All in One SEO Vulnerability – Best WordPress SEO Plugin – Easily Improve SEO Rankings & Increase Traffic – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2024-3554 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: All in One SEO – Best WordPress SEO Plugin – Easily Improve SEO Rankings & Increase Traffic
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: all-in-one-seo-pack
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: smub
- Software Downloads: 148,632,678
- Active Installs: 3,000,000
- Last Updated: May 13, 2024
- Patched Versions: 4.6.1.1
- Affected Versions: <= 4.6.0
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: All in One SEO – Best WordPress SEO Plugin – Easily Improve SEO Rankings & Increase Traffic <= 4.6.0
- Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-3554
- CVSS Score: 6.4
- Publicly Published: April 29, 2024
- Researcher: Krzysztof Zając - CERT PL
- Description: The plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via its shortcode(s) due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts that execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Summary:
The All in One SEO plugin for WordPress has a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.6.0 that permits authenticated contributors to inject malicious scripts via shortcodes. This vulnerability has been addressed and patched in version 4.6.1.1.
Detailed Overview:
This vulnerability exposes sites using the All in One SEO plugin to potential security threats by allowing stored cross-site scripting (XSS). Identified by Krzysztof Zając of CERT PL, the vulnerability stems from the plugin’s failure to adequately sanitize and escape input from users, particularly in its handling of shortcodes. Attackers with at least contributor privileges could exploit this to execute scripts that can steal cookies, hijack sessions, or redirect users to malicious websites.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Users should update to version 4.6.1.1 immediately to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Website administrators should inspect their websites for any unusual activities or unauthorized content that could suggest exploitation.
- Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is secure, users might consider evaluating alternative SEO plugins that consistently demonstrate strong security practices.
- Stay Updated: Continually ensure that your plugins, themes, and WordPress core are updated to the latest versions to protect against known vulnerabilities.
Conclusion:
The prompt patching of the vulnerability in All in One SEO by its developers underscores the essential nature of regular software updates in maintaining website security. Users are encouraged to install version 4.6.1.1 or later to secure their WordPress installations effectively. Regular updates, combined with vigilant monitoring of website activity, form the cornerstone of a proactive security strategy for any WordPress site owner.
References:
- Wordfence Threat Intelligence on All in One SEO Pack Vulnerability
- Additional Information on Vulnerabilities in All in One SEO Pack
Detailed Report:
In the digital world, where SEO tools like the All in One SEO plugin play a pivotal role in enhancing website visibility and traffic, the significance of software maintenance comes into sharp focus. Recently, a critical security flaw in All in One SEO—marked as CVE-2024-3554—has exposed the potential dangers lurking behind outdated software on millions of websites. This vulnerability, specifically a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, affects versions up to and including 4.6.0 and has put user data at risk by allowing malicious scripts to be injected via the plugin's shortcodes.
Detailed Overview:
This vulnerability exposes sites using the All in One SEO plugin to potential security threats by allowing stored cross-site scripting (XSS). Identified by Krzysztof Zając of CERT PL, the vulnerability stems from the plugin’s failure to adequately sanitize and escape input from users, particularly in its handling of shortcodes. Attackers with at least contributor privileges could exploit this to execute scripts that can steal cookies, hijack sessions, or redirect users to malicious websites.
Risks and Potential Impacts:
The exposure of sensitive user data can lead to significant consequences including identity theft, financial fraud, and loss of public trust. For businesses, this can translate into substantial reputational damage and potential legal repercussions if customer information is compromised.
Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:
Since May 31, 2014, there have been 17 recorded vulnerabilities within this plugin, highlighting the ongoing need for vigilance and regular security audits.
Conclusion:
The prompt patching of the vulnerability in All in One SEO by its developers underscores the essential nature of regular software updates in maintaining website security. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, it is particularly important to stay informed and proactive in updating plugins to protect against vulnerabilities. Regular updates, combined with vigilant monitoring of website activity, form the cornerstone of a proactive security strategy for any WordPress site owner.
Staying Secure
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