CVE-2023-25488 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-25488 relates to a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in the WP Default Feature Image plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting versions up to and including 1.0.1.1. The vulnerability has been assigned a base score of 5.9, indicating a medium severity level.

Understanding CVE-2023-25488

This section provides insight into the nature of the CVE-2023-25488 vulnerability, its impacts, technical details, affected systems, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-25488?

The CVE-2023-25488 vulnerability involves an Authenticated Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue in the Duc Bui Quang WP Default Feature Image plugin, allowing attackers with admin or higher privileges to execute malicious scripts within the context of a target user's session.

The Impact of CVE-2023-25488

The impact of CVE-2023-25488 is categorized under CAPEC-592 Stored XSS, indicating the potential exploitation of this vulnerability to execute arbitrary script code in a victim's browser.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-25488

Understanding the technical aspects of CVE-2023-25488 is crucial for assessing the risk posed by the vulnerability and implementing appropriate security measures.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from an improper neutralization of user-supplied input during the generation of web pages, leading to the injection of malicious scripts in the WP Default Feature Image plugin.

Affected Systems and Versions

The WP Default Feature Image plugin versions up to and including 1.0.1.1 are susceptible to the Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, potentially impacting WordPress installations that utilize this plugin.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with admin or higher privileges can exploit this vulnerability by injecting specially crafted scripts into input fields provided by the WP Default Feature Image plugin, which are then executed in the context of other users visiting the affected site.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps to mitigate the CVE-2023-25488 vulnerability is essential to prevent potential exploitation and safeguard the integrity of WordPress installations.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users should update the WP Default Feature Image plugin to a secure version that addresses the XSS vulnerability.
Administrators are advised to restrict access to sensitive functionality and implement proper input validation measures.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor for security updates and patches related to third-party plugins, such as WP Default Feature Image, to address potential vulnerabilities promptly.
Conduct security audits and assessments to identify and remediate XSS vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins and themes.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all software components, including plugins, themes, and the WordPress core, are kept up-to-date to mitigate the risk of XSS vulnerabilities and enhance overall system security.