CVE-2023-4725 – Simple Posts Ticker < 1.1.6 - Admin+ Stored XSS

During testing, a vulnerability was found that allows, through changing the settings, to implement Stored XSS on all pages where there is a mention of the plugin. This vulnerability is available on behalf of the administrator and allows you to leave javascript “backdoor” when capturing an administrative account, which will allow account takeover. Unfiltered_html capability is prohibited

Main info:

CVE	CVE-2023-4725
Plugin	Simple Posts Ticker
Critical	Medium
Publicly Published	September 25, 2023
Last Updated	September 25, 2023
Researcher	Dmtirii Ignatyev
OWASP TOP-10	A7: Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
PoC	Yes
Exploit	Will be later
Reference	https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2023-4725 https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/e9b9a594-c960-4692-823e-23fc60cca7e7
Plugin Security Certification by CleanTalk

Timeline

August 21, 2023	Plugin testing and vulnerability detection in the Simple Posts Ticker plugin have been completed
August 21, 2023	I contacted the author of the plugin and provided a vulnerability PoC with a description and recommendations for fixing
September 18, 2023	The author has released a fix update
September 25, 2023	Registered CVE-2023-4725

Discovery of the Vulnerability

During the process of comprehensive security testing, a critical vulnerability was unearthed in the Simple Posts Ticker plugin, specifically a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw. This vulnerability enables an attacker to execute malicious code, impersonating an administrator, by manipulating the plugin’s settings. Despite requiring administrator-level privileges, this vulnerability still poses a significant threat to website security.

Understanding of Stored XSS attack’s

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where malicious scripts are injected into a web application and subsequently stored for later execution when unsuspecting users access the affected content. In the context of this vulnerability, an attacker can leverage the plugin’s settings to store and execute malicious JavaScript code.

Exploiting the Stored XSS

Exploiting the Stored XSS vulnerability in the Simple Posts Ticker plugin requires administrator-level access to manipulate the plugin’s settings. An attacker can insert malicious code, such as JavaScript payloads, into the settings fields. When the settings are saved, the malicious code is stored and executed whenever the administrator interacts with the plugin, potentially leading to the compromise of their account.

POC:

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Despite the need for administrator privileges to exploit CVE-2023-4725, the potential risks associated with this vulnerability are severe. An attacker who successfully compromises an administrative account through this Stored XSS flaw can:

• Gain unauthorized access to sensitive website functions.
• Modify content, settings, and configurations.
• Create “backdoors” in the form of JavaScript code to maintain control.
• Launch further attacks, such as privilege escalation or data theft.

In a real-world scenario, imagine an attacker exploiting this vulnerability to compromise an administrator’s account on a website that uses the Simple Posts Ticker plugin. They could inject malicious JavaScript code into the plugin’s settings, enabling them to control the administrator’s account and potentially carry out actions that damage the website’s reputation and integrity.

Recommendations for Improved Security

To mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2023-4725 and enhance the overall security of WordPress websites using the Simple Posts Ticker plugin, the following recommendations should be followed:

• Update the plugin: Ensure the Simple Posts Ticker plugin is updated to the latest version (1.1.6 or higher), which should contain a patch addressing this vulnerability.
• Input validation and sanitization: Developers should implement rigorous input validation and data sanitization to prevent the injection of malicious code in settings fields.
• Regular security audits: Conduct routine security audits and penetration testing to identify and rectify vulnerabilities proactively.
• Least privilege principle: Limit the capabilities and permissions of administrator accounts to reduce the potential damage caused by a compromised administrative account.
• User awareness and education: Educate administrators about potential security threats and best practices for securely configuring and managing plugins.

By adhering to these recommendations, website administrators can significantly reduce the risk of Stored XSS attacks and enhance the overall security posture of their WordPress installations, even for vulnerabilities requiring administrator privileges.

#WordPressSecurity #StoredXSS #WebsiteSafety #StayProtected #MediumVulnerability

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