CVE-2023-4521 - Before 2 Plugin
CVE-2023-4521
The Import XML and RSS Feeds WordPress plugin before 2.1.5 contains a web shell, allowing unauthenticated attackers to perform RCE. The plugin/vendor was not compromised and the files are the result of running a PoC for a previously reported issue (https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/d4220025-2272-4d5f-9703-4b2ac4a51c42) and not deleting the created files when releasing the new version.
CVE-2023-4521
CRITICAL
CVSS 9.8
Published 2023-09-25
Updated 2025-04-23
AI Risk Critical (100/100)
Active Exploit: No strong signal
Published Exploit: Possible PoC indicators
Priority: P1 Immediate
Severity Band
CRITICAL
CVSS Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
Affected Components
2
Reference Links
1
AI Risk Engine
Critical (100/100)
Exploitability
Very High
Active Exploitation
No strong signal
Published Exploit Status
Possible PoC indicators
AI Context
Machine-generated threat intelligence
AI
Updated 7 days ago
AI enriched 7 days ago (2026-04-09 07:52 UTC)
Technical Summary
The Import XML and RSS Feeds WordPress plugin before 2.1.5 contains a web shell, allowing unauthenticated attackers to perform RCE. The plugin/vendor was not compromised and the files are the result of running a PoC for a previously reported issue (https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/d4220025-2272-4d5f-9703-4b2ac4a51c42) and not deleting the created files when releasing the new version.
Potential Impact
Severity is CRITICAL (CVSS 9.8). Depending on deployment context, affected components may be exposed to unauthorized actions or data integrity risk.
Exploitability Assessment
Exploitability is assessed as Very High based on remote code execution potential, low-bar exploit prerequisites.
Primary risk drivers: remote code execution potential, low-bar exploit prerequisites
Mitigation Recommendations
Validate affected product versions, prioritize patching, and monitor references for vendor remediation guidance. If immediate patching is not possible, apply compensating controls and limit exposure of vulnerable surfaces.
Detection & Monitoring
Track authentication anomalies, unexpected file writes, and suspicious plugin API activity around affected components.
Business Impact Lens
Prioritize remediation where affected components process customer data, admin sessions, or Internet-exposed workflows.