CVE-2023-0064 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE record pertains to a security vulnerability identified in the eVision Responsive Column Layout Shortcodes WordPress plugin, specifically version 2.3 or lower. The vulnerability allows users with the contributor role and above to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2023-0064

This section will delve into the details of CVE-2023-0064, including the vulnerability description, impact, affected systems and versions, as well as mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-0064?

CVE-2023-0064 involves a lack of validation and escaping of some shortcode attributes in the eVision Responsive Column Layout Shortcodes WordPress plugin. This oversight enables users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks on affected websites.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0064

In the context of this vulnerability, unauthorized users can inject malicious scripts into web pages, leading to potential security breaches, data theft, and compromise of user information. This can ultimately harm the integrity and confidentiality of the affected websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0064

This section will provide a deeper insight into the technical aspects of the CVE, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the plugin's failure to properly validate and escape certain shortcode attributes. This omission enables malicious actors to insert harmful scripts into the content of web pages, posing a significant risk to website security.

Affected Systems and Versions

The eVision Responsive Column Layout Shortcodes plugin versions up to and including 2.3 are impacted by this vulnerability. Websites utilizing these versions are susceptible to exploitation by users with contributor privileges or higher.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the lack of input validation in the plugin, attackers can craft specially designed payloads containing malicious scripts. These payloads can be injected into vulnerable web pages, where they are executed in the context of unsuspecting users, leading to Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard against the risks posed by CVE-2023-0064, website administrators and users are advised to take immediate and proactive measures to mitigate the threat.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update: Ensure that the eVision Responsive Column Layout Shortcodes plugin is updated to the latest secure version that addresses the vulnerability.
Monitoring: Regularly monitor web pages for any suspicious activities or unauthorized script injections.
Access Control: Limit user roles and privileges to reduce the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Input Sanitization: Implement strict input validation and output escaping practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Security Audits: Conduct periodic security audits to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities in plugins and themes.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by plugin developers. Promptly apply any available patches to ensure that your website is protected against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0064.