authenticated users to execute XSS attacks.

What is CVE-2022-36341?

The vulnerability in the AS – Create Pinterest Pinboard Pages plugin version 1.0 or below permits authenticated users to modify plugin settings, opening the door to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2022-36341

With a CVSS base score of 5.4 (Medium Severity), this XSS flaw could compromise the integrity and confidentiality of the affected system. Although user interaction is required, the attack vector is through the network, posing a threat to subscriber+ users.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-36341

This section delves into the specific details of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated users to modify plugin settings, potentially injecting malicious scripts that could compromise the security of the WordPress site.

Affected Systems and Versions

AS – Create Pinterest Pinboard Pages plugin version 1.0 or below by Akash Soni is susceptible to this stored XSS vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the flaw in the plugin, attackers with subscriber+ access can tamper with the settings to inject and execute malicious scripts within the context of the WordPress site.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-36341, immediate steps should be taken along with long-term security practices and timely patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade the AS – Create Pinterest Pinboard Pages plugin to a secure version above 1.0.
Monitor user permissions and access levels to prevent unauthorized changes to plugin settings.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review plugins for security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on best practices for maintaining strong account credentials to prevent unauthorized access.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin developer. Implement these updates promptly to protect against known vulnerabilities.