CVE-2023-40211 Scanner

The PickPlugins Post Grid Combo is a WordPress plugin used by web developers and content creators to display posts in grid formats. It's often favored for its flexibility and compatibility with multiple block types, making it a versatile choice for a variety of websites. Particularly useful in Gutenberg environments, the plugin allows for intricate post display designs without needing to write custom code. Webmasters and site owners utilize it to enhance user engagement by presenting related content attractively. It is predominantly used within WordPress environments, working to enhance post visibility and customization options. By integrating diverse layouts and navigation functionalities, it aids in achieving a professional, streamlined content presentation.

The vulnerability in Post Grid Combo concerns an information disclosure issue which arises from improper handling of REST API requests. Unauthorized actors can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to sensitive user information stored within the WordPress environment. It primarily exposes data through improperly secured API endpoints, thereby violating user privacy. As the exposure can occur without user interaction, it poses a significant threat to data confidentiality. This issue affects versions up to 2.2.50, where sensitive information can be extracted through unauthorized remote requests. Mitigating this requires updating the plugin to a version beyond 2.2.50 or applying relevant security patches.

Technical details reveal that the vulnerability is rooted in the REST API interactions where attackers can craft specific requests towards vulnerable endpoints. The endpoints found at '/wp-json/wp/v2/users' expose user details due to insufficient access controls. Additionally, API calls made to '/wp-json/post-grid/v2/get_user_meta' can be manipulated to retrieve sensitive metadata like user emails. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability utilize HTTP GET and POST methods to extract data via the exposed API endpoints, which fail to authenticate requests properly. These endpoints fail to secure the JSON responses adequately, resulting in exposure to unauthorized users. The main parameters affected include 'id' and 'meta_key', allowing attackers to iterate through user databases methodically.

If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to significant repercussions such as unauthorized data access and potential information theft. Attackers may capitalize on the exposed sensitive information to conduct phishing attacks or other social engineering feats. The disclosure creates a pathway for privacy breaches, impacting users' trust and site reputation adversely. Furthermore, sensitive information can be used to escalate privileges or gain unauthorized insights into web application operations. Businesses relying on confidential data, therefore, face heightened risks of compliance violations and financial damages. Overall, without adequate remediation, this vulnerability can serve as a gateway to more severe security risks.

REFERENCES

• https://patchstack.com/database/vulnerability/post-grid/wordpress-post-grid-combo-plugin-2-2-50-sensitive-data-exposure-vulnerability?_s_id=cve
• https://plugins.trac.wordpress.org/changeset/2947951/post-grid/trunk/src/functions-rest.php
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-40211