CVE-2023-0447 in My YouTube Channel Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/23/2023
The My YouTube Channel plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to authorization bypass due to a missing capability check on the clear_all_cache function in versions up to, and including, 3.0.12.1. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level permissions and above, to clear the plugin's cache.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-0447 affects the My YouTube Channel plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 3.0.12.1. This authorization bypass flaw stems from a critical missing capability check within the plugin's codebase, creating a significant security risk for WordPress installations that utilize this particular plugin. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it allows authenticated attackers who possess subscriber-level permissions or higher to exploit a function designed for cache management, thereby undermining the intended access controls and potentially disrupting normal plugin operations.
The technical flaw manifests in the clear_all_cache function which fails to implement proper capability verification before executing its core functionality. This missing authorization check means that any user with subscriber privileges or greater can invoke this function, effectively granting them the ability to clear the plugin's cache system. From a cybersecurity perspective, this represents a violation of the principle of least privilege, where users should only have access to functions and data necessary for their specific role within the system. The vulnerability falls under CWE-284 which specifically addresses improper access control mechanisms, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation through unauthorized access to system resources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple cache clearing operations, as it can potentially disrupt content delivery and user experience on WordPress sites. When an attacker clears the plugin's cache, it may result in delayed content loading, broken YouTube channel integrations, or temporary loss of cached video data that could affect site performance. Additionally, this vulnerability could be leveraged as part of a broader attack strategy where an attacker might attempt to cause service disruption or gather information about the site's caching mechanisms. The fact that the vulnerability affects authenticated users means that it could be exploited by malicious insiders or compromised accounts, making it particularly dangerous for sites with multiple user roles and varying permission levels.
Organizations and WordPress administrators should prioritize immediate mitigation by updating to the latest version of the My YouTube Channel plugin where this vulnerability has been addressed. The recommended approach involves implementing proper capability checks in the clear_all_cache function to ensure that only users with appropriate administrative privileges can execute cache clearing operations. Security measures should also include monitoring for unauthorized cache clearing activities and implementing additional access controls for plugin management functions. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes should be conducted to identify similar authorization bypass vulnerabilities, with particular attention to functions that modify system state or access sensitive data. This vulnerability underscores the importance of thorough code review processes and proper implementation of access control mechanisms in web applications, particularly those handling user-generated content or system-level operations.