CVE-2023-7246 Scanner

The System Dashboard is a popular WordPress plugin used by web administrators to monitor various statistics regarding the performance and health of their websites. Developed to provide detailed insights into different metrics, it’s implemented across a range of WordPress sites globally, frequently in a multisite environment. The tool is essential for site owners and administrators who want a real-time view of their system logs and other dynamic data. It enables efficient tracking of web traffic, server stats, and plugin health indicators for multiple sites managed from a single dashboard. The plugin is an invaluable resource for ensuring optimal site uptime and performance, acting as an integral part of website management strategies. Its importance is underscored by the critical data it processes and presents, making strong security measures imperative to safeguard the integrity of the monitored sites.

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of injection security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into content from otherwise trusted websites. It occurs when a web application improperly stores malicious scripts submitted by an attacker in user input fields, which get executed in users’ browsers who visit those web pages. In the context of the System Dashboard plugin, the vulnerability exists in its handling of unsanitized parameters, making it susceptible to such injections through the X-Forwarded-For header. This particular flaw can lead to unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users or the execution of malicious scripts in browsers viewing affected pages. The widespread implications of XSS attacks, including potential data theft and session hijacking, make it a significant security concern. Administrators leveraging this WordPress plugin need to understand the risks and mitigate against potential exploitation which could compromise site integrity and user data.

Technically, the vulnerability in the System Dashboard plugin becomes apparent in its handling of certain parameters without proper sanitization and escaping. The XSS can be triggered through the X-Forwarded-For HTTP request header where attackers inject malicious JavaScript. On submission, the unsanitized script executes within the browser's DOM context, potentially giving attackers control over the session data or user actions. A successful exploit would allow the malicious script to manipulate web application functionalities, causing significant security risks. The specific vulnerable end point exists on the wp-admin page, where the injected script can execute and make unauthorized actions. As a result, it's imperative for administrators working with multisite configurations to update the plugin and patch the vulnerability to eliminate exploitation risk.

The exploitation of Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities, like that found in the System Dashboard plugin, can lead to a range of harmful outcomes. Once exploited, attackers may execute arbitrary javascript in users’ browsers, potentially stealing sensitive data like cookies and session identifiers. Beyond data theft, attackers can manipulate site content, redirect users to malicious sites, or even perform actions on behalf of authenticated users, compromising user trust. Long-term, such vulnerabilities can degrade site integrity, adversely affect user satisfaction, and significantly tarnish a webmaster's reputation. To prevent these outcomes, it's crucial to patch affected systems promptly and employ robust input sanitation practices for future security assurance.

REFERENCES

• https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/7413d5ec-10a7-4cb8-ac1c-4ef554751518/
• https://research.cleantalk.org/cve-2023-7246/
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-7246