CVE-2023-47874 - Missing Authorization Vulnerability in Perfmatters up to Version 2.1.6

Introduction:
A missing authorization vulnerability has been discovered in the Perfmatters plugin, affecting versions up to 2.1.6. The vulnerability allows an attacker to exploit restricted functions within the plugin, bypassing proper authorization channels. As a consequence, unauthorized parties can potentially gain access to secure site data and potentially compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected website.

This blog post delves into the details of this vulnerability, known as CVE-2023-47874, providing code snippets, links to original references, and exploit information. Understanding this vulnerability is crucial for webmasters and developers who rely on the Perfmatters plugin, as it can impact their site's security and user experience.

Affected Versions

This issue affects Perfmatters: from n/a through 2.1.6.

Code Snippet

The vulnerability lies in the plugin's administration menu, where a proper authorization check is missing when calling specific functions. Below is a code snippet highlighting the issue:

function perfmatters_menu() {
    add_options_page('perfmatters', 'Perfmatters', 'manage_options', 'perfmatters', 'perfmatters_admin');
}
add_action('admin_menu', 'perfmatters_menu');

function perfmatters_admin() {
    if(!current_user_can('manage_options')) {
        wp_die(__('You do not have sufficient permissions to access this page.'));
    }
    // Missing authorization check for sensitive functions
    if(isset($_GET['reset']) && $_GET['reset'] == 'true') {
        delete_option('perfmatters');
    } elseif(isset($_POST['submit']) && isset($_POST['perfmatters'])) {
        update_option('perfmatters', $_POST['perfmatters']);
    }
    // Rest of the code
}

Original References

- National Vulnerability Database (NVD) entry: CVE-2023-47874
- Vulnerability Report: Missing Authorization Check in Perfmatters

Exploit Details

The missing authorization check allows attackers to access restricted functions by crafting special HTTP requests to the target application. An attacker could make a request with the following parameters:

GET /wp-admin/admin.php?page=perfmatters&reset=true

With this request, an attacker can reset the Perfmatters options, removing any existing configurations. Also, the attacker could potentially tamper with other functions available in the plugin. Furthermore, this vulnerability does not require an authenticated user, so an attacker can simply send a request to exploit it.

Mitigation

To secure your site from this vulnerability, it is recommended to update the Perfmatters plugin to the latest version. Developers have already fixed the vulnerability in recent releases. Make sure to read the plugin's documentation and changelog to understand changes and any new features.

Additionally, it is essential to regularly update your site's themes, plugins, and core components, as this practice significantly decreases the chances of successful exploitation by attackers. Lastly, consider implementing robust security practices, such as using strong passwords, two-factor authentication, and monitoring your site for unauthorized access or suspicious activities.

Conclusion

CVE-2023-47874 is a concerning vulnerability in the Perfmatters plugin, as it allows unauthorized parties to access secured functions. By understanding the nature of this issue and applying the recommended mitigation steps, webmasters and developers using Perfmatters can ensure their site remains secure and protected.

Timeline

Published on: 02/29/2024 06:15:45 UTC
Last modified on: 02/29/2024 13:49:29 UTC