CVE-2023-35916 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

WordPress WooCommerce Payments Plugin <= 5.9.0 is vulnerable to Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR).

Understanding CVE-2023-35916

This CVE involves an Authorization Bypass Through User-Controlled Key vulnerability in Automattic WooPayments – Fully Integrated Solution Built and Supported by Woo.

What is CVE-2023-35916?

The vulnerability in WordPress WooCommerce Payments Plugin <= 5.9.0 allows attackers to exploit an Insecure Direct Object References (IDOR) issue, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

The Impact of CVE-2023-35916

The severity of this vulnerability is rated as HIGH with a CVSS base score of 7.5. It poses a risk to the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-35916

This vulnerability has a low attack complexity and requires no privileges. The attack vector is through the network with a high impact on confidentiality.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authorization through user-controlled keys, potentially leading to unauthorized access to restricted resources.

Affected Systems and Versions

Automattic WooPayments – Fully Integrated Solution Built and Supported by Woo versions from n/a through 5.9.0 are affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging an insecure direct object reference issue in the WordPress WooCommerce Payments Plugin version <= 5.9.0.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2023-35916, users are advised to take immediate action and implement the following security practices:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update to version 5.9.1 or a higher version to patch the vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor security advisories and updates related to WordPress plugins.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security releases and apply patches promptly to ensure protection against known vulnerabilities.