List Category Posts Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2023-6994 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What exactly is CVE-2023-6994?

What exactly is CVE-2023-6994? CVE-2023-6994 is the identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the List Category Posts plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability is categorized as Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via Shortcode and was discovered in versions of the plugin up to and including 0.89.3. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes in the 'catlist' shortcode. It allows authenticated users with contributor-level or higher permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts, potentially compromising the security of the website and its users.

Q: How does the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

How does the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affect WordPress websites? The CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affects WordPress websites by exposing them to potential Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This means that attackers with sufficient access privileges could exploit the vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts can run in the browsers of website visitors, leading to various malicious activities such as stealing user data, hijacking user sessions, or defacing the website. Such attacks not only compromise the website's security but can also damage its reputation and erode user trust.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, often abbreviated as Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into a website, which are then stored on the server. When other users visit the affected pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers. This type of attack is particularly dangerous because it can affect multiple users long after the initial script injection. It can lead to data breaches, session hijacking, and other security issues for website visitors.

Q: Why is it important to update the List Category Posts plugin?

Why is it important to update the List Category Posts plugin? Updating the List Category Posts plugin is crucial to safeguard your WordPress website against the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability. This vulnerability, if exploited, can lead to serious security breaches. Updating to the latest version, which contains a patch for this vulnerability, is the most effective way to protect your site. By keeping the plugin updated, you ensure that the latest security fixes are in place, reducing the risk of cyber attacks and protecting both your website and its users from potential harm.

Q: What are the risks of not updating plugins in WordPress?

What are the risks of not updating plugins in WordPress? Not updating plugins in WordPress can expose your website to various security vulnerabilities, as outdated plugins are often targeted by attackers. These vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and even a complete site takeover. Moreover, outdated plugins may not function correctly with newer versions of WordPress or other updated plugins, leading to compatibility issues or broken functionality on your site. Regular updates are essential for maintaining both the security and smooth operation of your website.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994? To check if your WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994, verify the version of your List Category Posts plugin. If your site is running a version of the plugin that is 0.89.3 or older, it is vulnerable to this security issue. You can check the plugin version by going to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard. It's recommended to update the plugin immediately if it's not on the latest version, which contains the security patch.

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

What should I do if my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the List Category Posts plugin to the latest version to close the security gap. Then, perform a thorough scan of your website using a reputable security tool to identify and remove any malicious scripts or content. You should also change all user passwords and review user roles and permissions as a precaution. If needed, consult with a cybersecurity professional for a more in-depth investigation and recovery assistance.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to List Category Posts?

Are there alternative plugins to List Category Posts? Yes, there are alternative plugins to List Category Posts that offer similar functionality for listing posts by categories using shortcodes. When looking for alternatives, consider the features you need, the plugin's security history, and its compatibility with your current WordPress version. It's important to research and read reviews before installing a new plugin. Remember, even alternative plugins should be kept up-to-date for security reasons.

Q: How often are WordPress plugins typically updated?

How often are WordPress plugins typically updated? The frequency of WordPress plugin updates varies based on the plugin. Some are updated frequently, especially if they are actively maintained and have a large user base. Others may receive updates less often. It’s important for website owners to regularly check for updates, as these can include critical security patches, bug fixes, and new features. Setting up notifications for updates or using a plugin management tool can help in staying informed about new releases.

Q: What general steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

What general steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites? Small business owners can secure their WordPress sites by regularly updating all components, including the WordPress core, themes, and plugins. Using strong, unique passwords for all accounts and implementing two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security. Regularly backing up the website ensures that it can be restored in case of an attack or technical issue. Additionally, installing a security plugin that monitors for malware and vulnerabilities can provide ongoing protection. For those who may not have the time or expertise, considering managed WordPress hosting services can be a worthwhile investment for handling security and maintenance tasks.

By Your WP Guy | January 9, 2024

Plugin Name: List Category Posts

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: list-category-posts
Software Status: Active
Software Author: fernandobt
Software Downloads: 3,740,714
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: January 9, 2024
Patched Versions: 0.89.4
Affected Versions: <= 0.89.3

Vulnerability Details:

Name: List Category Posts <= 0.89.3
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-6994
CVSS Score: 6.5
Publicly Published: January 9, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The List Category Posts plugin for WordPress, in versions up to and including 0.89.3, is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through the plugin's 'catlist' shortcode. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping of user-supplied attributes, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level or higher permissions to inject malicious web scripts into pages.

Summary:

The List Category Posts plugin for WordPress contains a vulnerability in versions up to and including 0.89.3, which allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks via the 'catlist' shortcode. This issue has been resolved in the updated version 0.89.4.

Detailed Overview:

This Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability presents a significant risk, particularly for websites that rely heavily on user-contributed content. The flaw lies in the 'catlist' shortcode, where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping could let attackers inject harmful scripts. These scripts could execute on the browsers of site visitors, leading to potential data theft, session hijacking, or other malicious activities.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are encouraged to update the List Category Posts plugin to the patched version 0.89.4 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your website for any unusual script executions or unexpected content changes.
Alternate Plugins: While the vulnerability has been patched, users may consider alternate plugins that offer similar functionality as an added precaution.
Stay Updated: Always ensure that your WordPress plugins are up-to-date to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action by the developers of List Category Posts to address the Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability highlights the ongoing necessity of timely software updates. Users are advised to install version 0.89.4 or later to secure their WordPress sites against this specific threat. This incident serves as a reminder for all WordPress site owners, especially small businesses, of the critical importance of regular plugin maintenance and cybersecurity vigilance.

