CVE-2023-0368 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-0368 pertains to a vulnerability in the Responsive Tabs For WPBakery Page Builder WordPress plugin, allowing users with the contributor role and above to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2023-0368

This section provides an overview of what CVE-2023-0368 is, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-0368?

CVE-2023-0368 is a vulnerability found in the Responsive Tabs For WPBakery Page Builder (formerly Visual Composer) WordPress plugin version 1.1 and below. The flaw originates from the plugin's failure to validate and escape certain shortcode attributes, potentially enabling malicious users to conduct Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0368

As a result of this vulnerability, users with contributor-level access or higher could inject malicious scripts into pages or posts created using the affected plugin. This poses a significant risk as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of an unsuspecting user's browser session, leading to various security implications.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0368

In this section, we delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-0368, including vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Responsive Tabs For WPBakery Page Builder plugin version 1.1 and below stems from the lack of proper validation and escaping of certain shortcode attributes. This oversight enables unauthorized users to insert malicious scripts that get executed when the affected page or post is viewed.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system includes the Responsive Tabs For WPBakery Page Builder plugin (formerly Visual Composer) with versions up to 1.1. Users utilizing versions within this range are at risk of exploitation if proper mitigation measures are not implemented.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the vulnerability within the plugin, attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can inject malicious scripts via crafted shortcodes. When unsuspecting users access the compromised page or post, these scripts get executed in their browser, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the necessary steps to mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2023-0368 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the Responsive Tabs For WPBakery Page Builder plugin to a secure version that includes a patch for the vulnerability. Additionally, limiting access permissions to trusted individuals can help reduce the likelihood of malicious exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regularly monitoring for vulnerabilities, and staying informed about security updates within the WordPress plugin ecosystem are essential for maintaining a robust security posture and preventing similar incidents in the future.

Patching and Updates

Staying proactive with plugin updates and security patches is crucial. Users should regularly check for updates from the plugin developer and apply patches promptly to ensure their systems are protected against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0368.