10Web AI Assistant Vulnerability – AI Content Writing Assistant – Missing Authorization to Arbitrary Plugin Installation – CVE-2023-6985 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2023-6985?

What is CVE-2023-6985? CVE-2023-6985 is a designated identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the 10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows for unauthorized plugin installation due to a missing capability check, which can be exploited by users with subscriber-level access or higher. This security flaw is critical because it potentially enables attackers to escalate their privileges on a WordPress site, leading to unauthorized access and control. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on January 25, 2024, and has since been addressed by the plugin developers in a subsequent update.

Q: How does CVE-2023-6985 affect my WordPress site?

How does CVE-2023-6985 affect my WordPress site? If your WordPress site uses the 10Web AI Assistant plugin versions up to and including 1.0.18, it could be vulnerable to CVE-2023-6985. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with relatively low-level permissions to install arbitrary plugins on your site without proper authorization. The installation of unauthorized plugins can lead to a range of security issues, including site defacement, data breaches, and the potential introduction of malicious code. It's essential to update the plugin to the patched version to protect your site from these risks.

Q: How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6985?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6985? To determine if your site is at risk, you need to check the version of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running any version of the plugin up to and including 1.0.18, it is vulnerable to this security issue. You can check the plugin version by navigating to the "Plugins" section of your WordPress dashboard. The version number is displayed next to the plugin name. If you find that your plugin is one of the affected versions, it is crucial to update it immediately.

Q: What steps should I take if my site is affected?

What steps should I take if my site is affected? If your site is running a vulnerable version of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 1.0.19 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched. You can update the plugin directly from your WordPress dashboard by going to the "Plugins" section and clicking the update link for the 10Web AI Assistant. After updating, it's wise to review your site for any signs of compromise, such as the presence of unfamiliar plugins or changes to site content. If you detect any suspicious activity, further investigation and potentially professional assistance may be required to secure your site fully.

Q: Are there any alternatives to the 10Web AI Assistant plugin?

Are there any alternatives to the 10Web AI Assistant plugin? Yes, there are several alternative plugins available for AI content assistance in WordPress. While each plugin offers different features and functionalities, some popular alternatives include Writesonic, Jasper, and Copy.ai plugins for WordPress. When considering an alternative, it's important to research and compare the features, user reviews, and update history of each option. Choosing a plugin with a strong track record of security and regular updates can help minimize the risk of future vulnerabilities.

Q: How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future?

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future? To protect your WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities in the future, it's crucial to keep all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core software up to date. Developers often release updates to patch known security issues, so regular updates are your first line of defense against potential vulnerabilities. Additionally, consider using a reputable security plugin to monitor your site for potential threats and vulnerabilities. Implementing strong passwords, using two-factor authentication, and limiting user permissions to only what's necessary can also help secure your site against unauthorized access.

Q: What is the CVSS score of CVE-2023-6985, and what does it mean?

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2023-6985, and what does it mean? The CVSS score of CVE-2023-6985 is 6.5. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is a standardized framework for rating the severity of security vulnerabilities. Scores range from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater severity. A score of 6.5 classifies this vulnerability as medium severity, suggesting that while it poses a significant risk, it may not be as critical as vulnerabilities rated closer to 10. However, even vulnerabilities with medium severity scores should be addressed promptly to ensure site security.

Q: Can updating the 10Web AI Assistant plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

Can updating the 10Web AI Assistant plugin cause compatibility issues with my site? While updating plugins is essential for security, there is always a possibility that a new version could cause compatibility issues with your site's theme or other plugins. To minimize potential disruptions, it's a good practice to back up your site before applying updates and, if possible, test updates in a staging environment. If you encounter issues after updating, you may need to troubleshoot the problem by deactivating other plugins or switching themes to identify any conflicts. If problems persist, consider reaching out to the plugin developers or a WordPress professional for assistance.

Q: How do I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How do I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves a proactive approach. Subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and forums that focus on WordPress security, such as the Wordfence blog, WPScan Vulnerability Database, and the official WordPress.org news section. Many security plugins and services also offer alerts and notifications about vulnerabilities in installed plugins. Keeping an eye on updates and security advisories from plugin developers and WordPress core can help you stay ahead of potential threats.

Q: What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-6985 or any other vulnerability, the first step is to update the affected plugin to the latest version to close the security gap. Next, conduct a thorough audit of your site for any unauthorized changes, installations, or other signs of compromise. Consider enlisting the help of a professional security service to clean and secure your site. After addressing the immediate issue, review your site's security practices and implement stronger measures, such as changing passwords, limiting user permissions, and regularly scanning for vulnerabilities, to prevent future compromises.

