CVE-2023-5381 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

This CVE-2023-5381 focuses on a vulnerability found in the Elementor Addon Elements plugin for WordPress, affecting versions up to and including 1.12.7. The vulnerability allows for Stored Cross-Site Scripting via admin settings due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping.

Understanding CVE-2023-5381

This section delves into the specifics of CVE-2023-5381, discussing the nature of the vulnerability and its potential impact.

What is CVE-2023-5381?

CVE-2023-5381 is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability present in the Elementor Addon Elements plugin for WordPress. Attackers with appropriate permissions can inject malicious scripts into pages that execute when accessed by users.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5381

This vulnerability poses a significant security risk as it allows authenticated attackers with elevated permissions to insert arbitrary web scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized actions and compromised user data. It specifically affects multi-site installations and instances where unfiltered_html is disabled.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5381

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-5381, including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the admin settings of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin, enabling attackers to craft and inject malicious scripts that execute within the context of the affected pages.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Elementor Addon Elements plugin versions up to and including 1.12.7 are affected by CVE-2023-5381. Users of these versions are at risk of exploitation if proper mitigation measures are not implemented promptly.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers, particularly those with administrator-level permissions or higher, can exploit this vulnerability by leveraging the lack of input validation and escaping mechanisms in the plugin's admin settings. By injecting specially crafted scripts, they can execute unauthorized actions on the targeted WordPress installations.

Mitigation and Prevention

Mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2023-5381 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices to fortify WordPress installations against potential exploits.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the Elementor Addon Elements plugin to a patched version beyond 1.12.7.
Maintain strict control over user permissions and access levels, especially for admin accounts with the ability to modify settings and content.
Regularly monitor and audit admin settings and user-generated content for any signs of malicious scripts or activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust input validation and output escaping mechanisms in plugins and themes to prevent cross-site scripting vulnerabilities.
Conduct security assessments and audits periodically to identify and address potential security weaknesses within WordPress installations.
Educate administrators and users about best practices for securing WordPress websites, including avoiding unnecessary plugin installations and keeping software up to date.

Patching and Updates

Users should prioritize installing security patches and updates released by the plugin developers promptly to address known vulnerabilities and enhance the overall security posture of their WordPress websites.