CVE-2023-4314 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the wpDataTables WordPress plugin versions prior to 2.1.66. The core issue arises from improper validation of serialized PHP array input data before deserialization. Specifically, the plugin allows administrative users to submit serialized data that is deserialized without sufficient checks, leading to a classic CWE-502 vulnerability: deserialization of untrusted data. This flaw can be exploited if a suitable gadget chain exists on the server, enabling remote code execution (RCE). The vulnerability is particularly critical in environments where administrative privileges are restricted or segmented, such as WordPress multisite installations, where admin users should not have the capability to execute arbitrary code. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 7.2 reflects a high severity, with the vector indicating network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring high privileges (PR:H), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for RCE makes this vulnerability a significant risk if left unpatched. The absence of official patch links suggests that users must verify plugin versions and update to 2.1.66 or later once available or apply vendor-provided mitigations. The vulnerability is assigned by WPScan and enriched by CISA, indicating recognition by authoritative security entities.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be substantial, especially for those relying on WordPress multisite environments or using the wpDataTables plugin to manage tabular data. Successful exploitation could lead to full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for lateral movement within the network. This is particularly concerning for sectors with stringent data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government agencies, where unauthorized code execution could lead to breaches of sensitive personal or operational data, violating GDPR and other regulatory frameworks. Additionally, compromised WordPress sites can be used to distribute malware or conduct phishing campaigns, amplifying the threat beyond the initial target. The requirement for administrative privileges limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, as insider threats or compromised admin accounts could be leveraged. The lack of user interaction needed for exploitation increases the risk in automated or scripted attack scenarios. Given the widespread use of WordPress across Europe, the vulnerability poses a notable risk to a broad range of organizations.

1. Immediate verification of the wpDataTables plugin version in use is critical; ensure upgrading to version 2.1.66 or later where the vulnerability is addressed. 2. Restrict administrative access to trusted personnel only and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization at the application level where possible, especially for serialized data inputs. 4. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious serialized payloads targeting wpDataTables endpoints. 5. Monitor WordPress logs and server activity for unusual deserialization attempts or unexpected admin actions. 6. In multisite environments, consider isolating critical sites or limiting plugin usage to reduce the attack surface. 7. Regularly back up WordPress sites and databases to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 8. Stay informed on vendor updates and security advisories related to wpDataTables and apply patches promptly. 9. Conduct security audits and penetration testing focusing on deserialization vulnerabilities and privilege escalation paths within WordPress installations.