CVE-2023-48771 in File Gallery Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/14/2023
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Bruno "Aesqe" Babic File Gallery allows Reflected XSS.This issue affects File Gallery: from n/a through 1.8.5.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/11/2024
The CVE-2023-48771 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the File Gallery plugin for WordPress, specifically impacting versions ranging from an unspecified initial version through 1.8.5.4. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category, which classifies it as a classic reflected cross-site scripting attack vector. The flaw occurs during the web page generation process where user input is improperly sanitized before being rendered back to the browser, creating an opportunity for malicious actors to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into the victim's browsing session.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability involves the manipulation of input parameters that are then reflected back to the user without proper output encoding or validation. When a user visits a maliciously crafted URL containing XSS payload within the plugin's parameter handling, the malicious script executes in the context of the victim's browser session. This allows attackers to perform actions such as stealing session cookies, modifying page content, redirecting users to malicious sites, or even executing unauthorized administrative commands if the victim holds administrative privileges. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it leverages the legitimate functionality of the plugin to deliver malicious payloads, making detection more challenging for security systems.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it can lead to complete session hijacking and privilege escalation within the affected WordPress environment. Attackers can exploit this flaw to gain unauthorized access to user accounts, manipulate file gallery content, or use the compromised session to perform administrative actions that could result in full system compromise. The reflected nature of this XSS means that the attack requires user interaction through a malicious link, but once clicked, it can persistently compromise the victim's session. This vulnerability particularly affects WordPress installations where the File Gallery plugin is actively used, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to exploit common WordPress vulnerabilities.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest version of the File Gallery plugin where the vulnerability has been patched, implementing proper input validation and output encoding mechanisms, and deploying web application firewalls that can detect and block XSS attack patterns. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1566.001 - Phishing: Spearphishing Attachment, as attackers often use XSS vulnerabilities to deliver malicious payloads through seemingly legitimate web interactions. Additionally, implementing Content Security Policy headers can provide an additional layer of protection against reflected XSS attacks, while regular security audits and input sanitization practices should be enforced throughout the application codebase to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in the future.