CVE-2023-3371 in EmbedPress Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/27/2023
The EmbedPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Sensitive Information Exposure due to hardcoded encryption key on the 'lock_content_form_handler' and 'display_password_form' function in versions up to, and including, 3.7.3. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to decrypt and view the password protected content.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/10/2026
The EmbedPress WordPress plugin contains a critical security vulnerability that exposes sensitive information through a hardcoded encryption key implementation. This flaw exists within the plugin's 'lock_content_form_handler' and 'display_password_form' functions, affecting all versions up to and including 3.7.3. The vulnerability represents a significant weakness in the plugin's access control mechanisms, as it allows unauthenticated attackers to bypass password protection measures and directly access protected content.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the use of a static, hardcoded encryption key within the plugin's core functionality. When content is password protected through EmbedPress, the system relies on this predetermined key to encrypt and decrypt access credentials. This approach violates fundamental security principles as outlined in CWE-310, which addresses cryptographic issues related to the use of hardcoded keys. The hardcoded nature of the encryption key eliminates the possibility of proper key rotation or secure key management practices, making the entire system vulnerable to exploitation by any attacker who can identify or guess the key.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple information disclosure, as it fundamentally undermines the security model that users expect from password-protected content. Attackers can exploit this weakness to decrypt and view protected material without authentication, potentially compromising sensitive data that was intended to be restricted. This exposure affects all content that has been secured through the EmbedPress plugin's password protection features, making it possible for unauthorized parties to access premium content, restricted resources, or confidential information that was meant to be protected. The vulnerability also creates potential for broader security implications within WordPress installations that rely on this plugin for content management.
This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566, which covers credential access through the exploitation of software vulnerabilities. The hardcoded encryption key represents a specific implementation flaw that directly enables unauthorized access to protected content, making it easier for attackers to gain access to sensitive materials without proper authentication. The flaw also demonstrates poor security hygiene practices that should be addressed through proper cryptographic implementation and key management protocols. Organizations using the EmbedPress plugin should immediately update to the latest version to address this vulnerability, as no patch was available for the affected versions. The exposure of password-protected content through hardcoded encryption keys creates a significant risk for any system that relies on this plugin for content protection, particularly in environments where sensitive information is commonly secured through password mechanisms.