CVE-2023-5638 : Security Advisory and Response

The Booster for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress has been identified with a vulnerability known as Stored Cross-Site Scripting via 'wcj_image' shortcode in versions up to, and including, 7.1.2. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages that will execute whenever a user accesses the injected page.

Understanding CVE-2023-5638

This section will delve into the details of the CVE-2023-5638 vulnerability regarding its impact, technical aspects, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-5638?

The CVE-2023-5638 vulnerability involves Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the 'wcj_image' shortcode in the Booster for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress. The lack of proper input validation and output escaping allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5638

This vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions. By injecting malicious scripts via the 'wcj_image' shortcode, the attackers can execute arbitrary web scripts on pages, potentially leading to various security risks.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5638

In this section, we will explore the technical aspects of CVE-2023-5638, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Booster for WooCommerce plugin arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This allows attackers to insert and execute arbitrary web scripts through the 'wcj_image' shortcode.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is the Booster for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 7.1.2. Users with vulnerable versions are at risk of exploitation by authenticated attackers with the mentioned permissions.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting CVE-2023-5638 involves leveraging the 'wcj_image' shortcode to inject malicious scripts into pages. Once injected, these scripts will execute whenever a user accesses the compromised page, potentially leading to the execution of arbitrary code.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the CVE-2023-5638 vulnerability, it is crucial to follow immediate steps, adopt long-term security practices, and apply relevant patches and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should review and update the Booster for WooCommerce plugin to a secure version that addresses the identified vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring user permissions and restricting access privileges can help mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing strict input validation, output escaping, and regular security audits can enhance the overall security posture of WordPress websites using the Booster for WooCommerce plugin. Educating users about safe practices and promoting awareness about potential security threats are also essential for long-term security.

Patching and Updates

Users of the affected plugin should promptly apply any available security patches or updates released by the plugin developers. Staying informed about security advisories and maintaining up-to-date software versions are critical steps in safeguarding against potential vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-5638.