Learn about CVE-2023-0070, a Stored XSS flaw in ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin pre-1.7.7, enabling malicious script execution by contributors and above.
This CVE-2023-0070 advisory relates to a vulnerability found in the ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin. The issue, identified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw, allows users with the contributor role and above to execute malicious scripts.
Understanding CVE-2023-0070
This section will delve into what CVE-2023-0070 entails and its potential impact on affected systems.
What is CVE-2023-0070?
CVE-2023-0070 is a CVE identifier assigned to a specific security vulnerability present in the ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin versions prior to 1.7.7. The flaw arises from a lack of proper validation and escaping of certain shortcode attributes, enabling malicious users to inject and execute harmful scripts.
The Impact of CVE-2023-0070
The impact of this vulnerability could be significant, as it allows unauthorized users with specific roles to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. Exploitation of this issue could result in the compromise of sensitive data, unauthorized access, and potentially complete system takeover.
Technical Details of CVE-2023-0070
In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-0070, including a description of the vulnerability, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability in the ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin stems from the lack of validation and escaping of certain shortcode attributes. This oversight allows contributors and higher-role users to inject malicious scripts, leading to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.
Affected Systems and Versions
The impacted system is the ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin with versions earlier than 1.7.7. Users utilizing versions prior to this are vulnerable to exploitation if the plugin is not promptly updated.
Exploitation Mechanism
The exploitation of CVE-2023-0070 involves leveraging the lack of validation in shortcode attributes to embed and execute harmful scripts within pages or posts where the shortcode is utilized. Malicious contributors or higher-role users can employ this method to execute arbitrary code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard systems against the risks posed by CVE-2023-0070, immediate actions and long-term security practices need to be implemented. Patching and updates play a crucial role in mitigating this vulnerability.
Immediate Steps to Take
It is recommended to update the ResponsiveVoice Text To Speech WordPress plugin to version 1.7.7 or later to address the vulnerability and prevent exploitation. Additionally, monitoring user permissions and access levels can help mitigate the risk of unauthorized script injection.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implementing secure coding practices, conducting regular security audits, and educating users on the risks of XSS attacks can enhance the overall security posture of WordPress sites and plugins.
Patching and Updates
Regularly updating software and plugins to the latest versions is essential in addressing known vulnerabilities and strengthening security defenses. Ensuring timely patches are applied helps mitigate the risk of exploitation through identified security flaws.