CVE-2023-27420 in Arya Multipurpose Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/16/2023
Unauth. Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Everest Themes Arya Multipurpose theme <= 1.0.5 versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/16/2023
This vulnerability represents an unauthenticated reflected cross-site scripting flaw that affects the Everest Themes Arya Multipurpose WordPress theme version 1.0.5 and earlier. The issue stems from insufficient input validation and output escaping mechanisms within the theme's codebase, specifically in parameters that are directly reflected back to users without proper sanitization. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious URLs containing crafted script payloads that get executed in the context of a victim's browser when they access the compromised page.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which defines cross-site scripting as a code injection attack where malicious scripts are injected into otherwise benign and trusted websites. The flaw occurs when user-supplied input is not properly escaped or filtered before being rendered back to the browser, creating an environment where attacker-controlled code can execute with the privileges of the victim user. This particular vulnerability manifests in the theme's handling of query parameters that are reflected without adequate security measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks including session hijacking, credential theft, and redirection to malicious sites. An attacker could craft a phishing link that appears legitimate to victims, potentially leading to unauthorized access to user accounts or data exfiltration. The reflected nature of the vulnerability means that successful exploitation requires social engineering to get users to click on malicious links, but once clicked, the attack executes automatically in the victim's browser context.
From a security framework perspective, this vulnerability demonstrates weaknesses in the principle of least privilege and proper input validation practices that align with NIST SP 800-53 requirements for secure coding practices. The issue also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566 which describes social engineering tactics used to gain initial access through phishing campaigns. Organizations using affected theme versions face increased risk of user compromise and potential lateral movement within their networks if users are tricked into clicking malicious links.
Mitigation strategies should include immediate patching to version 1.0.6 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms. Administrators should also implement additional security measures such as web application firewalls, content security policies, and regular security audits of third-party themes and plugins. Network monitoring should be enhanced to detect suspicious traffic patterns associated with known XSS attack vectors, and user education programs should be implemented to reduce the success rate of social engineering attacks that exploit this vulnerability.