Bold Page Builder Vulnerability – Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-3267 & CVE-2024-3266 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What exactly is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

What exactly is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts are then saved on the server and executed in the browser of anyone who views the infected page. Unlike other forms of XSS, the malicious code does not need to be delivered via a direct link but is instead embedded directly into the web page, making it particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users over a longer period. Stored XSS vulnerabilities can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and can even allow attackers to gain control of the affected user's browser. It is considered one of the more severe types of XSS due to its persistent nature and the broad impact it can have on users.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is currently affected by the vulnerabilities mentioned?

How can I check if my WordPress site is currently affected by the vulnerabilities mentioned? To check if your site is affected by the CVE-2024-3267 or CVE-2024-3266 vulnerabilities, you should first verify which version of the Bold Page Builder plugin you are using. If your plugin version is at or below 4.8.8, your site is at risk. It is essential to update to version 4.8.9, which patches these vulnerabilities. Additionally, you should examine your website's pages and widgets for unusual or unauthorized scripts, which could be signs that your site has been compromised. Regular monitoring of user roles and activities can also help detect if an exploit has been attempted or is ongoing.

Q: What should I do if my website has been compromised due to these vulnerabilities?

What should I do if my website has been compromised due to these vulnerabilities? If you suspect that your website has been compromised as a result of these vulnerabilities, update the Bold Page Builder plugin immediately to the latest version to prevent further exploits. Next, conduct a thorough review of all website content and remove any unknown or suspicious scripts. It is also advised to reset passwords and review user roles to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made. You may need to restore your website from a backup taken before the infection, if possible. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional to ensure all aspects of the site are cleaned and secure can also be beneficial.

Q: Are there any reliable alternatives to the Bold Page Builder plugin?

Are there any reliable alternatives to the Bold Page Builder plugin? Yes, there are several reliable alternatives to Bold Page Builder that you can consider. Some popular options include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery Page Builder. Each of these plugins offers robust features and is regularly updated to address security concerns and enhance functionality. When choosing an alternative, consider the specific needs of your site, such as ease of use, compatibility with your theme, and the feature set. It's also prudent to research recent security updates and community feedback before installing a new plugin.

Q: How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released. Developers frequently update plugins to patch security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, and ensure compatibility with the latest version of WordPress. Delaying updates can leave your site vulnerable to known security threats. Setting up automatic updates for plugins is a good practice for critical security patches, especially if you are managing multiple sites or do not log in to your WordPress dashboard frequently. Regularly scheduled checks for updates should be part of your site maintenance routine.

Q: What is a CVSS score, and what does the score of 6.4 indicate?

What is a CVSS score, and what does the score of 6.4 indicate? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) provides a way to capture the principal characteristics of a security vulnerability and produce a numerical score reflecting its severity. The CVSS score ranges from 0 to 10, where higher values represent greater risk. A score of 6.4, as assigned to both CVE-2024-3267 and CVE-2024-3266, indicates a medium severity level. This score reflects the vulnerabilities' potential to cause significant harm if exploited, necessitating timely remedial action to mitigate risks.

Q: Can updating the Bold Page Builder plugin to the latest version cause issues with my WordPress site?

Can updating the Bold Page Builder plugin to the latest version cause issues with my WordPress site? While most updates are seamless, occasionally, updating a plugin can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes. These problems might result in features not working correctly or display issues on your site. To minimize potential issues, it’s advisable to test updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site. If problems arise after an update, you may need to revert to a previous version of the plugin or wait for the plugin developer to release a fix.

Q: What steps can I take to enhance the overall security of my WordPress website?

What steps can I take to enhance the overall security of my WordPress website? To enhance your WordPress website's security, consider implementing several best practices: use strong passwords, install a security plugin, enable two-factor authentication, regularly update all software, and back up your site frequently. Additionally, limit the number of login attempts to prevent brute force attacks and use secure connections (SSL/TLS) to encrypt data transferred between users and your site. Regularly auditing your site for vulnerabilities and educating yourself about common security threats can also significantly reduce risks and help you respond effectively to incidents.

Q: What role do security researchers play in the context of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

What role do security researchers play in the context of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities? Security researchers are crucial in identifying and reporting vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins. They use their expertise to test and probe plugins for weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Once a vulnerability is discovered, researchers typically report it to the plugin developers and may assist in developing a fix. Their work helps to ensure that the broader community is aware of potential risks, contributing to safer web environments for everyone. Recognition and support of these researchers are vital for ongoing WordPress security.

Q: How can I stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How can I stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? To stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins, subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and alerts from trusted sources such as the WordPress Security Team, security plugin developers, and cybersecurity news outlets. You can also follow relevant forums and communities where security issues are frequently discussed. Additionally, configuring your WordPress dashboard to notify you of updates and security warnings can help you respond quickly to new threats. Regular engagement with the WordPress community through meetups and conferences can also provide insights and proactive security strategies.

