BoldGrid Easy SEO Vulnerability – Authenticated(Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Meta Description – CVE-2024-1692 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: BoldGrid Easy SEO – Simple and Effective SEO

Key Information:

  • Software Type: Plugin
  • Software Slug: boldgrid-easy-seo
  • Software Status: Active
  • Software Author: boldgrid
  • Software Downloads: 692,441
  • Active Installs: 70,000
  • Last Updated: April 1, 2024
  • Patched Versions: 1.6.14
  • Affected Versions: <= 1.6.13

Vulnerability Details:

  • Name: BoldGrid Easy SEO – Simple and Effective SEO <= 1.6.13
  • Title: Authenticated(Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Meta Description
  • Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
  • CVE: CVE-2024-1692
  • CVSS Score: 6.4
  • Publicly Published: March 29, 2024
  • Researcher: Webbernaut
  • Description: The BoldGrid Easy SEO – Simple and Effective SEO plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the meta description field in all versions up to, and including, 1.6.13 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.6.13 that enables authenticated users with contributor-level and above permissions to perform stored cross-site scripting via the meta description field. This vulnerability has been patched in version 1.6.14.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, discovered by researcher Webbernaut, is significant due to its potential for allowing attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts on affected sites. The issue stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin's handling of meta descriptions. This flaw can lead to a range of malicious activities, including the theft of user data and the compromise of site integrity. The developers of BoldGrid Easy SEO have addressed this vulnerability by releasing patch 1.6.14, which applies the necessary sanitization and escaping procedures to prevent such attacks.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin should immediately update to the patched version 1.6.14 to mitigate this vulnerability. Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your website's pages and meta descriptions for unexpected or malicious content that could indicate exploitation. Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is secure, considering alternative SEO plugins can provide an added layer of precaution. Stay Updated: Consistently updating all WordPress plugins to their latest versions is crucial for maintaining site security and functionality.

Conclusion:

The swift action taken by the developers to release a patch for this vulnerability highlights the critical nature of maintaining up-to-date software on your WordPress site. To ensure your site's security, it is advised that all users update their BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin to version 1.6.14 or later.

References:

Detailed Report: 

In today's digital age, the security of your website is paramount. A seemingly minor oversight in keeping software up-to-date can open the floodgates to cyber threats, compromising sensitive data and undermining the trust you've worked hard to build with your audience. The recent discovery of a critical vulnerability in the BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin, used widely across WordPress sites, serves as a potent reminder of this ongoing risk. Specifically, the vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-1692 in versions up to and including 1.6.13, highlights the need for constant vigilance and prompt action in the realm of website security.

BoldGrid Easy SEO: An Overview

BoldGrid Easy SEO, celebrated for its user-friendly approach to search engine optimization, has become a staple on many WordPress sites. With over 70,000 active installations and a substantial download count of 692,441, its impact is widespread. The plugin's recent update on April 1, 2024, to version 1.6.14, was in direct response to the vulnerability, showcasing the developers' commitment to user safety.

Understanding the Vulnerability

CVE-2024-1692 exposed a stored cross-site scripting flaw within the plugin's meta description field. This vulnerability allowed authenticated users, specifically those with contributor-level access or higher, to inject malicious scripts. The potential for harm here is significant, as it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, manipulation of website content, and a tarnished website reputation.

The Risks and Potential Impacts

The implications of such a vulnerability are far-reaching. Beyond the immediate risk of data theft and website defacement, there's the potential for more insidious attacks, such as phishing campaigns launched from your domain, eroding customer trust and loyalty.

Remediation Steps

For users of the BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin, the path to mitigation is clear: update to the latest version, 1.6.14, without delay. This patched version addresses the vulnerability, closing the door on this particular threat. Furthermore, it's advisable to regularly review your site for any unusual content changes or unexpected meta descriptions, signs that could indicate a compromise.

A Look Back at Previous Vulnerabilities

This isn't the first time WordPress plugins have been the target of vulnerabilities, nor will it be the last. The dynamic nature of cyber threats means that new vulnerabilities are constantly emerging, reinforcing the need for ongoing vigilance and regular software updates.

The Critical Nature of Security Vigilance

For small business owners, the time and expertise required to stay ahead of these threats may seem daunting. However, the cost of inaction can be far greater, leading to potential financial losses and damage to your brand's reputation. Leveraging managed WordPress hosting services, employing security plugins, and maintaining regular backups are practical steps that can significantly bolster your site's defenses with minimal ongoing effort.

In conclusion, the discovery of CVE-2024-1692 within the BoldGrid Easy SEO plugin serves as a critical reminder of the importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures on your WordPress site. For small business owners, the challenge of balancing day-to-day operations with website security may be daunting, but it's essential. Implementing robust security practices, staying informed about potential vulnerabilities, and taking swift action when necessary can protect your site from the myriad of threats lurking in the digital landscape, ensuring the safety of your data and the trust of your visitors.

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.

BoldGrid Easy SEO Vulnerability – Authenticated(Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Meta Description – CVE-2024-1692 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

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