The Widgets for Social Photo Feed plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized access of data and modification of data due to a missing capability check on the '/trustindex_feed_hook_instagram/troubleshooting' and '/trustindex_feed_hook_instagram/submit-data' REST API endpoints in all versions up to, and including, 1.8. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to access and update plugin settings.
With a CVSS score of 6.5, this vulnerability is classified as medium severity. It poses a risk to organizations that utilize this plugin, as it can lead to unauthorized data manipulation and compromise the integrity of the application.
Given the potential impact, organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability to safeguard their systems from unauthorized access and potential data breaches.
Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, but the lack of a capability check can lead to easy exploitation by attackers, making it critical for organizations to address this issue promptly.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability allows unauthorized access and modification of data due to a missing capability check on specific REST API endpoints. The affected plugin is the Widgets for Social Photo Feed plugin for WordPress, with the issue impacting all versions up to and including 1.8.
The CVSS score of 6.5 indicates a medium severity level, which requires organizations to be attentive to potential risks associated with unauthorized data access.
This vulnerability is classified under CWE-200, indicating information exposure.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is the lack of appropriate capability checks for access control on REST API endpoints. Attackers can exploit this oversight to manipulate settings without any required privileges.
The attack vector is network-based, with low complexity and no required user interaction. This means that attackers can exploit the vulnerability remotely, making it a significant risk.
The vulnerability has a low impact on confidentiality, but it can lead to low integrity and availability impacts, allowing attackers to modify settings or disrupt service.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Risk to organizations includes the potential for unauthorized access and alteration of critical plugin settings, which can lead to further exploitation or disruption of service.
The blast radius of this vulnerability is considerable due to its presence in a widely used WordPress plugin. Organizations utilizing this plugin should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation.
With the CVSS score indicating medium severity, organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle to mitigate the risk.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions prior to vendor patch are affected, specifically up to and including version 1.8 of the Widgets for Social Photo Feed plugin.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The vendor has released an update to address this vulnerability. Ensure that the Widgets for Social Photo Feed plugin is updated to the latest version.
In addition to updating, organizations should consider implementing access controls to limit unauthorized access to sensitive settings.
Detection Guidance
Monitor logs for unusual access patterns, particularly around the affected REST API endpoints. Behavioral anomalies and unexpected changes to plugin settings should be investigated promptly.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of this vulnerability lies in its potential to compromise WordPress installations widely. Security teams should recognize the importance of regular plugin updates and audits to mitigate risks associated with third-party dependencies.
This case highlights the necessity of thorough security testing during development and before deployment to ensure that similar vulnerabilities are not present in other plugins.
For further guidance, organizations can refer to our detailed resources on penetration testing methodology and vulnerability management program design to strengthen their security posture.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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