By Your WP Guy | April 5, 2024

Plugin Name: Bold Page Builder

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: bold-page-builder
Software Status: Active
Software Author: BoldThemes
Software Downloads: 1,754,649
Active Installs: 50,000
Last Updated: April 16, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.8.9
Affected Versions: <= 4.8.8

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Name: Bold Page Builder <= 4.8.8
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via bt_bb_price_list Shortcode
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-3267
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 5, 2024
Researcher: stealthcopter
Description: The Bold Page Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's bt_bb_price_list shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 4.8.8 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. Authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, can inject arbitrary web scripts into pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Name: Bold Page Builder <= 4.8.8
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Widget URL Attribute
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-3266
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 5, 2024
Researcher: wesley
Description: The Bold Page Builder plugin is also vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the URL attribute of widgets in all versions up to, and including, 4.8.8. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allowing authenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts that execute on accessing an injected page.

Summary:

The Bold Page Builder for WordPress has vulnerabilities in versions up to and including 4.8.8 that allow for Stored Cross-Site Scripting through both shortcode and widget URL attributes. These vulnerabilities have been patched in version 4.8.9.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerabilities identified by researchers stealthcopter and wesley involve insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, critical in web security to prevent XSS attacks. Both vulnerabilities permit injected scripts to persist within the website's content, posing risks such as data theft, session hijacking, and unauthorized actions on behalf of the users. Prompt updates to the latest software version alongside thorough reviews of user roles and permissions are necessary for remediation.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 4.8.9 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your website's content for unexpected script elements and monitor user roles to ensure only trusted users have contributor-level access or higher.
Alternate Plugins: Consider other reputable page builder plugins if you frequently encounter security issues with your current plugin.
Stay Updated: Ensure that all your website's plugins are regularly updated to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The quick response by BoldThemes to address these vulnerabilities through updates highlights the importance of keeping digital tools up to date. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to version 4.8.9 or later to secure their WordPress installations against these XSS vulnerabilities.

References:

Detailed Report:

Introduction:

In the digital realm, the security of your WordPress website hinges crucially on the plugins you install. Recent findings have spotlighted vulnerabilities in the Bold Page Builder plugin, a popular tool utilized by over 50,000 websites, which underscore this point vividly. Versions up to and including 4.8.8 have been compromised by Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities, identified as CVE-2024-3267 and CVE-2024-3266. These flaws allow attackers, even those with only contributor-level access, to inject harmful scripts that execute on victim pages, putting user data and website integrity at serious risk. As vulnerabilities like these can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and unauthorized actions, keeping your software up to date is not just recommended; it's imperative for safeguarding your online presence. This post aims to dissect these vulnerabilities, offer remedial advice, and serve as a resource for website owners looking to enhance their security posture in an increasingly perilous cyber landscape.

Vulnerability Overview:

CVE-2024-3267: This vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization of the bt_bb_price_list shortcode, allowing authenticated users with at least contributor privileges to embed arbitrary scripts into pages. These scripts are then executed when other users or administrators view the affected pages.
CVE-2024-3266: Similarly, this flaw involves the URL attribute of widgets, where scripts injected by contributors are executed on the client side without the user's knowledge, leading to potential data breaches or further exploitation of the site's backend.

Risks and Impacts:

The identified vulnerabilities allow attackers to manipulate web pages and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive information, compromising both user trust and the operational integrity of the website. In scenarios where attackers escalate their privileges, the entire site could be at risk, leading to potential data loss or hijacking of the site for malicious purposes.

Remediation Steps:

Immediate Update: Upgrade immediately to version 4.8.9 of Bold Page Builder, which addresses these vulnerabilities.
Audit User Roles: Ensure that only trusted users have access to higher privileges such as contributor roles or above.
Regular Monitoring: Frequently check your website for unusual activities or unauthorized script insertions, especially in posts and widgets.

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Since August 23, 2019, Bold Page Builder has encountered eight documented vulnerabilities, highlighting the importance of regular updates and continuous monitoring of security advisories related to your WordPress installations.

Conclusion:

The swift response from BoldThemes to patch the vulnerabilities in Bold Page Builder serves as a critical reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date installations of all software on your website. For small business owners, automating updates where possible, subscribing to security blogs, and using trusted security plugins can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities. Remember, the security of your website not only protects your business but also safeguards your customers, fostering a trustworthy digital environment.

Staying Secure

Staying on top of WordPress security can feel overwhelming for small business owners without dedicated IT staff. At Your WP Guy, we exist to shoulder that burden for you. Our WordPress experts can fully audit, secure, maintain and support your site - so you can focus on growing your business with peace of mind.

Don't tackle security risks alone. Let us help you assess any impact from this vulnerability, update your plugins, and implement ongoing maintenance to avoid future threats. We treat your website like it's our own - because we know how critical it is for reaching your customers.

Get in touch for a free consultation today on making WordPress security stress-free. Call 678-995-5169 or book a call here. Our knowledgeable team is ready to help you safeguard your online presence.

Bold Page Builder Vulnerability – Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-3267 & CVE-2024-3266 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What exactly is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts are then saved on the server and executed in the browser of anyone who views the infected page. Unlike other forms of XSS, the malicious code does not need to be delivered via a direct link but is instead embedded directly into the web page, making it particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users over a longer period.

