CVE-2023-0172 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This CVE, assigned by WPScan, involves a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Juicer WordPress plugin version prior to 1.11. This vulnerability could be exploited by users with the contributor role and above to execute malicious scripts.

Understanding CVE-2023-0172

The vulnerability identified in CVE-2023-0172 lies in the Juicer WordPress plugin, specifically versions before 1.11, allowing for a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attack.

What is CVE-2023-0172?

The CVE-2023-0172 vulnerability pertains to the Juicer WordPress plugin, where inadequate validation and escaping of shortcode attributes enable users with contributor-level access and above to carry out Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0172

With this vulnerability, attackers can inject malicious scripts into a webpage containing the affected shortcode, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, defacement, or other forms of compromise on the targeted website.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0172

The following technical details outline the specifics of CVE-2023-0172:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the Juicer WordPress plugin failing to properly validate and escape certain shortcode attributes before displaying them on a page or post, enabling contributors and higher roles to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue impacts the Juicer plugin versions earlier than 1.11, particularly when used to embed, curate, and aggregate social media feeds on a WordPress website.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires users with contributor privileges or above to input malicious code in the affected shortcode, which, when rendered on the site, executes the stored XSS attack.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address and prevent CVE-2023-0172, consider the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Juicer plugin to version 1.11 or later to patch the XSS vulnerability.
Educate users on the importance of validating and sanitizing input to prevent XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all plugins, themes, and WordPress core to address security flaws promptly.
Implement web application firewalls (WAFs) and security plugins to enhance website defenses against XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories from plugin developers and security researchers to promptly apply patches and updates that address known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0172.