CVE-2023-3958 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE record discloses a vulnerability in the WP Remote Users Sync plugin for WordPress, which allows Server Side Request Forgery (SSRF) via the 'notify_ping_remote' AJAX function in versions up to and including 1.2.12. The issue enables authenticated attackers with subscriber-level permissions or higher to send web requests to arbitrary locations from the web application, potentially leading to unauthorized access to internal services. The vulnerability was partially patched in version 1.2.12 and fully addressed in version 1.2.13.

Understanding CVE-2023-3958

The CVE-2023-3958 vulnerability exposes a security flaw in the WP Remote Users Sync plugin for WordPress, facilitating Server Side Request Forgery (SSRF) attacks.

What is CVE-2023-3958?

The vulnerability in WP Remote Users Sync allows authenticated attackers to exploit the 'notify_ping_remote' AJAX function to perform SSRF attacks, posing a risk to the security of the affected WordPress installations.

The Impact of CVE-2023-3958

CVE-2023-3958 poses a high severity risk (CVSS base score of 8.5) as it enables malicious actors to make unauthorized web requests and potentially compromise internal services.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-3958

The technical aspects of CVE-2023-3958 provide insight into the vulnerability, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in WP Remote Users Sync allows for SSRF attacks via the 'notify_ping_remote' AJAX function, leading to unauthorized web requests and potential information disclosure or modifications within internal services.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue affects versions of the WP Remote Users Sync plugin up to and including 1.2.12. Users of versions prior to 1.2.13 are at risk of exploitation by attackers with harmful intent.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the 'notify_ping_remote' AJAX function, attackers with authenticated access and certain permissions can abuse the SSRF vulnerability to send requests to arbitrary locations, possibly gaining unauthorized access to sensitive information.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-3958 requires immediate action to mitigate the risk and prevent potential exploitation through proactive security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the WP Remote Users Sync plugin to version 1.2.13 or later to apply the complete patch and eliminate the SSRF vulnerability.
Monitor system logs and web traffic for any suspicious activity related to unauthorized web requests initiated by the plugin.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust access controls and permissions to restrict the capabilities of authenticated users, reducing the risk of SSRF attacks.
Regularly audit and update plugins and software components to maintain a secure WordPress environment and mitigate emerging threats.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and updates released by plugin developers to promptly address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of WordPress installations.