Stored XSS vulnerabilities can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and can even allow attackers to gain control of the affected user's browser. It is considered one of the more severe types of XSS due to its persistent nature and the broad impact it can have on users.

How can I check if my WordPress site is currently affected by the vulnerabilities mentioned?

To check if your site is affected by the CVE-2024-3267 or CVE-2024-3266 vulnerabilities, you should first verify which version of the Bold Page Builder plugin you are using. If your plugin version is at or below 4.8.8, your site is at risk. It is essential to update to version 4.8.9, which patches these vulnerabilities.

Additionally, you should examine your website's pages and widgets for unusual or unauthorized scripts, which could be signs that your site has been compromised. Regular monitoring of user roles and activities can also help detect if an exploit has been attempted or is ongoing.

What should I do if my website has been compromised due to these vulnerabilities?

If you suspect that your website has been compromised as a result of these vulnerabilities, update the Bold Page Builder plugin immediately to the latest version to prevent further exploits. Next, conduct a thorough review of all website content and remove any unknown or suspicious scripts. It is also advised to reset passwords and review user roles to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made.

You may need to restore your website from a backup taken before the infection, if possible. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional to ensure all aspects of the site are cleaned and secure can also be beneficial.

Are there any reliable alternatives to the Bold Page Builder plugin?

Yes, there are several reliable alternatives to Bold Page Builder that you can consider. Some popular options include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery Page Builder. Each of these plugins offers robust features and is regularly updated to address security concerns and enhance functionality.

When choosing an alternative, consider the specific needs of your site, such as ease of use, compatibility with your theme, and the feature set. It's also prudent to research recent security updates and community feedback before installing a new plugin.

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released. Developers frequently update plugins to patch security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, and ensure compatibility with the latest version of WordPress. Delaying updates can leave your site vulnerable to known security threats.

Setting up automatic updates for plugins is a good practice for critical security patches, especially if you are managing multiple sites or do not log in to your WordPress dashboard frequently. Regularly scheduled checks for updates should be part of your site maintenance routine.

What is a CVSS score, and what does the score of 6.4 indicate?

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) provides a way to capture the principal characteristics of a security vulnerability and produce a numerical score reflecting its severity. The CVSS score ranges from 0 to 10, where higher values represent greater risk.

A score of 6.4, as assigned to both CVE-2024-3267 and CVE-2024-3266, indicates a medium severity level. This score reflects the vulnerabilities' potential to cause significant harm if exploited, necessitating timely remedial action to mitigate risks.

Can updating the Bold Page Builder plugin to the latest version cause issues with my WordPress site?

While most updates are seamless, occasionally, updating a plugin can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes. These problems might result in features not working correctly or display issues on your site.

To minimize potential issues, it’s advisable to test updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site. If problems arise after an update, you may need to revert to a previous version of the plugin or wait for the plugin developer to release a fix.

What steps can I take to enhance the overall security of my WordPress website?

To enhance your WordPress website's security, consider implementing several best practices: use strong passwords, install a security plugin, enable two-factor authentication, regularly update all software, and back up your site frequently. Additionally, limit the number of login attempts to prevent brute force attacks and use secure connections (SSL/TLS) to encrypt data transferred between users and your site.

Regularly auditing your site for vulnerabilities and educating yourself about common security threats can also significantly reduce risks and help you respond effectively to incidents.

What role do security researchers play in the context of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

Security researchers are crucial in identifying and reporting vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins. They use their expertise to test and probe plugins for weaknesses that could be exploited by attackers. Once a vulnerability is discovered, researchers typically report it to the plugin developers and may assist in developing a fix.

Their work helps to ensure that the broader community is aware of potential risks, contributing to safer web environments for everyone. Recognition and support of these researchers are vital for ongoing WordPress security.

How can I stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

To stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins, subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and alerts from trusted sources such as the WordPress Security Team, security plugin developers, and cybersecurity news outlets. You can also follow relevant forums and communities where security issues are frequently discussed.

Additionally, configuring your WordPress dashboard to notify you of updates and security warnings can help you respond quickly to new threats. Regular engagement with the WordPress community through meetups and conferences can also provide insights and proactive security strategies.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Bold Page Builder, CVE-2024-3266, CVE-2024-3267, Cybersecurity, Plugin Updates, Small Business Security, Website Security, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Bold Page Builder

Key Information:

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Introduction:

Vulnerability Overview:

Risks and Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Bold Page Builder Vulnerability – Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-3267 & CVE-2024-3266 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What exactly is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

How can I check if my WordPress site is currently affected by the vulnerabilities mentioned?

What should I do if my website has been compromised due to these vulnerabilities?

Are there any reliable alternatives to the Bold Page Builder plugin?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

What is a CVSS score, and what does the score of 6.4 indicate?

Can updating the Bold Page Builder plugin to the latest version cause issues with my WordPress site?

What steps can I take to enhance the overall security of my WordPress website?

What role do security researchers play in the context of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

How can I stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How can I stay informed about new vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

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