Starbox Vulnerability– the Author Box for Humans – Authenticated (Subscriber+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Job Settings – CVE-2023-6806 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2023-6806?

What is CVE-2023-6806? CVE-2023-6806 refers to a specific security vulnerability identified within the Starbox – the Author Box for Humans WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, which stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin's Job Settings fields. As a result, authenticated users with subscriber-level access or higher can inject malicious scripts that get executed when others view the affected pages. This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on February 6, 2024, and it highlights a significant risk within versions up to and including 3.4.8 of the Starbox plugin. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites using this plugin.

Q: How does CVE-2023-6806 affect WordPress websites?

How does CVE-2023-6806 affect WordPress websites? CVE-2023-6806 poses a security risk to WordPress websites using vulnerable versions of the Starbox plugin by allowing malicious scripts to be stored and executed within the site. This can compromise the site's integrity, manipulate site content, or steal sensitive information from users. The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially damaging the trust users have in the affected website. It underscores the necessity for website administrators to stay vigilant and ensure their site's plugins are regularly updated to mitigate such risks.

Q: What should I do if my site uses an affected version of Starbox?

What should I do if my site uses an affected version of Starbox? If your WordPress site is using an affected version of the Starbox plugin (versions up to 3.4.8), it's imperative to update to the patched version 3.5.0 immediately. This updated version contains fixes that address the CVE-2023-6806 vulnerability, closing the security gap that could be exploited. Besides updating, it's advisable to review your site for any signs of compromise, such as unexpected changes to content or new, unknown user accounts. Strengthening your site's overall security posture with regular audits and security enhancements can further protect against future vulnerabilities.

Q: Can CVE-2023-6806 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

Can CVE-2023-6806 be exploited by any visitor to my site? CVE-2023-6806 requires that the attacker has at least subscriber-level access to the WordPress site to exploit the vulnerability. This means that not just any visitor can exploit the flaw, but it does pose a risk if subscriber accounts are compromised or if attackers can gain such access through other means. This limitation highlights the importance of strong user account management and security practices, including the use of strong passwords and the principle of least privilege when assigning user roles and permissions.

Q: What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2023-6806?

What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2023-6806? Failing to address CVE-2023-6806 can leave your WordPress site vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks, where malicious scripts are injected into your site. These scripts can then be executed by other users, leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and the potential spread of malware. The consequences can extend beyond immediate security breaches to include long-term damage to your site's reputation, loss of user trust, and potential legal ramifications if sensitive user data is compromised. It's crucial to take proactive steps to patch vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-6806 promptly.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised?

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised? To check if your WordPress site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-6806 or any other vulnerability, start by reviewing your site's activity logs for any unusual or unauthorized actions. Look for unexpected changes to content, the creation of new user accounts, or modifications to existing accounts that you did not authorize. Implementing security monitoring tools and plugins can also help detect and alert you to potential security issues. If you suspect your site has been compromised, consider engaging a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough investigation and remediation.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Starbox that do not have this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to Starbox that do not have this vulnerability? There are several alternative plugins to Starbox that offer author box functionality without this specific vulnerability. Alternatives include "Molongui Authorship," "Simple Author Box," and "WP Author Box," among others. Each plugin has its own set of features and security postures. When considering an alternative, it's essential to research the plugin's security history, user reviews, and update frequency. Regular updates and active developer support can be good indicators of a plugin's security commitment.

Q: What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities?

What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities? WordPress plugin developers can prevent similar vulnerabilities by adhering to security best practices such as validating and sanitizing all user inputs, implementing proper capability checks, and using WordPress's built-in functions for handling data securely. Regular security audits and code reviews can also help identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited. Engaging with the wider WordPress security community and staying informed about common vulnerabilities and their mitigations can further enhance a plugin's security posture.

Q: How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated as frequently as new versions are released, especially when those updates include security patches. Developers regularly release updates to add new features, fix bugs, and address security issues. Setting up automatic updates for plugins can ensure that you're always using the latest version, but it's also wise to monitor your site after updates for any potential issues that may arise. Staying vigilant and proactive in maintaining plugin updates is key to securing your WordPress site.

Q: Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins is crucial because vulnerabilities can be quickly exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or compromise the integrity of your site. In the context of e-commerce or business sites, the stakes are even higher due to the financial transactions and personal customer information involved. Regularly updating your plugins and themes, employing security best practices, and monitoring your site for unusual activity are key steps in protecting your site from potential threats. Proactive security measures help safeguard your online presence, ensuring a secure and trustworthy experience for your users.

