During recent security assessments, an alarming vulnerability was uncovered in the Front End PM WordPress plugin. This plugin, designed to provide private messaging functionality on WordPress sites, suffered from a significant security flaw in its Directory Listings system. This discovery raised concerns about the safety and privacy of users’ data on WordPress websites.
Main info:
| CVE | CVE-2023-4930 |
| Plugin | Front End PM |
| Critical | High |
| Vulnerable sites | 236 146 |
| Publicly Published | October 17, 2023 |
| Last Updated | October 17, 2023 |
| Researcher | Dmtirii Ignatyev |
| OWASP TOP-10 | A3: Sensitive Data Exposure |
| PoC | Yes |
| Exploit | Will be later |
| Reference | https://cve.mitre.org/cgi-bin/cvename.cgi?name=CVE-2023-4930 https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/c73b3276-e6f1-4f22-a888-025e5d0504f2/ |
| Plugin Security Certification by CleanTalk |  |
Timeline
| September 11, 2023 | Plugin testing and vulnerability detection in the Front End PM plugin have been completed |
| September 11, 2023 | I contacted the author of the plugin and provided a vulnerability PoC with a description and recommendations for fixing |
| October 12, 2023 | The author has released a fix update |
| October 17, 2023 | Registered CVE-2023-4930 |
Discovery of the Vulnerability
During testing, a critical vulnerability was discovered in the plugin, namely a vulnerability in the Directory Listings system, which allows an unauthorized user to view and download private files of other users. This vulnerability poses a serious security threat because it allows an attacker to gain access to confidential data and files of other users without their permission.
Understanding of Directory Listing attack’s
Directory Listing, refers to the practice of gaining unauthorized access to files and directories. The vulnerability involved in this scenario allows users to access the contents of directories and files they should not be able to see, posing a significant threat to the privacy of user data.
Exploiting
Exploiting this vulnerability is distressingly straightforward. Unauthorized users can manipulate the Front End PM Directory Listings system, granting them access to private files belonging to other users. This can be achieved without the knowledge or consent of the targeted users. Once access is gained, these files can be misused or exposed, leading to various malicious activities.
POC:
http://your_site/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/front-end-pm/2023/09/
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The exposure of sensitive data through the Front End PM plugin creates significant risks for website administrators and users. Here are potential real-world scenarios involving this vulnerability:
- Confidential Data Leaks: Attackers can access and expose confidential information, including private messages, attachments, and other sensitive data. This can result in privacy violations and misuse of sensitive information.
- Privacy Violations: User privacy is compromised as their private messages and files are accessible without permission.
- Data Manipulation: Unauthorized access to files can lead to data tampering or manipulation, potentially harming the integrity of the affected accounts and websites.
Recommendations for Improved Security
To mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability and enhance overall security, the following steps are recommended:
- Plugin Update: Front End PM developers should promptly release an updated version that addresses the Directory Listings vulnerability. Website administrators are advised to update the plugin to the latest secure version.
- Regular Security Audits: Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests to identify and remediate potential vulnerabilities proactively.
- User Data Protection: Implement robust access controls and encryption mechanisms to safeguard sensitive user data.
- User Education: Educate website administrators and users about the importance of maintaining strong, unique passwords and practicing good security hygiene.
The vulnerability (CVE-2023-4930) in the Front End PM plugin highlights the importance of maintaining robust security measures for WordPress websites. As security issues emerge, it is crucial for plugin developers and website administrators to collaborate in addressing vulnerabilities and enhancing the overall security of their sites. By taking these proactive measures, website owners can significantly reduce the likelihood of security breaches and protect user data and privacy. Staying vigilant, updating plugins, and maintaining best practices in web security are essential steps to ensure the safety of WordPress sites.
#WordPressSecurity #DirectoryListing #WebsiteSafety #StayProtected #HighVulnerability
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