CVE-2023-41658 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-41658, including its description, impact, technical details, and mitigation methods.

Understanding CVE-2023-41658

CVE-2023-41658 is a vulnerability that affects the "WordPress Photo Gallery Slideshow & Masonry Tiled Gallery" plugin versions <= 1.0.13, leading to a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) exploit.

What is CVE-2023-41658?

The CVE-2023-41658 vulnerability refers to an Unauthenticated Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) security flaw present in the affected plugin version 1.0.13 and below. It allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.

The Impact of CVE-2023-41658

The impact of CVE-2023-41658 is classified as a High severity issue based on the CVSS v3.1 score. With a Base Score of 7.1 (High), the vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized script execution, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-41658

The following technical details outline the vulnerability in depth:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the "WordPress Photo Gallery Slideshow & Masonry Tiled Gallery" plugin allows for Unauthenticated Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is the Photo Gallery Slideshow & Masonry Tiled Gallery plugin by I Thirteen Web Solution with versions equal to or less than 1.0.13.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by injecting malicious scripts through specially crafted URLs, posing a risk to users who interact with the affected content.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the CVE-2023-41658 vulnerability, users and administrators should take the following steps:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the plugin to version 1.0.14 or a higher release to patch the security flaw.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and software to prevent security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates provided by plugin developers to address known vulnerabilities.