CVE-2023-0660 : What You Need to Know

This article covers the details of CVE-2023-0660, a vulnerability identified in the Smart Slider 3 WordPress plugin.

Understanding CVE-2023-0660

CVE-2023-0660, titled "Smart Slider 3 < 3.5.1.14 - Contributor+ Stored XSS," is a security issue that affects the Smart Slider 3 WordPress plugin version prior to 3.5.1.14. The vulnerability falls under CWE-79 Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) category.

What is CVE-2023-0660?

The Smart Slider 3 WordPress plugin before version 3.5.1.14 lacks proper validation and escaping of certain shortcode attributes. This oversight could allow users with the contributor role and above to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. In simpler terms, malicious users could inject harmful scripts into web pages or posts where the plugin's shortcode is utilized, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0660

As a result of this vulnerability, malicious contributors or higher-level users could exploit the plugin to execute harmful scripts on a website, compromising its security and potentially affecting visitors. The stored XSS attacks could enable attackers to manipulate content, steal sensitive information, or perform other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0660

The following technical aspects provide more insight into CVE-2023-0660:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability lies in the Smart Slider 3 plugin's failure to adequately validate and escape specific shortcode attributes. This oversight enables contributors and higher-level users to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: Unknown
Product: Smart Slider 3
Affected Versions: Versions prior to 3.5.1.14
Version Type: Custom
Affected Status: Yes

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting this vulnerability, users with the contributor role and above can inject malicious scripts through the plugin's shortcode attributes, leading to potential stored XSS attacks on the website.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2023-0660 involves taking specific measures to mitigate the risk and prevent exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Smart Slider 3 plugin to version 3.5.1.14 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor website activities for any signs of unauthorized script injections or suspicious behavior.
Restrict contributor and higher-level user access to critical functionalities to minimize the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address any security gaps proactively.
Educate website administrators and users on best practices for secure coding and content management to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches provided by the Smart Slider 3 plugin developers.
Promptly apply updates to ensure the latest security fixes are in place and protect the website from known vulnerabilities.