Burst Statistics Vulnerability – Authenticated (Editor+) SQL Injection – CVE-2024-0405 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the CVE-2024-0405 vulnerability in the Burst Statistics plugin?

What is the CVE-2024-0405 vulnerability in the Burst Statistics plugin? CVE-2024-0405 is a security vulnerability identified in the Burst Statistics plugin for WordPress. This issue, known as an Authenticated SQL Injection vulnerability, affects versions up to and including 1.5.3. It allows attackers with editor-level access or higher to execute unauthorized SQL queries through various JSON parameters in the plugin's API. The vulnerability arises due to insufficient sanitization of user-input data in the plugin. This flaw can potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data in the website's database, posing a significant risk to website security and user privacy.

Q: How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability? To determine if your website is affected, you need to check the version of the Burst Statistics plugin installed on your WordPress site. Log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate Burst Statistics. If your plugin version is 1.5.3 or lower, your site is vulnerable. It's important to regularly monitor your website for any unusual activities or changes, especially if you have users with editor or higher-level access. Such monitoring can help detect if your site has been compromised due to this vulnerability.

Q: What steps should I take to update the Burst Statistics plugin?

What steps should I take to update the Burst Statistics plugin? Updating the Burst Statistics plugin is a straightforward process. First, log into your WordPress dashboard and go to the 'Plugins' section. Find the Burst Statistics plugin and check if there is an update available. If an update is shown, click the 'Update Now' button to initiate the process. After updating, verify that your site is functioning correctly. It's also a good practice to make regular backups of your website, so you can restore it to a previous state if any issues arise post-update.

Q: Can this vulnerability impact other plugins or WordPress themes?

Can this vulnerability impact other plugins or WordPress themes? While CVE-2024-0405 is specific to the Burst Statistics plugin, it does not directly affect other plugins or themes. However, vulnerabilities in one plugin can potentially weaken the overall security of a WordPress site, making it more susceptible to attacks that might exploit other components. It's crucial to maintain all plugins and themes updated to their latest versions to ensure comprehensive security for your WordPress site. Regular updates include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

Q: What should I do if I think my website has been compromised?

What should I do if I think my website has been compromised? If you suspect your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the Burst Statistics plugin to the latest version. Then, conduct a thorough review of your website for any unauthorized changes, particularly in user roles, access privileges, and database content. In case of a confirmed breach, consider seeking assistance from a cybersecurity professional. They can help in cleaning up the site, strengthening security measures, and providing advice on preventing future attacks. Additionally, restoring your website from a backup made before the compromise can be an effective solution.

Q: Are there alternative plugins I can use in place of Burst Statistics?

Are there alternative plugins I can use in place of Burst Statistics? Yes, there are several alternative analytics plugins available for WordPress. When considering a switch, it's important to evaluate the features, security history, and user reviews of alternative plugins. Some popular options include Google Analytics by MonsterInsights, Jetpack by WordPress.com, and WP Statistics. However, switching plugins should be done cautiously, as each plugin has its own set of functionalities and might require configuration changes to your site. It’s also worth noting that all plugins have the potential for vulnerabilities, so regular updates and security monitoring remain crucial.

Q: How can I protect my WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities in the future?

How can I protect my WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities in the future? To protect your WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities, regularly update all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core itself. Implement strong passwords, use two-factor authentication, and limit user access privileges based on necessity. Employing a security plugin that scans for vulnerabilities and monitors for suspicious activities can also be beneficial. Staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is equally important. Subscribe to WordPress security blogs, newsletters, or join WordPress communities to keep up-to-date with minimal effort. A proactive approach to website security can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and cyber attacks.

Q: What are the best practices for responding to a security vulnerability in a plugin?

What are the best practices for responding to a security vulnerability in a plugin? When responding to a security vulnerability in a plugin, the first step is to apply any available updates promptly. If an update is not yet available, consider deactivating and removing the plugin temporarily until a patch is released. In some cases, replacing the vulnerable plugin with an alternative until the issue is resolved can be a safe strategy. Regularly backup your website so you can restore it to a state before the vulnerability was exploited. If a breach occurs, review your site for unauthorized changes and consult with a cybersecurity professional if needed. Staying informed about the latest vulnerabilities and updates for your installed plugins is essential for timely responses.

Q: Can updating the Burst Statistics plugin cause compatibility issues with my website?

Can updating the Burst Statistics plugin cause compatibility issues with my website? While updating plugins is generally safe and recommended, there is a possibility that updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To mitigate this risk, it’s advisable to perform updates on a staging site first, if possible, or at least ensure that you have a recent backup before applying updates. If issues arise after updating, you can revert to the backup and investigate the cause of the problem. You may need to consult with the plugin developers or a web development professional to resolve compatibility issues.

Q: What should small business owners who manage WordPress sites know about website security?

