CVE-2023-5860 : What You Need to Know

This CVE-2023-5860 affects the Icons Font Loader plugin for WordPress and allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level access to upload arbitrary files due to missing file type validation. This vulnerability can potentially lead to remote code execution on the affected site's server.

Understanding CVE-2023-5860

The Icons Font Loader plugin for WordPress is susceptible to arbitrary file uploads, posing a significant security risk for websites utilizing this plugin. The issue stems from a lack of file type validation in the upload function, making it exploitable by authenticated attackers with elevated privileges.

What is CVE-2023-5860?

CVE-2023-5860 highlights a vulnerability in the Icons Font Loader WordPress plugin, enabling attackers to upload arbitrary files onto the server, potentially leading to remote code execution. This flaw exists in all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.1.2.

The Impact of CVE-2023-5860

The impact of CVE-2023-5860 is rated as HIGH, with a CVSS v3.1 base score of 7.2. The vulnerability allows attackers to compromise the integrity, confidentiality, and availability of the affected site, posing a serious threat to its security.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-5860

The following technical details outline the vulnerability in the Icons Font Loader plugin for WordPress:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Icons Font Loader arises from the lack of file type validation in the upload function, allowing authenticated attackers to upload malicious files onto the server.

Affected Systems and Versions

All versions of the Icons Font Loader plugin up to and including 1.1.2 are affected by this vulnerability. Websites using these versions are at risk of exploitation by attackers with administrator-level access.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the missing file type validation in the upload function of the Icons Font Loader plugin, attackers with the necessary permissions can upload arbitrary files to the server, potentially enabling them to execute malicious code remotely.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-5860 and enhance the security of websites using the Icons Font Loader plugin, the following measures should be taken:

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade: Ensure the Icons Font Loader plugin is updated to a version that includes a patch for the vulnerability.
Monitor: Regularly monitor the website for any suspicious activity or unauthorized file uploads.
Restrict Access: Limit administrator-level access to trusted users to reduce the likelihood of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Audits: Conduct security audits to identify and address potential vulnerabilities in plugins and themes.
Security Training: Provide training to administrators on secure practices and the importance of maintaining up-to-date software.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by the plugin developer. Promptly apply these updates to ensure that known vulnerabilities are mitigated and the plugin remains secure.