Beaver Builder Vulnerability– WordPress Page Builder – Authenticated Contributor+ Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Audio Widget – CVE-2024-1074 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: Beaver Builder – WordPress Page Builder
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: beaver-builder-lite-version
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: justinbusa
- Software Downloads: 9,601,854
- Active Installs: 100,000
- Last Updated: February 28, 2024
- Patched Versions: 2.7.4.3
- Affected Versions: <= 2.7.4.2
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: Beaver Builder – WordPress Page Builder <= 2.7.4.2
- Title: Authenticated Contributor+ Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Audio Widget
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-1074
- CVSS Score: 6.4
- Publicly Published: February 28, 2024
- Researcher: RandomRoot
- Description: The Beaver Builder plugin, a widely used WordPress page builder, has been found to contain a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability within its audio widget functionality. Specifically, the 'link_url' parameter in versions up to and including 2.7.4.2 lacks proper input sanitization and output escaping. This security flaw enables authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to embed harmful scripts into web pages, which are then executed when other users view the affected page.
Summary:
Beaver Builder – WordPress Page Builder harbors a vulnerability in versions up to 2.7.4.2, where the audio widget's 'link_url' parameter can be exploited for Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks by users with contributor-level access or higher. This vulnerability has been effectively rectified in version 2.7.4.3.
Detailed Overview:
This vulnerability, identified by the cybersecurity researcher RandomRoot, underscores the critical importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding in web development. The ability for attackers to inject and execute arbitrary scripts poses a significant risk, compromising user data and site integrity. The prompt issuance of patch 2.7.4.3 by Beaver Builder's development team mitigates this vulnerability, safeguarding websites from potential XSS attacks facilitated by this oversight.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: It is crucial for users of the Beaver Builder plugin to update to the patched version, 2.7.4.3, without delay to close this security gap.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should monitor their websites for unusual behavior or unauthorized content changes, which may indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
- Alternate Plugins: While the patched version addresses this specific vulnerability, exploring alternative page builder plugins with strong security practices could provide additional peace of mind.
- Stay Updated: The cornerstone of web security is regular updates. Ensuring that all WordPress plugins are up-to-date is fundamental in protecting against known vulnerabilities.
Conclusion:
The discovery and subsequent resolution of the Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in the Beaver Builder plugin highlight the ongoing battle against web-based threats. This incident serves as a potent reminder for all WordPress users of the imperative to maintain updated software. By adhering to this best practice, website owners can fortify their defenses, ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for their users.
References:
In the digital age, where websites serve as the cornerstone of business identity and interaction, the security of these platforms cannot be overstated. The recent uncovering of a vulnerability within the Beaver Builder – WordPress Page Builder plugin, denoted as CVE-2024-1074, serves as a critical reminder of the ever-looming threats in the digital world and the paramount importance of maintaining the security integrity of online platforms. This vulnerability, arising from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin's audio widget, enables authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts, posing significant risks to site integrity and user security.
Beaver Builder: An Essential Tool with a Flaw
Beaver Builder, a staple in the WordPress community, boasts over 100,000 active installations and has facilitated the creation of countless websites with its user-friendly page-building capabilities. Authored by justinbusa and with a significant download count of over 9.6 million, the plugin's widespread use underscores the impact of any vulnerability within its codebase. The plugin was last updated on February 28, 2024, with the patched version 2.7.4.3 specifically addressing the newfound security concern.
CVE-2024-1074: A Closer Look
CVE-2024-1074 exposes a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability through the audio widget's 'link_url' parameter in versions up to 2.7.4.2. This vulnerability was brought to light by cybersecurity researcher RandomRoot, emphasizing the critical need for stringent input validation and output encoding practices in web development. The potential execution of harmful scripts by attackers compromises not only user data but also the overall trust in the affected websites.
Risks and Potential Impacts
The implications of this vulnerability extend beyond mere technical glitches, posing tangible risks to data privacy, user trust, and the overall reputation of websites utilizing the Beaver Builder plugin. In scenarios where malicious scripts are executed, sensitive user information could be compromised, and unauthorized access to website administrative functions could be obtained, leading to a broader spectrum of security breaches.
Mitigation and Remediation
To safeguard against the risks posed by CVE-2024-1074, users of the Beaver Builder plugin must promptly update to the patched version, 2.7.4.3. This immediate action, coupled with thorough site audits for unusual activities and potential unauthorized content alterations, forms the first line of defense in rectifying the vulnerability's impact. For added security, exploring alternative page builder plugins with a strong emphasis on security and regular updates can serve as a preventative measure against future vulnerabilities.
Historical Context and the Path Forward
With 11 previous vulnerabilities recorded since February 8, 2016, the history of Beaver Builder's security concerns highlights the ongoing battle against cyber threats and the necessity of relentless vigilance in software maintenance. For small business owners, the challenge of staying abreast of every security update and potential vulnerability might seem daunting. However, the consequences of neglect, including compromised data and eroded user trust, far outweigh the effort required to maintain a secure online presence.
Conclusion: The Imperative of Proactive Security Measures
The discovery and resolution of CVE-2024-1074 within the Beaver Builder plugin underscore the critical nature of proactive security measures in the realm of web management. For small business owners, the incident serves as a potent reminder of the importance of regular plugin updates, security audits, and the consideration of alternative solutions to safeguard digital assets. In a landscape where cyber threats are ever-evolving, the commitment to maintaining updated and secure software is not just a technical necessity but a fundamental business practice, ensuring the longevity and trustworthiness of your digital presence in the competitive online marketplace.
Staying Secure
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