What should small business owners who manage WordPress sites know about website security? Small business owners managing WordPress sites should understand that website security is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup. It involves regular updates of all software components, employing strong passwords and access controls, and monitoring the site for suspicious activities. Using security plugins and implementing basic security measures like SSL/TLS encryption can also enhance protection. Considering managed WordPress hosting services can be a time-saving and effective solution, as they often include security updates and backups. Finally, staying informed about the latest security trends and threats is crucial, even for those with limited time, as it helps in making informed decisions about website security and management.

By Your WP Guy | January 16, 2024

Plugin Name: Burst Statistics – Privacy-Friendly Analytics for WordPress

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: burst-statistics
Software Status: Active
Software Author: rogierlankhorst
Software Downloads: 1,470,512
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: January 25, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.5.4
Affected Versions: <= 1.5.3

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Burst Statistics Really Simple Plugins <= 1.5.3
Title: Authenticated (Editor+) SQL Injection
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-0405
CVSS Score: 7.2
Publicly Published: January 16, 2024
Researcher: Ivan Spiridonov (xbz0n)
Description: Version 1.5.3 of the Burst Statistics plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Post-Authenticated SQL Injection via various JSON parameters in the /wp-json/burst/v1/data/compare endpoint. Parameters affected include 'browser', 'device', 'page_id', 'page_url', 'platform', and 'referrer'. This vulnerability results from inadequate escaping of user-supplied parameters and the lack of proper preparation in SQL queries. Consequently, authenticated attackers with editor-level access or higher can execute additional SQL queries, potentially accessing sensitive database information.

Summary:

The Burst Statistics plugin for WordPress contains a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.5.3 that allows Post-Authenticated SQL Injection. This vulnerability has been addressed and patched in version 1.5.4.

Detailed Overview:

This detailed analysis of the vulnerability discovered by Ivan Spiridonov (xbz0n) reveals a critical security flaw in the Burst Statistics plugin. The vulnerability primarily affects the '/wp-json/burst/v1/data/compare' endpoint, where multiple JSON parameters are not sufficiently sanitized. As a result, attackers with sufficient access rights (editor level or higher) can manipulate SQL queries, leading to potential unauthorized database access. The risk posed by this vulnerability is significant, as it could lead to the exposure of sensitive information stored within the WordPress database. Remediation of this vulnerability has been achieved in the patched version 1.5.4.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are encouraged to update to the patched version 1.5.4 as soon as possible.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your website for any unusual database activities or unauthorized access, especially if you have users with editor-level access.
Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, consider using alternative analytics plugins as an additional precaution.
Stay Updated: Regularly update your plugins to the latest versions to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action taken by the developers of the Burst Statistics plugin to address this vulnerability emphasizes the critical importance of timely software updates. Users should ensure that they have updated to version 1.5.4 or later to secure their WordPress installations against this specific vulnerability.

References:

Introduction:

In the digital realm where websites act as the modern storefront, maintaining robust security is as crucial as locking the doors to your physical business. The recent discovery of a vulnerability in the widely used WordPress plugin, Burst Statistics – Privacy-Friendly Analytics for WordPress, is a stark reminder of the continuous battle against cyber threats. Known as CVE-2024-0405, this vulnerability underscores the ever-present need for vigilance and proactive measures in website security management.

Plugin Overview:

Burst Statistics, developed by rogierlankhorst, is a popular plugin designed to provide privacy-friendly analytics for WordPress websites. With over 1.47 million downloads and 100,000 active installations, its last update was on January 25, 2024. The plugin's purpose is to offer insightful analytics without compromising user privacy, a feature particularly appealing in today’s privacy-conscious online environment.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

This security flaw poses significant risks, as it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information stored within the WordPress database. Exploitation of this vulnerability can result in data breaches, loss of customer trust, and potentially, severe legal and financial repercussions, especially for small businesses that heavily rely on their online presence.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

This plugin had encountered one previous vulnerability since December 6, 2023, highlighting the importance of ongoing vigilance and regular updates in the cybersecurity landscape.

Conclusion and Advice for Small Business Owners:

For small business owners managing WordPress sites, the revelation of such vulnerabilities in commonly used plugins like Burst Statistics serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of cybersecurity. In today’s fast-paced digital world, staying on top of every security update and potential threat might seem daunting. However, neglecting this aspect can lead to serious security breaches. Employing managed WordPress hosting services that handle security updates, setting up regular reminders for manual checks, and subscribing to trusted cybersecurity newsletters are effective ways to stay informed with minimal effort.

In summary, maintaining the security of your WordPress site involves regular updates, continuous monitoring, and a proactive approach to potential threats. Understanding the nuances of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-0405 and taking timely action can significantly mitigate risks, safeguarding your business, your customers, and your reputation in the digital space.

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.

Burst Statistics Vulnerability – Authenticated (Editor+) SQL Injection – CVE-2024-0405 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the CVE-2024-0405 vulnerability in the Burst Statistics plugin?