By Your WP Guy | February 6, 2024

Plugin Name: Starbox – the Author Box for Humans

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: starbox
Software Status: Active
Software Author: cifi
Software Downloads: 449,615
Active Installs: 50,000
Last Updated: February 13, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.5.0
Affected Versions: <= 3.4.8

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Starbox <= 3.4.8
Title: Authenticated (Subscriber+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Job Settings
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-6806
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: February 6, 2024
Researcher: Sh
Description: The Starbox plugin, a popular solution for adding stylish author boxes to WordPress posts, harbors a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in its Job Settings fields. This flaw, present in versions up to and including 3.4.8, arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping. It allows authenticated users with at least subscriber-level access to insert harmful scripts, which are then executed when other users view the affected pages.

Summary:

Starbox – the Author Box for Humans enhances WordPress sites by adding attractive author profiles, but its versions up to 3.4.8 contain a critical security vulnerability. This Stored Cross-Site Scripting issue, addressed in the recent 3.5.0 update, could allow attackers to compromise site integrity and user security through malicious script injection in the Job Settings profile fields.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, identified by security researcher Sh, underscores the importance of stringent security measures in plugin development, especially in areas involving user input. The ability for lower-level users to exploit this vulnerability poses a significant threat, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation. The prompt issuance of a patch in version 3.5.0 by the plugin developers reflects the seriousness of the vulnerability and the need for immediate action by site administrators.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 3.5.0 immediately to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your site for unexpected content changes or user reports of suspicious behavior, which may indicate exploitation.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version resolves this issue, exploring alternative author box plugins can provide additional security and functionality options.
Stay Updated: Ensuring that all WordPress plugins and themes are regularly updated is crucial for maintaining site security and protecting against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in the Starbox plugin highlights the critical role of timely software updates in maintaining web security. Users are encouraged to promptly upgrade to the patched version to secure their WordPress installations. This incident serves as a reminder of the continuous need for vigilance and proactive security measures in the digital landscape, especially for small business owners who may not have extensive resources dedicated to website maintenance.

References:

In today's digital age, where WordPress powers a significant portion of the internet, the plugins that enhance its functionality are as crucial as they are numerous. Yet, this vast ecosystem is not without its perils, as demonstrated by the recent discovery of a security flaw in the "Starbox – the Author Box for Humans" plugin, designated as CVE-2023-6806. This vulnerability, which affects versions up to 3.4.8, highlights the ongoing battle between functionality and security within the WordPress community.

Plugin Overview:

Starbox, developed by cifi and boasting over 449,615 downloads, is a popular plugin designed to add visually appealing author boxes to WordPress posts. It's a favorite among 50,000 active installations for personalizing author bios with photos, descriptions, and social media links, thereby enhancing the user experience and connection with the audience.

Vulnerability Insights:

CVE-2023-6806 is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability found within the Job Settings fields of the Starbox plugin. Due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, authenticated users with subscriber-level access can inject arbitrary web scripts. These scripts are then executed by others viewing the affected pages, posing a risk to both site integrity and user security.

Potential Risks:

The vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation of site content, and potentially, the compromise of sensitive user information. For businesses relying on their WordPress sites for e-commerce or customer engagement, such vulnerabilities can erode trust, damage reputation, and result in significant financial losses.

Remediation Steps:

The developers of Starbox have addressed this vulnerability in the recently released version 3.5.0. Site owners are urged to update to this patched version immediately to mitigate the associated risks. Additionally, regularly monitoring the site for unusual activities and exploring alternate plugins can further enhance security.

Historical Context:

This is not the first time Starbox has encountered security issues, with two previous vulnerabilities reported since January 30, 2024. This pattern underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and the necessity for regular updates.

Concluding Thoughts:

For small business owners, the CVE-2023-6806 vulnerability in Starbox serves as a potent reminder of the critical need for ongoing attention to digital security practices. The swift response by the plugin's developers to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely software updates in protecting WordPress installations. In the bustling digital marketplace, staying informed and proactive in managing plugin vulnerabilities is not just a technical task but a fundamental aspect of maintaining a secure, reliable, and trustworthy 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.

Starbox Vulnerability– the Author Box for Humans – Authenticated (Subscriber+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Job Settings – CVE-2023-6806 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-6806?

