CVE-2023-3411 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-3411 involves a vulnerability in the Image Map Pro – Drag-and-drop Builder for Interactive Images – Lite plugin for WordPress, allowing unauthorized remote attackers to execute Cross-Site Request Forgery attacks on affected versions up to and including 1.0.0.

Understanding CVE-2023-3411

This section will delve into the details regarding CVE-2023-3411, including its description, impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-3411?

CVE-2023-3411 refers to a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability found in the Image Map Pro – Lite plugin for WordPress, which can be exploited by attackers to manipulate plugin settings and insert malicious scripts through a forged request.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3411

The vulnerability in the Image Map Pro – Lite plugin up to version 1.0.0 poses a medium-level security risk, with a base severity score of 6.1 (Medium) according to the CVSSv3.1 scoring system. This flaw enables unauthenticated attackers to carry out CSRF attacks, potentially compromising the integrity and security of websites utilizing the affected plugin.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3411

This section will delve into the specific technical aspects of CVE-2023-3411, outlining the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Image Map Pro – Lite plugin arises from the lack of nonce validation within the ajax_store_save() function, allowing malicious actors to exploit Cross-Site Request Forgery to manipulate plugin settings and inject harmful scripts into affected WordPress websites.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Image Map Pro – Lite plugin versions up to and including 1.0.0 are susceptible to the CVE-2023-3411 vulnerability, leaving websites that utilize these versions exposed to potential CSRF attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the absence of proper nonce validation on the ajax_store_save() function, attackers can craft forged requests that trick site administrators into inadvertently executing unauthorized actions, such as modifying plugin settings and injecting malicious scripts.

Mitigation and Prevention

In light of CVE-2023-3411, it is crucial for website administrators and developers to undertake immediate steps to secure their WordPress installations and mitigate the risks associated with the Image Map Pro – Lite plugin vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to update the Image Map Pro – Lite plugin to a secure version that addresses the CSRF vulnerability and to implement measures such as enforcing proper nonce validation and conducting thorough security assessments.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing robust security practices, including regular security audits, staying informed about plugin vulnerabilities, and practicing secure coding techniques, can help mitigate the risks of potential CSRF vulnerabilities within WordPress plugins.

Patching and Updates

Ensuring that plugins, themes, and core WordPress installations are promptly updated to the latest secure versions is paramount in maintaining a secure website environment and safeguarding against known security vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-3411.