CVE-2024-0405 is a security vulnerability identified in the Burst Statistics plugin for WordPress. This issue, known as an Authenticated SQL Injection vulnerability, affects versions up to and including 1.5.3. It allows attackers with editor-level access or higher to execute unauthorized SQL queries through various JSON parameters in the plugin's API.

The vulnerability arises due to insufficient sanitization of user-input data in the plugin. This flaw can potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data in the website's database, posing a significant risk to website security and user privacy.

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

To determine if your website is affected, you need to check the version of the Burst Statistics plugin installed on your WordPress site. Log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate Burst Statistics. If your plugin version is 1.5.3 or lower, your site is vulnerable.

It's important to regularly monitor your website for any unusual activities or changes, especially if you have users with editor or higher-level access. Such monitoring can help detect if your site has been compromised due to this vulnerability.

What steps should I take to update the Burst Statistics plugin?

Updating the Burst Statistics plugin is a straightforward process. First, log into your WordPress dashboard and go to the 'Plugins' section. Find the Burst Statistics plugin and check if there is an update available. If an update is shown, click the 'Update Now' button to initiate the process.

After updating, verify that your site is functioning correctly. It's also a good practice to make regular backups of your website, so you can restore it to a previous state if any issues arise post-update.

Can this vulnerability impact other plugins or WordPress themes?

While CVE-2024-0405 is specific to the Burst Statistics plugin, it does not directly affect other plugins or themes. However, vulnerabilities in one plugin can potentially weaken the overall security of a WordPress site, making it more susceptible to attacks that might exploit other components.

It's crucial to maintain all plugins and themes updated to their latest versions to ensure comprehensive security for your WordPress site. Regular updates include security patches that protect against known vulnerabilities.

What should I do if I think my website has been compromised?

If you suspect your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the Burst Statistics plugin to the latest version. Then, conduct a thorough review of your website for any unauthorized changes, particularly in user roles, access privileges, and database content.

In case of a confirmed breach, consider seeking assistance from a cybersecurity professional. They can help in cleaning up the site, strengthening security measures, and providing advice on preventing future attacks. Additionally, restoring your website from a backup made before the compromise can be an effective solution.

Are there alternative plugins I can use in place of Burst Statistics?

Yes, there are several alternative analytics plugins available for WordPress. When considering a switch, it's important to evaluate the features, security history, and user reviews of alternative plugins. Some popular options include Google Analytics by MonsterInsights, Jetpack by WordPress.com, and WP Statistics.

However, switching plugins should be done cautiously, as each plugin has its own set of functionalities and might require configuration changes to your site. It’s also worth noting that all plugins have the potential for vulnerabilities, so regular updates and security monitoring remain crucial.

How can I protect my WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities in the future?

To protect your WordPress site from similar vulnerabilities, regularly update all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core itself. Implement strong passwords, use two-factor authentication, and limit user access privileges based on necessity. Employing a security plugin that scans for vulnerabilities and monitors for suspicious activities can also be beneficial.

Staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is equally important. Subscribe to WordPress security blogs, newsletters, or join WordPress communities to keep up-to-date with minimal effort. A proactive approach to website security can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and cyber attacks.

What are the best practices for responding to a security vulnerability in a plugin?

When responding to a security vulnerability in a plugin, the first step is to apply any available updates promptly. If an update is not yet available, consider deactivating and removing the plugin temporarily until a patch is released. In some cases, replacing the vulnerable plugin with an alternative until the issue is resolved can be a safe strategy.

Regularly backup your website so you can restore it to a state before the vulnerability was exploited. If a breach occurs, review your site for unauthorized changes and consult with a cybersecurity professional if needed. Staying informed about the latest vulnerabilities and updates for your installed plugins is essential for timely responses.

Can updating the Burst Statistics plugin cause compatibility issues with my website?

While updating plugins is generally safe and recommended, there is a possibility that updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To mitigate this risk, it’s advisable to perform updates on a staging site first, if possible, or at least ensure that you have a recent backup before applying updates.

If issues arise after updating, you can revert to the backup and investigate the cause of the problem. You may need to consult with the plugin developers or a web development professional to resolve compatibility issues.

What should small business owners who manage WordPress sites know about website security?

Small business owners managing WordPress sites should understand that website security is an ongoing process, not a one-time setup. It involves regular updates of all software components, employing strong passwords and access controls, and monitoring the site for suspicious activities. Using security plugins and implementing basic security measures like SSL/TLS encryption can also enhance protection.

Considering managed WordPress hosting services can be a time-saving and effective solution, as they often include security updates and backups. Finally, staying informed about the latest security trends and threats is crucial, even for those with limited time, as it helps in making informed decisions about website security and management.

Share this post:

X (Twitter) Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Pocket SMS