By Your WP Guy | January 25, 2024

Plugin Name: 10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: ai-assistant-by-10web
Software Status: Active
Software Author: 10web
Software Downloads: 20,225
Active Installs: 30,000
Last Updated: January 30, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.0.19
Affected Versions: <= 1.0.18

Vulnerability Details:

Name: 10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant <= 1.0.18
Title: Missing Authorization to Arbitrary Plugin Installation
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-6985
CVSS Score: 6.5
Publicly Published: January 25, 2024
Researcher: Krzysztof Zając - CERT PL
Description: The 10Web AI Assistant plugin for WordPress contains a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.0.18, where it fails to properly check user capabilities for the install_plugin AJAX action. This lapse in security allows authenticated users with merely subscriber-level access to install arbitrary plugins, potentially leading to escalated privileges and further compromise of the site.

Summary:

The 10Web AI Assistant plugin, a tool designed to aid in content creation through AI, harbors a significant security flaw in its versions up to 1.0.18. This flaw permits users with basic subscriber access to install any plugin, which could be exploited to gain unauthorized control over a WordPress site. The developers have addressed this vulnerability in the latest version, 1.0.19.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, identified by Krzysztof Zając from CERT PL, exposes WordPress sites to considerable risk by allowing low-level users to install plugins without proper authorization. Such capabilities should be restricted to administrators, and the oversight in the 10Web AI Assistant plugin creates a backdoor for attackers to escalate their privileges within the WordPress dashboard. The potential for harm includes but is not limited to, unauthorized data access, website defacement, and the introduction of further malicious code.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: It is crucial for users of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin to immediately update to version 1.0.19, which contains the necessary security patch.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should audit their WordPress sites for any unauthorized plugin installations or unusual activity, especially if running vulnerable versions of the plugin.
Alternate Plugins: Considering alternative AI content writing assistants might be wise until the security of this plugin is thoroughly vetted in subsequent updates.
Stay Updated: Ensure all WordPress components, including plugins, themes, and the core software, are kept up-to-date to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action by 10web to patch this vulnerability demonstrates the ongoing battle between software developers and potential security threats. For WordPress site owners, this incident highlights the critical importance of regular updates and vigilance in managing site components. By upgrading to version 1.0.19 or later of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin, users can safeguard their sites against this particular vulnerability.

References:

In today's digital age, the security of a WordPress website is paramount, not just for the site's functionality but for maintaining the trust and safety of its users. The recent discovery of a critical vulnerability in the "10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant" plugin, marked as CVE-2023-6985, serves as a stark reminder of the continuous need for vigilance and timely updates. This vulnerability highlights the potential risks that even seemingly benign tools, such as those designed to aid in content creation, can pose to a website's security.

Plugin Overview: 10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant

The 10Web AI Assistant plugin is a popular tool among WordPress users, designed to facilitate content creation with the help of AI. With over 30,000 active installs and more than 20,000 downloads, its impact is significant. Authored by 10web and last updated on January 30, 2024, the plugin's wide usage makes any vulnerabilities a concern for a large number of websites.

Vulnerability Details

CVE-2023-6985 reveals a serious flaw in versions up to and including 1.0.18 of the plugin, where it fails to correctly verify user permissions for installing additional plugins. This gap allows even low-level users, such as subscribers, to install arbitrary plugins, creating a pathway for unauthorized access and control over the affected WordPress sites. Identified by Krzysztof Zając from CERT PL and publicly disclosed on January 25, 2024, this vulnerability has been assigned a CVSS score of 6.5, indicating a substantial risk.

Risks and Potential Impacts

The implications of this vulnerability are far-reaching. Unauthorized plugin installation can lead to escalated privileges, data breaches, website defacement, and the introduction of malicious code, endangering both the site and its users. For small business owners, such breaches can tarnish reputation, erode customer trust, and potentially lead to significant financial losses.

Remediation and Prevention

To address this vulnerability, users must update the 10Web AI Assistant plugin to version 1.0.19 or later, where the issue has been patched. Website administrators should also conduct a thorough review for any unauthorized plugins that may have been installed and assess the site for other signs of compromise. Staying updated with the latest plugin versions and implementing regular security checks are crucial steps in safeguarding a WordPress site.

Conclusion

The discovery of CVE-2023-6985 within the 10Web AI Assistant plugin underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures for WordPress sites. For small business owners, who may already be stretched thin managing various aspects of their business, the need to stay vigilant against such vulnerabilities is both a challenge and a necessity. Leveraging automated update features, employing reputable security plugins, and periodically consulting with cybersecurity professionals can help mitigate these risks. In the digital realm, where threats continuously evolve, the security of your WordPress site is not just a technical issue but a cornerstone of your business's integrity and reliability.

Staying Secure

Staying on top of WordPress security can feel overwhelming for small business owners without dedicated IT staff. At Your WP Guy, we exist to shoulder that burden for you. Our WordPress experts can fully audit, secure, maintain and support your site - so you can focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

Don't tackle security risks alone. Let us help you assess any impact from this vulnerability, update your plugins, and implement ongoing maintenance to avoid future threats. We treat your website like it's our own - because we know how critical it is for reaching your customers.

