CVE-2023-6373 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2023-6373, including its description, impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

Understanding CVE-2023-6373

CVE-2023-6373 is a vulnerability found in the ArtPlacer Widget WordPress plugin before version 2.20.7. It is categorized as a SQL Injection vulnerability (CWE-89) and a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability (CWE-352).

What is CVE-2023-6373?

The CVE-2023-6373 vulnerability exists in the ArtPlacer Widget WordPress plugin before version 2.20.7. It arises due to the plugin's failure to properly sanitize and escape the "id" parameter before executing a query. This oversight allows malicious actors with editor-level access or higher to exploit the vulnerability through SQL Injection attacks. Additionally, the absence of CSRF protection opens up the potential for exploitation through CSRF attacks against logged-in editors or higher roles.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6373

Exploitation of CVE-2023-6373 could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, data theft, and manipulation of the affected WordPress site. Attackers could potentially execute malicious SQL queries and perform unauthorized actions, compromising the integrity and security of the website.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6373

The following sections outline the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism associated with CVE-2023-6373.

Vulnerability Description

The ArtPlacer Widget WordPress plugin before version 2.20.7 is susceptible to SQL Injection attacks due to the improper handling of user input. This vulnerability allows attackers with editor-level access or higher to execute malicious SQL queries, posing a significant security risk to affected websites.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE-2023-6373 vulnerability impacts the ArtPlacer Widget WordPress plugin versions prior to 2.20.7. Websites running versions of the plugin less than 2.20.7 are vulnerable to exploitation if appropriate precautions are not taken.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit CVE-2023-6373 by manipulating the "id" parameter in the ArtPlacer Widget plugin's queries through SQL Injection. Additionally, the absence of CSRF protection opens the possibility for attackers to execute CSRF attacks against logged-in editors or above, further exposing the vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-6373, immediate steps should be taken to address the vulnerability and prevent potential exploitation. Long-term security practices and regular patching and updates are crucial for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the ArtPlacer Widget WordPress plugin to version 2.20.7 or higher to patch the vulnerability.
Implement proper input validation and sanitization techniques to prevent SQL Injection attacks.
Ensure that CSRF protection mechanisms are in place to mitigate the risk of CSRF attacks against the plugin.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit plugins for security vulnerabilities.
Educate website administrators and users about best practices for securing WordPress websites.
Utilize security plugins and tools to enhance the overall security posture of the website.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by plugin developers. Promptly apply updates to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed and the website remains protected against potential exploits of CVE-2023-6373.