CVE-2023-47805 - Missing Authorization Vulnerability in Themewinter WPCafe Allows Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels

A recently discovered vulnerability categorized as CVE-2023-47805 has been found to affect the WordPress plugin Themewinter WPCafe. This missing authorization vulnerability allows attackers to exploit incorrectly configured access control security levels in various versions of WPCafe ranging from non-available versions (n/a) through version 2.2.22.

The vulnerability arises due to inadequacies in the access control mechanisms, wherein certain sensitive actions are not adequately protected by the requisite authorization checks. As a result, unauthorized attackers can gain unintended control over the application to perform malicious activities.

Exploit Details

Versions affected: WPCafe from n/a through 2.2.22

The missing authorization vulnerability primarily manifests in the form of improperly set up access control security layers. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to carry out potentially harmful actions within the affected WPCafe installations. Some examples of potential malicious activities include modifying data, changing security settings, and accessing sensitive information.

Original References

Multiple resources discuss the details of the CVE-2023-47805 vulnerability, including the relevant attack vectors, methods of exploitation, and remedial measures. Here are a few links to the original references:

1. National Vulnerability Database (NVD) - CVE-2023-47805

2. CVE Details - CVE-2023-47805

3. Exploit Database - CVE-2023-47805

A code snippet demonstrating the vulnerability within the affected versions of WPCafe

add_action( 'wp_ajax_wpc_edit_form_data', 'wpc_edit_form_data' );
add_action( 'wp_ajax_wpc_add_approval', 'wpc_add_appointment_approval' );

function wpc_edit_form_data() {
    // Missing authorization check here
    // Perform sensitive actions
}

function wpc_add_appointment_approval() {
    // Missing authorization check here
    // Perform sensitive actions
}

As can be seen in the code above, the wpc_edit_form_data and wpc_add_appointment_approval functions lack the necessary authorization checks. Consequently, unauthorized users can gain access to the functionality associated with the functions, leading to dire security consequences.

Mitigation and Conclusion

The primary action required to mitigate the CVE-2023-47805 vulnerability is to update the affected WPCafe installations to a version newer than 2.2.22, where the vulnerability has been patched. In case an update is not feasible, consider implementing the appropriate authorization checks in the plugin's code to protect the application from unauthorized access.

To protect your WordPress installation, always ensure that you adhere to the best security practices and timely update all plugins and themes to their latest versions. Maintaining proper access control security layers is essential to safeguard your site against unauthorized access and potential security breaches.

Timeline

Published on: 12/09/2024 13:15:30 UTC