Calculated Fields Form Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0963 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0963?

What is CVE-2024-0963? CVE-2024-0963 is a unique identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the Calculated Fields Form WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, allowing attackers with at least contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts into web pages. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on February 1, 2024, after being discovered by researcher Richard Telleng. It affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.2.52, and it has been addressed in version 1.2.53.

Q: How does the Calculated Fields Form vulnerability affect my website?

How does the Calculated Fields Form vulnerability affect my website? The vulnerability within the Calculated Fields Form plugin can significantly compromise your website's security. Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser session, which can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and potentially taking control of the user's session. Such vulnerabilities undermine the integrity of your website and can erode user trust. It's crucial to address these vulnerabilities promptly to maintain a secure and reliable online presence.

Q: What steps should I take if my website uses a vulnerable version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

What steps should I take if my website uses a vulnerable version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin? If your website uses a version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin that is 1.2.52 or older, you should immediately update to the latest version, which includes a fix for the vulnerability. You can update the plugin through your WordPress dashboard by navigating to the Plugins section, finding Calculated Fields Form, and clicking the update option. After updating, it's advisable to review your website for any signs of compromise, such as unexpected changes to content or new, unknown user accounts. Regular monitoring and maintaining backups are also essential practices to enhance your website's resilience against attacks.

Q: What are the risks of not updating the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

What are the risks of not updating the Calculated Fields Form plugin? Failing to update the Calculated Fields Form plugin to the latest version leaves your website vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. Such vulnerabilities can be exploited to inject malicious code into your website, which can then be executed by users, leading to compromised user data, unauthorized access to admin areas, and potentially taking over the entire site. The risks extend beyond technical damage; they can also affect your website's reputation, user trust, and potentially lead to legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised. Regular updates are critical to mitigating these risks.

Q: Can this vulnerability be exploited by any visitor to my website?

Can this vulnerability be exploited by any visitor to my website? The vulnerability in the Calculated Fields Form plugin requires at least contributor-level access to be exploited. This means that not just any visitor can exploit the flaw; however, any user with sufficient permissions, such as contributors, authors, or administrators, could potentially inject malicious scripts if they have malicious intent. Despite the need for authenticated access, the vulnerability remains a significant concern, as accounts with such access can be compromised or misused, leading to unauthorized script injections.

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

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored on the server. These scripts are executed in the browsers of users who access the compromised pages, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the users, data theft, and other malicious outcomes. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts are permanently stored by the web application and can affect multiple users over time without the need for the attacker to directly target each victim.

Q: How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? To check for signs of compromise, start by reviewing the content of your website for any unauthorized changes, especially in posts, pages, and comments. Check the user accounts to ensure no unknown accounts have been created, and monitor user roles to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made. Additionally, employing security plugins that scan for malicious activity and reviewing access logs can help identify suspicious behavior. If you find evidence of compromise, consider engaging a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough investigation and remediation.

Q: Are there any alternatives to the Calculated Fields Form plugin that are secure?

Are there any alternatives to the Calculated Fields Form plugin that are secure? There are several form builder plugins available for WordPress that offer similar functionality to Calculated Fields Form. Alternatives like Gravity Forms, Formidable Forms, and Ninja Forms are popular and have strong reputations for security and support. However, no plugin is entirely immune to vulnerabilities. When choosing an alternative, it's crucial to research the plugin's history of security updates and user reviews. Regular updates and active support from the developers are good indicators of a secure and reliable plugin.

Q: How often are WordPress plugins like Calculated Fields Form updated for security?

How often are WordPress plugins like Calculated Fields Form updated for security? WordPress plugins vary widely in how frequently they are updated. Some are updated regularly to address security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve performance, while others may have less frequent updates. The Calculated Fields Form plugin, for example, has had several updates to address security issues, including the patch for CVE-2024-0963. Staying informed about the latest versions and security advisories for your installed plugins is essential. Enabling automatic updates for plugins can also help ensure you're always running the most secure versions.

Q: Why is it important to maintain regular backups of my WordPress site?

Why is it important to maintain regular backups of my WordPress site? Regular backups are a critical component of website security and management. In the event of a security breach, such as the exploitation of a vulnerability, having a recent backup allows you to restore your website to a state before the compromise, minimizing the impact on your data and operations. Backups also protect against data loss from other threats, such as server failures, accidental deletions, or corrupt files. Implementing a consistent backup strategy, with backups stored in a secure and separate location, ensures that you can quickly recover your site and reduce downtime.

