CVE-2023-40331 in Accordion Slider Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/13/2024
Missing Authorization vulnerability in bqworks Accordion Slider allows Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels.This issue affects Accordion Slider: from n/a through 1.9.6.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/20/2026
The missing authorization vulnerability in bqworks Accordion Slider represents a critical access control flaw that undermines the security posture of WordPress installations. This vulnerability stems from improper configuration of security levels within the plugin's access control mechanisms, allowing unauthorized users to exploit functionality that should be restricted to administrators or authorized personnel. The issue manifests as a failure to properly validate user permissions before executing sensitive operations, creating a pathway for privilege escalation and unauthorized access to administrative features.
From a technical perspective, the vulnerability operates through incorrect implementation of authorization checks within the plugin's codebase. The Accordion Slider plugin fails to adequately verify whether the requesting user possesses sufficient privileges to perform specific actions such as modifying slider configurations, accessing administrative interfaces, or manipulating content. This flaw typically occurs when the plugin does not properly integrate with WordPress's built-in user role and capability systems, resulting in a scenario where any authenticated user can potentially access restricted functionality. The vulnerability can be classified under CWE-285 which specifically addresses improper authorization in software systems, and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 which covers valid accounts and privilege escalation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access to potentially compromise entire WordPress installations. An attacker exploiting this flaw could modify slider content, inject malicious code through configuration changes, or manipulate the plugin's behavior to redirect users to malicious sites. The affected versions ranging from n/a through 1.9.6 indicate that this issue has persisted across multiple releases, suggesting a fundamental flaw in the plugin's security architecture rather than a transient bug. This vulnerability creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access points within the WordPress environment, particularly when combined with other vulnerabilities or when the plugin is used in conjunction with other security-deficient components.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from system administrators and security teams responsible for WordPress deployments. The primary recommendation involves updating the Accordion Slider plugin to the latest available version where the authorization checks have been properly implemented and tested. Additionally, administrators should conduct thorough audits of user roles and capabilities within their WordPress installations to ensure that only authorized personnel possess access to sensitive administrative functions. Network-level security measures including firewall rules and access control lists can provide additional layers of protection, while monitoring systems should be configured to detect unusual access patterns or unauthorized configuration changes. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of implementing proper security testing procedures including penetration testing and code reviews to identify similar authorization flaws in other plugins and themes within the WordPress ecosystem.