CVE-2023-6777 in WP Go Maps Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/09/2024
The WP Go Maps (formerly WP Google Maps) plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthenticated API key disclosure in versions up to, and including, 9.0.34 due to the plugin adding the API key to several plugin files. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to obtain the developer's Google API key. While this does not affect the security of sites using this plugin, it allows unauthenticated attackers to make requests using this API key with the potential of exhausting requests resulting in an inability to use the map functionality offered by the plugin.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/14/2026
The WP Go Maps plugin for WordPress presents a significant security vulnerability classified as CVE-2023-6777, affecting versions up to and including 9.0.34. This vulnerability stems from the plugin's improper handling of Google API keys within its codebase, creating an exposure that allows unauthenticated attackers to extract sensitive credentials. The flaw represents a direct violation of secure coding practices as outlined in CWE-200, which addresses information exposure through improper error handling and credential storage. The vulnerability manifests when the plugin embeds API keys directly into plugin files, making them accessible through various attack vectors without requiring authentication or authorization from legitimate users.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the plugin's design pattern where Google API keys are hardcoded or statically embedded within plugin source files rather than being properly abstracted or secured through appropriate access controls. This approach fundamentally breaches the principle of least privilege and secure credential management as recommended by industry standards. Attackers can exploit this weakness by accessing plugin files through various means such as direct file access, path traversal attacks, or by leveraging other vulnerabilities within the WordPress ecosystem that may provide access to plugin directories. The disclosure occurs at the application level where sensitive credentials are not adequately protected or obscured, creating an environment where unauthorized parties can easily obtain the keys.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential exposure, as it creates potential for abuse of the associated Google services. While the vulnerability itself does not directly compromise the WordPress site's core functionality or user data, it enables attackers to consume the legitimate developer's API quota through unauthorized requests. This abuse can lead to service disruption where the legitimate site owner experiences limitations in map functionality due to exhausted API limits. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1583.001, which covers credential access through the acquisition of credentials from information repositories, and represents a form of information gathering that can lead to service degradation or denial of service conditions. The potential for quota exhaustion creates a cascading effect where legitimate users experience degraded service quality.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from site administrators and developers. The most effective approach involves updating to a patched version of the WP Go Maps plugin where API keys are properly secured and abstracted from the plugin files. Organizations should implement proper API key management practices including the use of environment variables, secure credential storage mechanisms, and regular key rotation procedures. Security measures should also include monitoring API usage patterns to detect unusual consumption that might indicate unauthorized access to the compromised keys. Additionally, implementing proper file access controls and restricting direct file system access can help prevent unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of following secure coding guidelines and proper credential handling practices as outlined in various security frameworks including those recommended by NIST and ISO/IEC 27001 standards.