A recently discovered security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-49859, affects Pixelite's Login with Ajax, a popular WordPress plugin. This vulnerability, classified as Missing Authorization, could expose the user's personal information and lead to malicious hackers gaining unauthorized access to the affected website. This blog post will shed light on the details of this vulnerability and provide solutions to help protect your WordPress environment from this risk.
Background
Pixelite's Login with Ajax is a widely used WordPress plugin that provides a seamless AJAX-powered login and registration experience for website users. However, it has been found to have a Missing Authorization vulnerability, particularly in versions n/a through 4.1.
Exploit details
The vulnerability, CVE-2023-49859, exists due to an incorrect configuration of access control security levels within the plugin's source code. This lack of proper authorization checks can lead to unintended exposure of user data and allow attackers to gain unauthorized access to the site's administration panel. Below is a code snippet that highlights the vulnerable code section:
´´´python
[...]
urlpatterns = [
[...]
path("ajax_login/", ajax_login),
[...]
]
´´´
In the above code snippet, the ajax_login() function authenticates the user credentials without performing any proper authorization checks. This permits attackers to exploit the vulnerability by sending customized AJAX requests to access sensitive information and execute malicious actions.
A potential attacker can use the following AJAX request to exploit the vulnerability
´´´javascript
$.ajax({
type: "POST",
url: "/ajax_login/",
if(response.result === "success") {
// Attacker gains unauthorized access
}
}
});
´´´
This exploit attempt consists of sending an HTTP POST request to the "/ajax_login/" URL with the malicious user's username and password. If the plugin does not have proper authorization checks, the attacker may gain unauthorized access to the site's administration panel.
Original references
The vulnerability was reported by the responsible security researchers that published their findings at the following original resources:
- CVE-2023-49859 Official CVE Record
- Security Advisory - Missing Authorization vulnerability in Pixelite Login With Ajax
Update the Login with Ajax plugin to the latest version, which has addressed this vulnerability.
2. Implement proper authorization checks in the plugin's code to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive information and functions.
3. Regularly monitor security advisories for the plugins and themes installed on your WordPress site and apply updates whenever necessary.
Conclusion
The Missing Authorization vulnerability in Pixelite's Login With Ajax plugin poses a significant risk to the affected websites. The vulnerability allows attackers to exploit incorrectly configured access control security levels, and by following the above recommendations, you can help protect your WordPress environment from this potential threat. Always keep your plugins up-to-date and never underestimate the importance of regular security monitoring.
Timeline
Published on: 12/09/2024 13:15:37 UTC