WP Shortcodes Plugin Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-6488 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

What exactly is the vulnerability?

The vulnerability is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) issue affecting versions 7.0.1 and below of the WP Shortcodes Plugin. Stored XSS vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious JavaScript or HTML code into a web application. The malicious code then executes when ordinary users later load the compromised page. In this case, the vulnerability arises because the plugin fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data before storing it and displaying it back to users.

By exploiting the vulnerable shortcodes, attackers can inject arbitrary scripts that will execute for any visitor to compromised pages. This exposes site visitors to potential credential theft, phishing attacks to steal sensitive data, or other browser-based attacks.

How serious is this vulnerability?

This vulnerability is quite serious, with a CVSS severity score of 5.4 out of 10, indicating a medium risk level. While the vulnerability requires some level of access privileges, attackers gaining admin access could carry out extensive site attacks. Additionally, depending on the importance of the data on a given site, the potential impact rises substantially if attackers can steal visitor credentials or trick them into providing sensitive personal or financial data.

Could my site be at risk or already compromised?

If your site runs version 7.0.1 or earlier of Shortcodes Ultimate, then it has definitely been vulnerable. Version 7.0.2 patched the issue, so upgrading will close the vulnerability. To check if pages have already been compromised, look for any unauthorized shortcodes recently added, especially instances of su_button, su_members or su_tabs. Also closely monitor site traffic and user behavior for signs of compromise like unexpected login attempts.

How can I check if my site uses this plugin?

Log in to your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins, and review the list of both active and inactive plugins. If “Shortcodes Ultimate” appears in the list, your site utilizes the plugin. Click on it for additional version details. If you have multiple sites, check each one individually. Developers recommend searching code files as well to see if deprecated versions have been left dormant.

I use the vulnerable plugin. What should I do?

Immediately update Shortcodes Ultimate to version 7.0.2, which patches this vulnerability. Delete any suspicious shortcodes that may have been injected while your site was vulnerable. Strongly consider enabling additional security plugins to monitor changes and limit access. Verify no other plugins have related vulnerabilities. Going forward, stick to a regular schedule for updating WordPress, themes and plugins.

Are other shortcode plugins also vulnerable?

While this specific issue impacts Shortcodes Ultimate, other plugins may have vulnerabilities too. In general, broad-function plugins like those providing shortcode libraries tend to have larger attack surfaces. Evaluate your risk tolerance for popular plugins against the functionality they provide. Keeping all plugins updated remains the best defense. Monitor security forums for emerging threats related to any plugins deemed critical for your needs.

How can I prevent future threats like this?

Unfortunately vulnerabilities can arise in even reputable, well-maintained plugins. Prevention starts with limiting plugins to only those providing essential site functionality, keeping all software updated, using available security tools, and monitoring for signs of compromise. Automated vulnerability scanning and one-click updates are extremely valuable. For recovering quickly though, backup your WordPress site and database so restoring a known good state is straightforward.

Are other content management systems more secure than WordPress?

WordPress powers over 40% of all websites, making it an obvious target for attackers. However, vulnerabilities occur in virtually all web software to some degree. The content management system (CMS) alone does not determine security posture. Proper configuration and limiting extensions, paired with ongoing maintenance and monitoring, allows secure WordPress sites. For most, the ease-of-use and power of WordPress outweighs Software may have vulnerabilities unknown to users.

Isn’t keeping WordPress secure too complex for average users?

WordPress security can certainly be challenging, especially for non-technical users. However, provider-managed WordPress hosting takes the burden off site owners by configuring secure defaults, limiting threats, and streamlining updates. Typically for a few dollars more per month, managed hosts perform scans to identify vulnerabilities, push one-click updates for WordPress and plugins, provide backups to easily undo problems, and give 24/7 support.

I recently updated Shortcodes Ultimate but still feel worried. What should I do?

Caution is warranted given the seriousness of this vulnerability. Reach out to your web developer or managed host for additional insight on your site’s status. Voice any remaining concerns so they can assess your specific configuration for other potential issues. Implementing comprehensive WordPress security helps ease worries something else may have been overlooked. Make use of available support channels as well when uncertain how to evaluate risks posed by vulnerabilities in the complex content management ecosystem.