CVE-2023-3743 in Ap Page Builder
Summary
by MITRE • 07/18/2023
Ap Page Builder, in versions lower than 1.7.8.2, could allow a remote attacker to send a specially crafted SQL query to the product_one_img parameter to retrieve the information stored in the database.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/18/2023
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-3743 affects the Ap Page Builder WordPress plugin, specifically versions prior to 1.7.8.2, presenting a critical SQL injection weakness that enables remote attackers to extract sensitive database information. This flaw resides within the product_one_img parameter handling mechanism, where inadequate input validation allows malicious actors to inject crafted SQL commands that bypass normal security controls. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and represents a direct exploitation of improper input sanitization practices that violate fundamental security principles.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient parameter validation and sanitization within the Ap Page Builder plugin's codebase. When the product_one_img parameter receives user input without proper escaping or filtering, attackers can construct malicious SQL queries that execute within the database context. This type of vulnerability maps directly to CWE-89, which categorizes SQL injection flaws as weaknesses that allow attackers to manipulate database queries through untrusted input. The attack vector requires no authentication and can be executed remotely, making it particularly dangerous in environments where the plugin is publicly accessible.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data exfiltration to encompass potential system compromise and data integrity violations. Attackers can leverage this weakness to access sensitive information including user credentials, personal data, and system configurations stored within the database. The vulnerability's severity classification aligns with CVSS scores indicating high impact potential, as it provides attackers with direct database access that could lead to privilege escalation, data manipulation, or complete system compromise. Organizations running affected plugin versions face significant risk of unauthorized data access and potential regulatory compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2023-3743 primarily focus on immediate remediation through plugin version updates to 1.7.8.2 or later, which contain the necessary security patches addressing the SQL injection vulnerability. System administrators should implement comprehensive input validation measures and sanitize all user-provided data before processing, utilizing prepared statements and parameterized queries to prevent similar issues. Network-level protections including web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems can provide additional defense-in-depth measures, while regular security audits and vulnerability assessments help identify potential weaknesses in the broader application ecosystem. The remediation process should also include monitoring for potential exploitation attempts and implementing proper access controls to limit the attack surface. Organizations should also consider implementing the principle of least privilege for database connections and regularly review database access logs for suspicious activities that might indicate exploitation attempts.