CVE-2023-5710 in System Dashboard Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/07/2023
The System Dashboard plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized access of data due to a missing capability check on the sd_constants() function hooked via an AJAX action in all versions up to, and including, 2.8.7. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access and above, to retrieve sensitive information such as database credentials.
If you want to get best quality of vulnerability data, you may have to visit VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/11/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2023-5710 resides within the System Dashboard plugin for WordPress, a widely used administrative tool that provides system monitoring and configuration capabilities. This particular flaw represents a critical authorization bypass issue that affects all versions up to and including 2.8.7, demonstrating a fundamental failure in the plugin's access control mechanisms. The vulnerability manifests through the sd_constants() function which is improperly exposed via an AJAX action hook, creating an unintended pathway for unauthorized data retrieval.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from a missing capability check within the plugin's codebase, specifically within the sd_constants() function that handles system constant retrieval. This function operates as an AJAX handler but fails to verify whether the requesting user possesses adequate privileges before executing sensitive operations. According to CWE-284, this constitutes an improper access control vulnerability where the system does not properly enforce authorization checks. The flaw allows attackers to make direct AJAX requests to the vulnerable endpoint without proper authentication verification, effectively bypassing WordPress's built-in capability management system.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe for WordPress installations utilizing the affected plugin, as it enables authenticated attackers with subscriber-level privileges or higher to extract sensitive system information. This includes database credentials and other critical configuration data that could be leveraged for further attacks. The vulnerability creates a persistent risk since it does not require elevated privileges beyond what a standard subscriber account already possesses, making it particularly dangerous in environments where user accounts may be compromised or where multiple user roles exist. Attackers could potentially escalate their access to the entire WordPress installation or even the underlying server infrastructure.
From a threat modeling perspective, this vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078.004 which describes valid accounts as a means of gaining access. The attack vector exploits the legitimate functionality of the plugin while circumventing intended access controls, making detection more challenging. Organizations should immediately implement mitigations including immediate plugin updates to versions that address the capability check issue, implementing additional security layers such as web application firewalls, and conducting thorough access control reviews. The vulnerability also highlights the importance of proper input validation and capability verification in AJAX endpoints, as specified in OWASP Top 10 security requirements. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins and their AJAX handlers are essential to prevent similar issues from occurring in other components of the WordPress ecosystem.