CVE-2023-5428 : Security Advisory and Response

This CVE-2023-5428 article discusses a SQL Injection vulnerability identified in the "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow" plugin for WordPress up to version 9.0. The vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with subscriber-level and above permissions to inject additional SQL queries, potentially leading to the extraction of sensitive database information.

Understanding CVE-2023-5428

The CVE-2023-5428 vulnerability affects the "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow" plugin for WordPress, enabling attackers to manipulate SQL queries through the plugin's shortcode, resulting in potential data extraction.

What is CVE-2023-5428?

The CVE-2023-5428 refers to a SQL Injection vulnerability in the "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow" WordPress plugin up to version 9.0. Attackers with specific permissions can exploit this flaw to tamper with SQL queries and access sensitive data within the database.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5428

The impact of CVE-2023-5428 is significant as it allows authenticated attackers to perform SQL Injection attacks, potentially compromising the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of data stored within the affected WordPress site.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5428

The technical specifics of the CVE-2023-5428 vulnerability are crucial for understanding its implications and implementing appropriate security measures.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from insufficiently sanitized user input within the plugin's shortcode, coupled with a lack of appropriate safeguards in the SQL query execution process. This oversight allows attackers to append malicious SQL queries, leading to unauthorized data access.

Affected Systems and Versions

The "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow" plugin versions up to and including 9.0 are affected by CVE-2023-5428. WordPress instances utilizing these versions of the plugin are at risk of exploitation if not promptly addressed.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with subscriber-level permissions or higher can exploit CVE-2023-5428 by leveraging the plugin's shortcode functionality to inject unauthorized SQL queries. By manipulating the existing SQL queries, attackers can potentially extract sensitive information from the underlying database.

Mitigation and Prevention

Addressing CVE-2023-5428 promptly is essential to mitigate the associated risks and enhance the security posture of affected WordPress installations.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow" plugin to a patched version that addresses the SQL Injection vulnerability.
Monitor user input and ensure proper input validation and sanitization practices within WordPress plugins to prevent similar security flaws.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and update WordPress plugins to mitigate known vulnerabilities and enhance overall security.
Implement least-privileged user permissions to restrict the impact of potential attacks initiated by authenticated users.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories related to WordPress plugins, including the "Image vertical reel scroll slideshow," and apply security patches promptly upon release to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.