If you are using the popular DoLogin Security plugin for WordPress, listen up. A critical vulnerability tracked as CVE-2023-46608 was recently disclosed, and it could make your website an open target if you run affected versions (any version up to and including 3.7.1).
In this post, I’ll break down exactly what this vulnerability is, how attackers can use it, and what you need to do right away. I’ll also share original references and sample exploit code to give you a real sense of the risk.
What is CVE-2023-46608?
CVE-2023-46608 is a Missing Authorization vulnerability, which means the plugin fails to check if a user should be allowed to perform a sensitive action. In DoLogin Security, this problem is caused by improper or missing access control checks on certain actions and settings. Simply put, malicious users can access functions they should not, depending on your configuration.
This issue affects every version of DoLogin Security up to and including 3.7.1.
How Does the Attack Work?
Normally, security plugins ensure that only users with the right permissions (like admins) can configure critical security options. However, due to this bug, some AJAX actions and endpoint functions in DoLogin Security do not check user roles or permissions. That means:
Live Exploitation Example
Suppose the vulnerable plugin exposes an AJAX action at /wp-admin/admin-ajax.php called dologin_unlock_ip that should only be accessible by admins, but is missing an is_admin() or current_user_can() permission check. Here’s a simple exploit using curl:
curl -X POST "https://YOUR-SITE.com/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php"; \
-d "action=dologin_unlock_ip" \
-d "ip=ATTACKER_IP"
If this endpoint is unprotected, any logged-in user (or even an unauthenticated user, if no nonce check is in place!) can reset blocked IP lists or unlock themselves and others, bypassing your brute-force protection.
PHP Example: Suppose you find code like this inside the plugin
add_action('wp_ajax_dologin_unlock_ip', 'dologin_unlock_ip');
function dologin_unlock_ip() {
// MISSING: current_user_can('manage_options') check!
$ip = $_POST['ip'];
// unlock the IP (logic here)
echo "Unlocked IP: " . $ip;
wp_die();
}
Because the permission check is missing, anyone can call this function.
Why Is This Dangerous?
DoLogin Security is relied on to protect WordPress sites from brute force logins, unauthorized access, and login auditing. If attackers can tamper with its settings or functions:
Has This Been Fixed?
At the time of writing, version 3.7.1 and below are affected. Always check the plugin changelog and official CVE database entry for updates.
Update: It’s strongly advised to update to the latest plugin version as soon as a patch is released, or consider disabling/uninstalling if you cannot update.
What Should You Do?
1. Check Your Plugin Version
Go to WordPress Admin → Plugins → DoLogin Security. If you are using 3.7.1 or below, you are at risk.
2. Update ASAP
Once a fix is available, update immediately from the official plugin page.
3. Disable Until Fixed
If no update is available, consider deactivating the plugin *temporarily*.
4. Monitor Your Logs
Check for suspicious activity, such as mass login attempts or unauthorized changes to plugin settings.
5. Audit User Permissions
Limit admin access and ensure only trusted users have high-level rights.
References and Further Reading
- Original Plugin Page
- CVE-2023-46608 NVD Entry
- WPScan Advisory
- Plugin Changelog
Conclusion
CVE-2023-46608 highlights why security plugins need robust access controls. Even if you trust your security solution, a single misplaced permission check can put everything at risk.
If you use DoLogin Security, update now and spread the word!
Don’t let a missing authorization check be the weak link in your WordPress armor.
Timeline
Published on: 01/02/2025 12:15:12 UTC