CVE-2023-0159 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

This CVE involves the Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin before version 1.9.1, where an unauthenticated attacker could exploit a vulnerability to perform Remote Code Execution (RCE) attacks.

Understanding CVE-2023-0159

This section will cover what CVE-2023-0159 entails, its impacts, technical details, and mitigation steps.

What is CVE-2023-0159?

CVE-2023-0159 pertains to a security flaw in the Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin. Specifically, the plugin fails to properly validate a parameter within the php extract function when loading templates. This oversight enables an unauthenticated attacker to manipulate the template path, potentially leading to the unauthorized extraction of sensitive files from the host's file system. Moreover, this vulnerability could be further exploited to achieve Remote Code Execution (RCE) through PHP filter chains.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0159

The impact of this vulnerability lies in the hands of malicious actors who can exploit it to execute arbitrary code on the affected system. This unauthorized code execution could result in various security risks, including data breaches, system compromise, and unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0159

In this section, we will delve into the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin version prior to 1.9.1 lacks proper validation of a parameter passed to the php extract function when loading templates. This oversight allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate the template path, potentially leading to the extraction of arbitrary files from the host's file system.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacts the Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin versions below 1.9.1. Users utilizing versions prior to this are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the vulnerability in the Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin, threat actors can abuse the php extract function to perform unauthorized template path manipulations. This manipulation can be escalated to Remote Code Execution (RCE) by chaining PHP filters, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary code on the target system.

Mitigation and Prevention

In this section, we will discuss the immediate steps to take, long-term security practices, and the importance of patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

If you are using Extensive VC Addons for WPBakery page builder WordPress plugin version 1.9.1 or lower, it is crucial to update to the latest version immediately. Additionally, consider restricting access to the vulnerable plugin until the patch is applied.

Long-Term Security Practices

To enhance the security posture of your WordPress environment, it is recommended to regularly update plugins and themes, implement robust access controls, conduct security audits, and stay informed about potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that you frequently check for security updates and patches provided by plugin developers. Applying patches promptly helps in mitigating the risk of exploitation and secures your WordPress site from potential threats associated with CVE-2023-0159.