CVE-2023-4521
Published: September 25, 2023· Updated: Jun 17, 2026
Official Description
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.
Risk Analysis
The Import XML and RSS Feeds WordPress plugin contains a web shell, enabling remote code execution by unauthenticated attackers. This is a critical security risk resulting from leftover development artifacts.
No public exploit is known, and it is not in the KEV catalog. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable.
Update the plugin to version 2.1.5 or later and remove any unauthorized files from the installation.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2023-4521 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
The vulnerability requires no privileges and no user interaction, making it a prime target for automated exploitation campaigns and worm-like propagation.
A successful exploit results in complete confidentiality breach (data exposure), full integrity compromise (data manipulation), availability disruption (denial of service), with a CVSS base score of 9.8.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
Official Patches & Advisories
All References (2)
Quick Facts
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2023-4521 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts