CVE-2023-0958 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-0958 affects several WordPress plugins by Inisev, making them vulnerable to unauthorized plugin installations due to missing capability checks. Authenticated attackers with minimal permissions, such as subscribers, could exploit this vulnerability to install select plugins from Inisev on vulnerable sites.

Understanding CVE-2023-0958

This section delves into the details of CVE-2023-0958, its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-0958?

CVE-2023-0958 is a vulnerability that enables authenticated attackers with minimal permissions to install specific plugins from Inisev on affected websites. This issue arises from a missing capability check on the handle_installation function called via the inisev_installation AJAX action in various versions of the plugins.

The Impact of CVE-2023-0958

The impact of CVE-2023-0958 is significant as it allows attackers with limited privileges to compromise the integrity and security of WordPress sites by installing unauthorized plugins without proper authorization.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-0958

This section provides insights into the technical aspects of the vulnerability, including its description, affected systems, versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Inisev plugins arises from a missing capability check, allowing attackers with minimal permissions to carry out unauthorized plugin installations on affected WordPress sites.

Affected Systems and Versions

Several plugins by Inisev are impacted by CVE-2023-0958, including SSL Mixed Content Fix, Duplicate Post, Social Share Icons & Social Share Buttons, and others. The versions affected vary but are less than or equal to specific versions outlined for each product.

Exploitation Mechanism

Authenticated attackers, even with low-level permissions like subscribers, can exploit this vulnerability by executing the handle_installation function through the inisev_installation AJAX action in affected versions of the Inisev plugins.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-0958 and mitigate its risks, immediate steps should be taken, and long-term security practices should be implemented alongside patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update all affected Inisev plugins to the latest secure versions.
Restrict plugin installation capabilities to trusted users with appropriate permissions.
Conduct a security audit of WordPress sites to identify any unauthorized plugin installations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for plugin vulnerabilities and updates.
Implement least privilege access controls to prevent unauthorized actions.
Educate users on safe plugin installation practices to avoid security risks.

Patching and Updates

Inisev has likely released patches or updates to address the vulnerability. It is crucial to promptly apply these updates to secure WordPress sites against CVE-2023-0958.

Chloe Chamberland discovered this vulnerability in early 2023, and it was successfully disclosed after notifying the vendor about the issue.