CVE-2023-4148 Scanner

The Ditty WordPress plugin is a tool designed for adding scrolling news tickers to websites powered by WordPress. It's developed by Metaphor Creations and is widely used for displaying dynamic content, such as latest news, announcements, or promotions. This plugin enhances user engagement and provides website administrators with a flexible way to showcase updates directly on their web pages. Before version 3.1.25, Ditty was found to be vulnerable to a security flaw that could compromise website integrity. It is particularly popular among news sites, blogs, and e-commerce platforms looking to draw attention to specific information.

The Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in versions of the Ditty WordPress plugin before 3.1.25 arises from insufficient data sanitization and escaping. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability by embedding malicious scripts in specific plugin parameters or URLs, which are then executed in the context of the user's browser. This type of vulnerability is especially dangerous when used against users with high privileges, such as administrators, as it can lead to unauthorized access or data theft. The exploitation of this vulnerability depends on the interaction of a user with a crafted link or input field.

This XSS vulnerability is present in the Ditty WordPress plugin's handling of certain parameters and generated URLs, which are not properly sanitized or escaped before being outputted back into the page. Specifically, the vulnerability is exploited through crafted requests to the plugin's export function, allowing an attacker to inject and execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of the administrator's session. The technical mechanism of this vulnerability involves manipulating input fields or URLs that are reflected back onto the web page without adequate checking, creating a vector for script injection. Attackers could leverage this to perform actions on behalf of the administrator or steal sensitive information. The issue was addressed in version 3.1.25 of the plugin, where proper sanitization and escaping measures were implemented.

If exploited, this XSS vulnerability could have several detrimental effects on the affected website and its users. Malicious actors could gain unauthorized access to user sessions, steal personal information, or hijack admin accounts. The vulnerability also opens the door to further attacks, such as phishing or spreading malware to visitors of the website. For administrators, this could lead to loss of control over the website, data breaches, and potential reputational damage. It highlights the importance of ensuring web applications are secure against such injection attacks.

By leveraging the security scanning services provided by Security for Everyone, you can proactively identify and address vulnerabilities like the Cross-Site Scripting flaw in the Ditty WordPress plugin. Our platform offers comprehensive scans that help uncover configuration errors, security vulnerabilities, and other critical issues, ensuring your digital assets remain protected. Members benefit from real-time alerts, detailed reports, and expert guidance on remediation, enhancing your cyber defense posture. Joining Security for Everyone empowers you to stay one step ahead of cyber threats, safeguarding your online presence against potential exploits.

References

• https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/aa39de78-55b3-4237-84db-6fdf6820c58d
• https://nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2023-4148