CVE-2023-0708 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record details a vulnerability found in the Metform Elementor Contact Form Builder plugin for WordPress, allowing for a Cross-Site Scripting attack. The vulnerability exists in versions up to and including 3.3.0, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary web scripts using a specific shortcode.

Understanding CVE-2023-0708

This section will delve into the nature of the CVE-2023-0708 vulnerability, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-0708?

The CVE-2023-0708 vulnerability involves the Metform Elementor Contact Form Builder plugin for WordPress, where an attacker can perform Cross-Site Scripting by exploiting a shortcode feature. The vulnerability allows for the injection of malicious scripts into web pages when a victim visits a page containing the vulnerable shortcode.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0708

As a Medium severity vulnerability with a CVSS base score of 5.4, CVE-2023-0708 poses a risk to websites using the affected plugin. Attackers can execute arbitrary scripts within the context of a user's session, potentially leading to various malicious actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0708

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-0708, including the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the insecure handling of form submissions using the 'mf_first_name' shortcode. This flaw allows attackers to insert and execute malicious scripts within the context of the affected web pages.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerable plugin versions include all releases up to and including 3.3.0 of the Metform Elementor Contact Form Builder for WordPress. Websites running these versions are at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2023-0708, an authenticated attacker with contributor-level privileges or higher must craft a malicious link containing the form entry ID. When a victim visits a page with the crafted link, the injected script executes from the site's database, requiring user interaction for successful exploitation.

Mitigation and Prevention

Understanding how to mitigate and prevent CVE-2023-0708 is crucial for maintaining the security of WordPress websites using the vulnerable plugin.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to update the Metform Elementor Contact Form Builder plugin to a secure version beyond 3.3.0. Additionally, monitoring for any signs of malicious activity and restricting user permissions can help prevent exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, regular security audits, and educating users about safe browsing habits can enhance the long-term security posture of WordPress websites, reducing the risk of similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Staying vigilant for plugin updates and promptly applying patches released by the plugin developer is vital to address security vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-0708. Regularly checking for security advisories and maintaining an up-to-date software stack can help mitigate risks associated with known vulnerabilities.