Get in touch for a free consultation today on making WordPress security stress-free. Call 678-995-5169 or book a call here. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you safeguard your online presence.

10Web AI Assistant Vulnerability – AI Content Writing Assistant – Missing Authorization to Arbitrary Plugin Installation – CVE-2023-6985 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-6985?

CVE-2023-6985 is a designated identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the 10Web AI Assistant – AI Content Writing Assistant plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows for unauthorized plugin installation due to a missing capability check, which can be exploited by users with subscriber-level access or higher.

This security flaw is critical because it potentially enables attackers to escalate their privileges on a WordPress site, leading to unauthorized access and control. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on January 25, 2024, and has since been addressed by the plugin developers in a subsequent update.

How does CVE-2023-6985 affect my WordPress site?

If your WordPress site uses the 10Web AI Assistant plugin versions up to and including 1.0.18, it could be vulnerable to CVE-2023-6985. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with relatively low-level permissions to install arbitrary plugins on your site without proper authorization.

The installation of unauthorized plugins can lead to a range of security issues, including site defacement, data breaches, and the potential introduction of malicious code. It's essential to update the plugin to the patched version to protect your site from these risks.

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6985?

To determine if your site is at risk, you need to check the version of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running any version of the plugin up to and including 1.0.18, it is vulnerable to this security issue.

You can check the plugin version by navigating to the "Plugins" section of your WordPress dashboard. The version number is displayed next to the plugin name. If you find that your plugin is one of the affected versions, it is crucial to update it immediately.

What steps should I take if my site is affected?

If your site is running a vulnerable version of the 10Web AI Assistant plugin, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 1.0.19 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched. You can update the plugin directly from your WordPress dashboard by going to the "Plugins" section and clicking the update link for the 10Web AI Assistant.

After updating, it's wise to review your site for any signs of compromise, such as the presence of unfamiliar plugins or changes to site content. If you detect any suspicious activity, further investigation and potentially professional assistance may be required to secure your site fully.

Are there any alternatives to the 10Web AI Assistant plugin?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins available for AI content assistance in WordPress. While each plugin offers different features and functionalities, some popular alternatives include Writesonic, Jasper, and Copy.ai plugins for WordPress.

When considering an alternative, it's important to research and compare the features, user reviews, and update history of each option. Choosing a plugin with a strong track record of security and regular updates can help minimize the risk of future vulnerabilities.

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future?

To protect your WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities in the future, it's crucial to keep all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core software up to date. Developers often release updates to patch known security issues, so regular updates are your first line of defense against potential vulnerabilities.

Additionally, consider using a reputable security plugin to monitor your site for potential threats and vulnerabilities. Implementing strong passwords, using two-factor authentication, and limiting user permissions to only what's necessary can also help secure your site against unauthorized access.

What is the CVSS score of CVE-2023-6985, and what does it mean?

The CVSS score of CVE-2023-6985 is 6.5. The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is a standardized framework for rating the severity of security vulnerabilities. Scores range from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater severity.

A score of 6.5 classifies this vulnerability as medium severity, suggesting that while it poses a significant risk, it may not be as critical as vulnerabilities rated closer to 10. However, even vulnerabilities with medium severity scores should be addressed promptly to ensure site security.

Can updating the 10Web AI Assistant plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

While updating plugins is essential for security, there is always a possibility that a new version could cause compatibility issues with your site's theme or other plugins. To minimize potential disruptions, it's a good practice to back up your site before applying updates and, if possible, test updates in a staging environment.

If you encounter issues after updating, you may need to troubleshoot the problem by deactivating other plugins or switching themes to identify any conflicts. If problems persist, consider reaching out to the plugin developers or a WordPress professional for assistance.

How do I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves a proactive approach. Subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and forums that focus on WordPress security, such as the Wordfence blog, WPScan Vulnerability Database, and the official WordPress.org news section.

Many security plugins and services also offer alerts and notifications about vulnerabilities in installed plugins. Keeping an eye on updates and security advisories from plugin developers and WordPress core can help you stay ahead of potential threats.

What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability?

If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-6985 or any other vulnerability, the first step is to update the affected plugin to the latest version to close the security gap. Next, conduct a thorough audit of your site for any unauthorized changes, installations, or other signs of compromise.

Consider enlisting the help of a professional security service to clean and secure your site. After addressing the immediate issue, review your site's security practices and implement stronger measures, such as changing passwords, limiting user permissions, and regularly scanning for vulnerabilities, to prevent future compromises.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged 10Web AI Assistant, content creation tools, CVE-2023-6985, Cybersecurity, Plugin Vulnerability, Small Business Security, unauthorized plugin installation, Website Protection, wordpress security, WordPress Updates