CVE-2023-6806 refers to a specific security vulnerability identified within the Starbox – the Author Box for Humans WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, which stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin's Job Settings fields. As a result, authenticated users with subscriber-level access or higher can inject malicious scripts that get executed when others view the affected pages.

This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on February 6, 2024, and it highlights a significant risk within versions up to and including 3.4.8 of the Starbox plugin. Addressing this issue promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites using this plugin.

How does CVE-2023-6806 affect WordPress websites?

CVE-2023-6806 poses a security risk to WordPress websites using vulnerable versions of the Starbox plugin by allowing malicious scripts to be stored and executed within the site. This can compromise the site's integrity, manipulate site content, or steal sensitive information from users.

The exploitation of this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially damaging the trust users have in the affected website. It underscores the necessity for website administrators to stay vigilant and ensure their site's plugins are regularly updated to mitigate such risks.

What should I do if my site uses an affected version of Starbox?

If your WordPress site is using an affected version of the Starbox plugin (versions up to 3.4.8), it's imperative to update to the patched version 3.5.0 immediately. This updated version contains fixes that address the CVE-2023-6806 vulnerability, closing the security gap that could be exploited.

Besides updating, it's advisable to review your site for any signs of compromise, such as unexpected changes to content or new, unknown user accounts. Strengthening your site's overall security posture with regular audits and security enhancements can further protect against future vulnerabilities.

Can CVE-2023-6806 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

CVE-2023-6806 requires that the attacker has at least subscriber-level access to the WordPress site to exploit the vulnerability. This means that not just any visitor can exploit the flaw, but it does pose a risk if subscriber accounts are compromised or if attackers can gain such access through other means.

This limitation highlights the importance of strong user account management and security practices, including the use of strong passwords and the principle of least privilege when assigning user roles and permissions.

What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2023-6806?

Failing to address CVE-2023-6806 can leave your WordPress site vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks, where malicious scripts are injected into your site. These scripts can then be executed by other users, leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and the potential spread of malware.

The consequences can extend beyond immediate security breaches to include long-term damage to your site's reputation, loss of user trust, and potential legal ramifications if sensitive user data is compromised. It's crucial to take proactive steps to patch vulnerabilities like CVE-2023-6806 promptly.

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised?

To check if your WordPress site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-6806 or any other vulnerability, start by reviewing your site's activity logs for any unusual or unauthorized actions. Look for unexpected changes to content, the creation of new user accounts, or modifications to existing accounts that you did not authorize.

Implementing security monitoring tools and plugins can also help detect and alert you to potential security issues. If you suspect your site has been compromised, consider engaging a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough investigation and remediation.

Are there alternative plugins to Starbox that do not have this vulnerability?

There are several alternative plugins to Starbox that offer author box functionality without this specific vulnerability. Alternatives include "Molongui Authorship," "Simple Author Box," and "WP Author Box," among others. Each plugin has its own set of features and security postures.

When considering an alternative, it's essential to research the plugin's security history, user reviews, and update frequency. Regular updates and active developer support can be good indicators of a plugin's security commitment.

What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities?

WordPress plugin developers can prevent similar vulnerabilities by adhering to security best practices such as validating and sanitizing all user inputs, implementing proper capability checks, and using WordPress's built-in functions for handling data securely. Regular security audits and code reviews can also help identify and address potential vulnerabilities before they are exploited.

Engaging with the wider WordPress security community and staying informed about common vulnerabilities and their mitigations can further enhance a plugin's security posture.

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

WordPress plugins should be updated as frequently as new versions are released, especially when those updates include security patches. Developers regularly release updates to add new features, fix bugs, and address security issues.

Setting up automatic updates for plugins can ensure that you're always using the latest version, but it's also wise to monitor your site after updates for any potential issues that may arise. Staying vigilant and proactive in maintaining plugin updates is key to securing your WordPress site.

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins is crucial because vulnerabilities can be quickly exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or compromise the integrity of your site. In the context of e-commerce or business sites, the stakes are even higher due to the financial transactions and personal customer information involved.

Regularly updating your plugins and themes, employing security best practices, and monitoring your site for unusual activity are key steps in protecting your site from potential threats. Proactive security measures help safeguard your online presence, ensuring a secure and trustworthy experience for your users.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2023-6806, cybersecurity best practices, digital security for small business, Plugin Updates, secure author boxes, Starbox plugin vulnerability, Stored Cross-Site Scripting, Website Protection, WordPress plugin maintenance, wordpress security