References:

Introduction:

In today's digital landscape, the security of online platforms is a paramount concern, especially for small business owners who rely on these platforms for their operations. The recent discovery of the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability in the List Category Posts plugin for WordPress is a stark reminder of the continuous need for vigilance and timely updates in software security. This vulnerability highlights the potential risks associated with outdated software and the importance of proactive security measures to protect websites from malicious attacks.

About the Plugin:

List Category Posts, a popular WordPress plugin developed by fernandobt, is widely used with over 3.7 million downloads and 100,000 active installs. It provides a convenient way to list posts by category through a shortcode, making it a valuable tool for content management on WordPress sites. Despite its usefulness, the plugin became susceptible to a significant security vulnerability in versions up to and including 0.89.3.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in List Category Posts poses significant risks, especially for websites that rely heavily on user-contributed content. Attackers can exploit this flaw to inject malicious scripts, leading to potential data theft, unauthorized access, and the compromise of visitor trust. Such vulnerabilities are particularly concerning for small businesses, where a security breach can have far-reaching consequences, including reputational damage and loss of customer confidence.

Remediation Steps:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 0.89.4 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly monitor your website for unusual script executions or content changes.
Alternate Plugins: Consider alternate plugins offering similar functionalities as an added precaution.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all WordPress plugins to protect against vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The prompt response by the developers in addressing the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability in the List Category Posts plugin underscores the critical role of timely software updates in maintaining web security. For small business owners, who often face time constraints, staying on top of these updates is crucial for protecting their digital assets. Automated update features, regular security audits, and possibly seeking assistance from managed WordPress hosting services can be effective strategies to maintain website security with minimal time investment. Ultimately, being proactive in cybersecurity is essential to safeguard the integrity and trustworthiness of any online presence.

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.

List Category Posts Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2023-6994 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What exactly is CVE-2023-6994?

CVE-2023-6994 is the identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the List Category Posts plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability is categorized as Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via Shortcode and was discovered in versions of the plugin up to and including 0.89.3.

The vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes in the 'catlist' shortcode. It allows authenticated users with contributor-level or higher permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts, potentially compromising the security of the website and its users.

How does the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

The CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affects WordPress websites by exposing them to potential Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This means that attackers with sufficient access privileges could exploit the vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

These scripts can run in the browsers of website visitors, leading to various malicious activities such as stealing user data, hijacking user sessions, or defacing the website. Such attacks not only compromise the website's security but can also damage its reputation and erode user trust.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, often abbreviated as Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into a website, which are then stored on the server. When other users visit the affected pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers.

This type of attack is particularly dangerous because it can affect multiple users long after the initial script injection. It can lead to data breaches, session hijacking, and other security issues for website visitors.

Why is it important to update the List Category Posts plugin?

Updating the List Category Posts plugin is crucial to safeguard your WordPress website against the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability. This vulnerability, if exploited, can lead to serious security breaches. Updating to the latest version, which contains a patch for this vulnerability, is the most effective way to protect your site.

By keeping the plugin updated, you ensure that the latest security fixes are in place, reducing the risk of cyber attacks and protecting both your website and its users from potential harm.

What are the risks of not updating plugins in WordPress?

Not updating plugins in WordPress can expose your website to various security vulnerabilities, as outdated plugins are often targeted by attackers. These vulnerabilities can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and even a complete site takeover.

Moreover, outdated plugins may not function correctly with newer versions of WordPress or other updated plugins, leading to compatibility issues or broken functionality on your site. Regular updates are essential for maintaining both the security and smooth operation of your website.

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994?

To check if your WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994, verify the version of your List Category Posts plugin. If your site is running a version of the plugin that is 0.89.3 or older, it is vulnerable to this security issue.

You can check the plugin version by going to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard. It's recommended to update the plugin immediately if it's not on the latest version, which contains the security patch.

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

If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the List Category Posts plugin to the latest version to close the security gap. Then, perform a thorough scan of your website using a reputable security tool to identify and remove any malicious scripts or content.

You should also change all user passwords and review user roles and permissions as a precaution. If needed, consult with a cybersecurity professional for a more in-depth investigation and recovery assistance.

Are there alternative plugins to List Category Posts?

Yes, there are alternative plugins to List Category Posts that offer similar functionality for listing posts by categories using shortcodes. When looking for alternatives, consider the features you need, the plugin's security history, and its compatibility with your current WordPress version.

It's important to research and read reviews before installing a new plugin. Remember, even alternative plugins should be kept up-to-date for security reasons.

How often are WordPress plugins typically updated?

The frequency of WordPress plugin updates varies based on the plugin. Some are updated frequently, especially if they are actively maintained and have a large user base. Others may receive updates less often.

It’s important for website owners to regularly check for updates, as these can include critical security patches, bug fixes, and new features. Setting up notifications for updates or using a plugin management tool can help in staying informed about new releases.

What general steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

Small business owners can secure their WordPress sites by regularly updating all components, including the WordPress core, themes, and plugins. Using strong, unique passwords for all accounts and implementing two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security.

Regularly backing up the website ensures that it can be restored in case of an attack or technical issue. Additionally, installing a security plugin that monitors for malware and vulnerabilities can provide ongoing protection. For those who may not have the time or expertise, considering managed WordPress hosting services can be a worthwhile investment for handling security and maintenance tasks.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2023-6994, List Category Posts, online safety., Plugin Vulnerability, small business cybersecurity, Stored Cross-Site Scripting, Web Security, Website Maintenance, wordpress security, WordPress Updates

Plugin Name: List Category Posts

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Introduction:

About the Plugin:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

List Category Posts Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2023-6994 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What exactly is CVE-2023-6994?

How does the CVE-2023-6994 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

Why is it important to update the List Category Posts plugin?

What are the risks of not updating plugins in WordPress?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-6994?

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

Are there alternative plugins to List Category Posts?

How often are WordPress plugins typically updated?

What general steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

What general steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

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