CVE-2023-2987 in Wordapp Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/31/2023
The Wordapp plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to authorization bypass due to an use of insufficiently unique cryptographic signature on the 'wa_pdx_op_config_set' function in versions up to, and including, 1.6.0. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to the plugin to change the 'validation_token' in the plugin config, providing access to the plugin's remote control functionalities, such as creating an admin access URL, which can be used for privilege escalation.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/09/2026
The vulnerability identified in CVE-2023-2987 affects the Wordapp plugin for WordPress, specifically targeting versions up to and including 1.6.0. This authorization bypass flaw stems from the implementation of insufficiently unique cryptographic signatures within the 'wa_pdx_op_config_set' function, creating a critical security weakness that undermines the plugin's access control mechanisms. The vulnerability represents a significant concern for WordPress administrators and security practitioners as it allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the plugin's configuration settings without proper authentication.
The technical flaw manifests through the use of weak cryptographic signatures that fail to provide adequate entropy and uniqueness required for secure authorization validation. This cryptographic weakness enables attackers to manipulate the 'validation_token' parameter within the plugin configuration, effectively circumventing the intended authentication controls. The vulnerability falls under the category of insufficiently unique cryptographic signature CWE-327, which directly relates to the use of weak or predictable cryptographic functions that can be easily compromised. The implementation of such flawed cryptographic mechanisms creates a pathway for attackers to gain unauthorized access to administrative functionalities that should remain protected.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, as it provides attackers with the ability to manipulate core plugin functionalities that can lead to privilege escalation. When attackers successfully modify the 'validation_token', they gain access to remote control features within the plugin, including the capability to generate admin access URLs. This represents a severe escalation of privileges, as the attacker can essentially create their own administrative access points to the WordPress installation. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that can be exploited repeatedly, making it particularly dangerous for long-term system compromise.
The security implications of CVE-2023-2987 align with several tactics outlined in the MITRE ATT&CK framework, particularly focusing on privilege escalation and persistence mechanisms. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to establish footholds within WordPress environments and potentially expand their access to other systems within the network infrastructure. The ability to create admin access URLs provides attackers with direct pathways to administrative interfaces, enabling them to modify content, install malicious plugins, or exfiltrate sensitive data. This vulnerability directly impacts the integrity and availability of WordPress installations, as it allows for unauthorized modifications to core system configurations without detection.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate action including updating the Wordapp plugin to a version that addresses the cryptographic signature weakness. System administrators should prioritize patching and ensure that all WordPress installations are running the latest secure versions of the plugin. Additional defensive measures include implementing network-based monitoring to detect unusual access patterns or configuration changes within WordPress plugins, as well as conducting regular security audits of installed plugins to identify potentially vulnerable components. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper cryptographic implementation in web applications and serves as a reminder of the critical nature of secure authentication mechanisms in preventing unauthorized access to administrative systems. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and access control policies to limit potential exploitation of similar vulnerabilities within their WordPress environments.