By Your WP Guy | February 1, 2024

Plugin Name: Calculated Fields Form

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: calculated-fields-form
Software Status: Active
Software Author: codepeople
Software Downloads: 6,585,834
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: February 12, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.2.53
Affected Versions: <= 1.2.52

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Calculated Fields Form <= 1.2.52
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-0963
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: February 1, 2024
Researcher: Richard Telleng (stueotue)
Description: The Calculated Fields Form plugin for WordPress, known for its functionality to create dynamic forms with calculated fields, has been identified with a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.2.52. The vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the 'location' attribute of the plugin's CP_CALCULATED_FIELDS shortcode. Authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher can exploit this flaw to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts on pages, potentially compromising site integrity and user security.

Summary:

The Calculated Fields Form plugin, an essential tool for WordPress sites requiring dynamic form functionality, has a critical security flaw in versions up to 1.2.52. This vulnerability allows for Stored Cross-Site Scripting, posing significant risks to site security. The issue has been addressed in the newly released patch, version 1.2.53.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by security researcher Richard Telleng, this vulnerability highlights the importance of stringent input validation and output encoding practices. The flaw specifically targets the plugin's shortcode functionality, a common feature in WordPress plugins, underscoring the potential for widespread impact. The ability for attackers to execute scripts poses threats ranging from data theft to complete site compromise. The prompt release of a patch reflects the critical nature of the vulnerability and the need for immediate action by website administrators.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Upgrade to version 1.2.53 at the earliest to close the security gap.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your site for unexpected content changes or user complaints, which might indicate exploitation.
Alternate Plugins: Consider evaluating other form builder plugins with similar features but ensure they are also up-to-date and secure.
Stay Updated: Make it a habit to keep all your WordPress plugins, themes, and the core updated to the latest versions to mitigate vulnerability risks.

Conclusion:

The swift action taken by the developers of the Calculated Fields Form plugin to release a patch underscores the vital role of ongoing vigilance and prompt updates in maintaining website security. By updating to version 1.2.53, users can protect their WordPress installations from potential exploitation. This incident serves as a reminder of the ever-present need for proactive security measures in the digital landscape.

References:

In the fast-paced digital world, the security of your website is paramount. The discovery of a significant vulnerability in the "Calculated Fields Form" WordPress plugin—CVE-2024-0963—serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present cyber threats. This plugin, revered for its ability to create dynamic forms, is a staple for many WordPress sites, making the impact of such vulnerabilities far-reaching.

Plugin Overview:

"Calculated Fields Form" is a versatile tool enabling site owners to build forms with dynamically calculated fields, ideal for quotations, bookings, and more. With over 6 million downloads and 60,000 active installations, its widespread use underlines the potential scale of the threat posed by the recent security flaw.

Vulnerability Insights:

The vulnerability, identified in versions up to and including 1.2.52, was uncovered by researcher Richard Telleng. It arises from insufficient sanitization and escaping within the 'location' attribute of the CP_CALCULATED_FIELDS shortcode, allowing attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject harmful scripts. This Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, cataloged as CVE-2024-0963 with a CVSS score of 6.4, exposes websites to various risks including data breaches, unauthorized access, and a tarnished reputation due to compromised site integrity.

Potential Risks and Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences, such as theft of sensitive data, unauthorized changes to website content, and distribution of malware to unsuspecting users. The breach of trust between a website and its users can have long-lasting effects, damaging the credibility and reliability of the site in the eyes of its visitors.

Remediation Steps:

To mitigate the risks, it's crucial to update the plugin to the patched version, 1.2.53, immediately. Website owners should also conduct thorough reviews for any unusual activities or content alterations that may indicate the site's compromise. Keeping all components of a WordPress site updated, including themes and other plugins, is essential in maintaining a secure online presence.

Historical Context:

This is not the plugin's first encounter with security issues; there have been 7 previous vulnerabilities reported since March 2, 2015. This history emphasizes the importance of continuous vigilance and the need for an ongoing commitment to security practices.

Concluding Thoughts:

For small business owners, the task of continuously monitoring and updating a WordPress site may seem daunting amidst myriad other responsibilities. However, the security of your website should never be an afterthought. Ignoring updates can leave your site vulnerable to attacks, jeopardizing not only your data but also your reputation and the trust of your users. Implementing routine security checks and updates is a critical investment in your business's online health and longevity. Leveraging managed WordPress hosting services or employing security plugins can alleviate some of the burdens, ensuring that your site remains secure even when your focus is needed elsewhere.

In the digital age, staying ahead of potential threats through proactive security measures is not just advisable; it's imperative for safeguarding your digital footprint and maintaining the trust of those who visit your online 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.

Calculated Fields Form Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0963 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0963?

CVE-2024-0963 is a unique identifier for a specific security vulnerability found in the Calculated Fields Form WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, allowing attackers with at least contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on February 1, 2024, after being discovered by researcher Richard Telleng. It affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.2.52, and it has been addressed in version 1.2.53.

How does the Calculated Fields Form vulnerability affect my website?

The vulnerability within the Calculated Fields Form plugin can significantly compromise your website's security. Attackers can exploit this flaw to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of a user's browser session, which can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and potentially taking control of the user's session.

