CVE-2023-47698 - How Incorrect Access Controls in Artisan Workshop Japanized For WooCommerce Led to a Serious Authorization Vulnerability

Summary:
A critical security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-47698, was found in certain versions of the “Japanized For WooCommerce” plugin for WordPress. This flaw allowed unauthorized users to access sensitive functions because of missing authorization checks, opening the door to malicious exploitation. In this deep-dive, we’ll explain what the vulnerability is, who’s affected, how an attacker could exploit it, and how you can protect your WooCommerce store.

What is CVE-2023-47698?

CVE-2023-47698 is a vulnerability caused by missing authorization checks in the Japanized For WooCommerce plugin—a popular extension designed to localize WooCommerce for Japanese storefronts. The affected versions include all releases up to and including 2.6.4.

The problem: Certain administrative endpoints or actions inside the plugin could be triggered by unauthorized users, due to misconfigured access controls. If left unpatched, attackers could exploit these functions to change settings, expose sensitive data, or modify store content.

The Japanized For WooCommerce plugin

- Plugin versions n/a through 2.6.4

- Typical users

- Online stores using WooCommerce and the Japanized plugin for Japanese localization or advanced eCommerce features.

Technical Details

At the core, the vulnerability is about Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels. Some administrative AJAX actions or internal plugin functions were registered without proper current_user_can() checks—meaning, anybody, even not logged in users, could access them.

Here’s a simplified example of vulnerable code

// BAD: Missing proper capability check
add_action('wp_ajax_my_ja_wc_settings_update', 'my_ja_wc_settings_update_func');
add_action('wp_ajax_nopriv_my_ja_wc_settings_update', 'my_ja_wc_settings_update_func');

function my_ja_wc_settings_update_func() {
    // No check for logged-in user or capability
    update_option('ja_woocommerce_setting', $_POST['setting']);
    wp_send_json_success();
}

Any attacker who knows the AJAX action name can POST new settings and compromise the store.

Note: The actual plugin's code and endpoints might differ, but the flaw works similarly.

Real Exploit Scenario

Let’s say an attacker finds your website running a vulnerable version. They prepare a simple HTTP POST request:

curl -X POST https://yourstore.com/wp-admin/admin-ajax.php \
  -d "action=my_ja_wc_settings_update&setting=malicious_value"

References

- NVD NIST CVE-2023-47698 Entry
- WPScan Advisory
- Japanized For WooCommerce – WordPress Plugin Page

}

// Update settings securely
}

Conclusion

CVE-2023-47698 is a classic but dangerous example of what happens when plugins skip essential security steps like access control checks. Luckily, with fast patching and good security habits, you can keep your WooCommerce business safe.

If your online store uses Japanized For WooCommerce, act now: update, audit, and keep security best practices front and center.

Have questions or want to check if your store is vulnerable? Comment below or reach out through our contact page!

Timeline

Published on: 12/09/2024 13:15:29 UTC