CVE-2023-6627 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

WP Go Maps < 9.0.28 - Unauthenticated Stored XSS vulnerability has been identified and published under CVE-2023-6627 by WPScan.

Understanding CVE-2023-6627

This section provides insights into what CVE-2023-6627 entails, including its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2023-6627?

The CVE-2023-6627 pertains to the WP Go Maps (formerly WP Google Maps) WordPress plugin before version 9.0.28. It exposes a vulnerability where most of its REST API routes are inadequately protected, allowing attackers to inject and store malicious HTML/JavaScript on affected websites.

The Impact of CVE-2023-6627

The impact of this vulnerability is concerning as it enables unauthorized individuals to execute stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks on websites that have the vulnerable WP Go Maps plugin installed. This can lead to various security risks and compromise the integrity of the affected websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2023-6627

Delving into the technical aspects of CVE-2023-6627 provides a better understanding of the vulnerability's nature and potential risks.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in WP Go Maps (formerly WP Google Maps) version prior to 9.0.28 lies in its inadequate protection of REST API routes. Attackers can exploit this flaw to inject and store malicious HTML and JavaScript code, leading to stored XSS attacks on websites utilizing the vulnerable plugin.

Affected Systems and Versions

The CVE-2023-6627 vulnerability affects WP Go Maps (formerly WP Google Maps) plugin versions earlier than 9.0.28. Websites running versions of the plugin that fall within this range are at risk of being compromised by attackers leveraging the unauthenticated stored XSS vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability in WP Go Maps by sending specially crafted requests to the plugin's unprotected REST API routes. Through this method, they can inject malicious scripts into the site, which may execute in the context of unsuspecting users, potentially leading to unauthorized actions and data theft.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the risks posed by CVE-2023-6627, it is crucial for website owners and administrators to implement effective mitigation and prevention measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website owners should immediately update the WP Go Maps plugin to version 9.0.28 or later to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring website activities for any signs of unauthorized access or suspicious behavior can help detect and respond to potential attacks in a timely manner.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing a robust security protocol that includes regular security audits, employing secure coding practices, and staying informed about plugin updates and security advisories can enhance the overall security posture of a website and mitigate future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Ensuring timely patching of software vulnerabilities and keeping plugins and themes up to date with the latest security patches is essential to prevent attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities such as CVE-2023-6627. Regularly monitoring for security alerts and promptly applying patches can help safeguard websites against potential security threats.

By understanding the nature of the vulnerability, its impact, and implementing appropriate security measures, website owners can effectively mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2023-6627 and enhance the overall security of their online platforms.