Such vulnerabilities undermine the integrity of your website and can erode user trust. It's crucial to address these vulnerabilities promptly to maintain a secure and reliable online presence.

What steps should I take if my website uses a vulnerable version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

If your website uses a version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin that is 1.2.52 or older, you should immediately update to the latest version, which includes a fix for the vulnerability. You can update the plugin through your WordPress dashboard by navigating to the Plugins section, finding Calculated Fields Form, and clicking the update option.

After updating, it's advisable to review your website for any signs of compromise, such as unexpected changes to content or new, unknown user accounts. Regular monitoring and maintaining backups are also essential practices to enhance your website's resilience against attacks.

What are the risks of not updating the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

Failing to update the Calculated Fields Form plugin to the latest version leaves your website vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. Such vulnerabilities can be exploited to inject malicious code into your website, which can then be executed by users, leading to compromised user data, unauthorized access to admin areas, and potentially taking over the entire site.

The risks extend beyond technical damage; they can also affect your website's reputation, user trust, and potentially lead to legal consequences if sensitive data is compromised. Regular updates are critical to mitigating these risks.

Can this vulnerability be exploited by any visitor to my website?

The vulnerability in the Calculated Fields Form plugin requires at least contributor-level access to be exploited. This means that not just any visitor can exploit the flaw; however, any user with sufficient permissions, such as contributors, authors, or administrators, could potentially inject malicious scripts if they have malicious intent.

Despite the need for authenticated access, the vulnerability remains a significant concern, as accounts with such access can be compromised or misused, leading to unauthorized script injections.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored on the server. These scripts are executed in the browsers of users who access the compromised pages, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the users, data theft, and other malicious outcomes.

Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts are permanently stored by the web application and can affect multiple users over time without the need for the attacker to directly target each victim.

How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

To check for signs of compromise, start by reviewing the content of your website for any unauthorized changes, especially in posts, pages, and comments. Check the user accounts to ensure no unknown accounts have been created, and monitor user roles to ensure no unauthorized changes have been made.

Additionally, employing security plugins that scan for malicious activity and reviewing access logs can help identify suspicious behavior. If you find evidence of compromise, consider engaging a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough investigation and remediation.

Are there any alternatives to the Calculated Fields Form plugin that are secure?

There are several form builder plugins available for WordPress that offer similar functionality to Calculated Fields Form. Alternatives like Gravity Forms, Formidable Forms, and Ninja Forms are popular and have strong reputations for security and support. However, no plugin is entirely immune to vulnerabilities.

When choosing an alternative, it's crucial to research the plugin's history of security updates and user reviews. Regular updates and active support from the developers are good indicators of a secure and reliable plugin.

How often are WordPress plugins like Calculated Fields Form updated for security?

WordPress plugins vary widely in how frequently they are updated. Some are updated regularly to address security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve performance, while others may have less frequent updates. The Calculated Fields Form plugin, for example, has had several updates to address security issues, including the patch for CVE-2024-0963.

Staying informed about the latest versions and security advisories for your installed plugins is essential. Enabling automatic updates for plugins can also help ensure you're always running the most secure versions.

Why is it important to maintain regular backups of my WordPress site?

Regular backups are a critical component of website security and management. In the event of a security breach, such as the exploitation of a vulnerability, having a recent backup allows you to restore your website to a state before the compromise, minimizing the impact on your data and operations.

Backups also protect against data loss from other threats, such as server failures, accidental deletions, or corrupt files. Implementing a consistent backup strategy, with backups stored in a secure and separate location, ensures that you can quickly recover your site and reduce downtime.

Share this post:

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

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Calculated Fields Form, CVE-2024-0963, cyber security, Plugin Updates, Plugin Vulnerability, Site Integrity, small business web security, Website Maintenance, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Calculated Fields Form

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Insights:

Potential Risks and Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

Historical Context:

Concluding Thoughts:

Staying Secure

Calculated Fields Form Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0963 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0963?

How does the Calculated Fields Form vulnerability affect my website?

What steps should I take if my website uses a vulnerable version of the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

What are the risks of not updating the Calculated Fields Form plugin?

Can this vulnerability be exploited by any visitor to my website?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Are there any alternatives to the Calculated Fields Form plugin that are secure?

How often are WordPress plugins like Calculated Fields Form updated for security?

Why is it important to maintain regular backups of my WordPress site?

Why is it important to maintain regular backups of my WordPress site?

Share this post:

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Recent Blog Posts

LiteSpeed Cache Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Sensitive Information Exposure via Log Files – CVE-2024-44000 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Multiple Parameters – CVE-2024-4401, CVE-2024-7122 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

The Post Grid – Shortcode, Gutenberg Blocks and Elementor Addon for Post Grid Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Information Disclosure – CVE-2024-7418 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Additional Resources

About Your WP Guy