CVE-2023-0067 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE entry pertains to a vulnerability in the Timed Content WordPress plugin before version 2.73 that could potentially lead to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks by users with the contributor role and above.

Understanding CVE-2023-0067

This section delves into the specifics of the CVE-2023-0067 vulnerability in the Timed Content WordPress plugin.

What is CVE-2023-0067?

CVE-2023-0067 is a vulnerability found in the Timed Content WordPress plugin versions earlier than 2.73. The issue arises due to inadequate validation and escaping of certain shortcode attributes before displaying them on a page or post embedding the shortcode. This flaw could be exploited by users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0067

The impact of CVE-2023-0067 is significant as it enables unauthorized users to inject malicious scripts into the plugin's output, potentially leading to the compromise of sensitive user data or unauthorized actions within the affected WordPress websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0067

This section provides more technical insights into the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Timed Content WordPress plugin arises from the lack of proper validation and escaping of shortcode attributes, allowing malicious users to insert harmful scripts that execute when the affected shortcode is rendered on a page or post.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Timed Content WordPress plugin versions prior to 2.73 are affected by CVE-2023-0067. Users utilizing versions older than 2.73 should take immediate action to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

With CVE-2023-0067, attackers with contributor-level access or higher can exploit the lack of input validation in the Timed Content plugin to insert malicious scripts via shortcode attributes, triggering Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks upon rendering.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of CVE-2023-0067, taking proactive measures to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability is crucial for ensuring the security of WordPress websites utilizing the Timed Content plugin.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to upgrade the Timed Content plugin to version 2.73 or newer to address the vulnerability and eliminate the risk of Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. Additionally, monitoring for any unauthorized activity or malicious scripts on WordPress sites is recommended.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and staying informed about plugin updates and security patches are essential components of maintaining a robust security posture and safeguarding against potential vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0067.

Patching and Updates

Keeping all plugins and software up to date with the latest security patches is imperative for mitigating the risk of known vulnerabilities. Regularly checking for updates to the Timed Content plugin and promptly applying them can help prevent exploitation of CVE-2023-0067 and similar security issues.