CVE-2023-4840 : What You Need to Know

This CVE-2023-4840 involves a vulnerability in the MapPress Maps for WordPress plugin for WordPress, allowing for Stored Cross-Site Scripting in versions up to, and including, 2.88.4. The issue stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts.

Understanding CVE-2023-4840

This section delves deeper into the nature of CVE-2023-4840 and its impact on affected systems.

What is CVE-2023-4840?

The vulnerability in CVE-2023-4840, known as Stored Cross-Site Scripting, arises from inadequate handling of user-supplied attributes in the 'mappress' shortcode within the MapPress Maps for WordPress plugin. This flaw allows attackers to insert malicious scripts that execute when a user accesses compromised pages.

The Impact of CVE-2023-4840

The impact of CVE-2023-4840 is significant as it grants attackers the ability to execute arbitrary scripts on vulnerable WordPress sites using the affected plugin. This can lead to various malicious activities, compromising user data and site integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-4840

Exploring the technical aspects of CVE-2023-4840 provides insights into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in MapPress Maps for WordPress versions up to 2.88.4 allows authenticated attackers to embed malicious scripts using the 'mappress' shortcode, posing a risk of Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. This occurs due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system in this CVE is the MapPress Maps for WordPress plugin with versions equal to or less than 2.88.4. It is crucial for users of these versions to take immediate action to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-4840 requires access to the 'mappress' shortcode within the vulnerable plugin. Attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can abuse this functionality to inject and execute malicious scripts, potentially compromising site security.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2023-4840 effectively, users are advised to implement the following mitigation strategies and best security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the MapPress Maps for WordPress plugin to a secure version beyond 2.88.4 to eliminate the vulnerability.
Conduct a thorough security review of the WordPress site to check for any signs of exploitation.
Monitor user permissions and restrict contributor-level access to prevent unauthorized script injection.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and themes to ensure the latest security patches are applied promptly.
Educate users on safe practices and the risks of executing unauthorized scripts on the site.
Employ security plugins and tools to scan for potential vulnerabilities and enhance overall site protection.

Patching and Updates

It is imperative for users of the MapPress Maps for WordPress plugin to stay informed about security updates and promptly install patches released by the plugin developer. Keeping the plugin up-to-date is essential in safeguarding WordPress sites against known vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-4840.