Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-2949 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)?

What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)? Stored cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts run when the infected page is viewed, potentially stealing cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information that enables attackers to impersonate the user. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires a user to trigger the attack via a link or similar method, stored XSS is embedded directly into the web page and can affect any user viewing the malicious content.

Q: How do I update my WP Carousel plugin to the latest version?

How do I update my WP Carousel plugin to the latest version? To update your WP Carousel plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate WP Carousel. If an update is available, you will see a notification along with an option to update the plugin. Click 'Update Now,' and WordPress will automatically download and install the latest version. Ensure your website backups are current before performing updates to avoid data loss in the event of an issue.

Q: What should I do if my website is already affected by this vulnerability?

What should I do if my website is already affected by this vulnerability? If you suspect that your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, immediately update the plugin to the latest version to prevent further exploitation. After updating, review your website for any unusual changes or unknown content that may have been added and remove it. It is also advisable to reset passwords and inform your users to do the same, especially if sensitive information may have been accessed. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough audit of your site can also be beneficial.

Q: Can this vulnerability affect my website if I don't use the WP Carousel plugin?

Can this vulnerability affect my website if I don't use the WP Carousel plugin? If you do not use the WP Carousel plugin, this specific vulnerability will not affect your website. However, the underlying type of vulnerability—stored XSS—can exist in many plugins or themes. It's vital to keep all your site’s software up to date and regularly review security blogs and resources to stay informed about new vulnerabilities that may impact your other installations.

Q: Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Why is it important to update plugins regularly? Regularly updating plugins is crucial because it ensures that security patches and enhancements are applied, protecting your website from known vulnerabilities and exploits. Developers release updates not just to add features but also to fix bugs and security holes that could be exploited by attackers. Keeping plugins updated minimizes the risk of security breaches and maintains the stability and functionality of your website.

Q: What are some signs that my website has been compromised?

What are some signs that my website has been compromised? Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes in content, new administrative accounts that were not created by you, redirecting of your site to unfamiliar pages, a sudden drop in website performance, or warnings from browsers about your site being insecure. Regular monitoring of website traffic and user activities can help detect breaches early. It’s also helpful to use security plugins that can detect and notify you of suspicious activity.

Q: How can I prevent future XSS attacks?

How can I prevent future XSS attacks? To prevent future XSS attacks, ensure that any data received from users, especially data that will be output to other users, is properly sanitized and validated. Use security practices such as employing content security policies (CSP) that help detect and mitigate certain types of attacks, including XSS. Regularly updating all website software and educating users about secure practices are also key steps in preventing XSS vulnerabilities.

Q: Are there reliable alternatives to the WP Carousel plugin?

Are there reliable alternatives to the WP Carousel plugin? There are several reliable alternatives to the WP Carousel plugin that can be used to create carousels and sliders. Some popular options include Slider Revolution, LayerSlider, and Slick Slider, which are well-maintained and frequently updated. Before switching plugins, however, ensure that the alternative has a good security track record and is compatible with your version of WordPress.

Q: What is the role of a cybersecurity professional in managing website vulnerabilities?

What is the role of a cybersecurity professional in managing website vulnerabilities? A cybersecurity professional can help identify vulnerabilities, assess the security posture of your website, and implement measures to protect against threats. They can conduct audits, perform penetration testing, and provide ongoing monitoring and response solutions to address security issues. Their expertise is particularly valuable when dealing with sophisticated threats or after a security breach has been detected.

Q: How often should I back up my WordPress site?

How often should I back up my WordPress site? Backing up your WordPress site should be a regular part of your site maintenance routine. Ideally, backups should be performed before and after any major changes, such as updates to plugins or themes, and at regular intervals based on the frequency of your site’s content updates. Daily backups are recommended for active websites, with at least weekly backups for sites with less frequent updates. Using automated backup solutions can help ensure that backups are performed consistently and stored securely.

By Your WP Guy | April 5, 2024

Plugin Name: Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel – Image Carousel & Photo Gallery, Post Carousel & Post Grid, Product Carousel & Product Grid for WooCommerce

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: wp-carousel-free
Software Status: Active
Software Author: shapedplugin
Software Downloads: 1,321,112
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: April 15, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.6.4
Affected Versions: <= 2.6.3

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel <= 2.6.3
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via 'sp_wp_carousel_shortcode'
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2949
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 5, 2024
Researchers: Phuoc Pham (p3tl0v3r) - VNPT Cyber Immunity, Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the carousel widget in all versions up to, and including, 2.6.3 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.6.3 that exposes it to stored cross-site scripting issues. This vulnerability has been addressed and patched in version 2.6.4.

Detailed Overview:

The identified vulnerability pertains to the 'sp_wp_carousel_shortcode' function within the plugin, where user inputs were not adequately sanitized or escaped, leading to potential script injection. This issue could be exploited by any authenticated user with contributor-level privileges or higher, making it a significant risk for any site using an unpatched version of the plugin. The risks include unauthorized script execution which can lead to data theft, session hijacking, and defacement of the site.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users should update to the patched version 2.6.4 immediately to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review site logs and check for any unauthorized access or unusual activity, especially related to the 'sp_wp_carousel_shortcode' functionality.
Alternate Plugins: While the current vulnerability has been patched, users may consider exploring other carousel plugins as a precautionary measure, ensuring those alternatives are regularly updated and maintained.
Stay Updated: Continuously monitor and apply updates to all WordPress plugins and themes to protect against potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The quick resolution with a patch in version 2.6.4 by WP Carousel's developers highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and prompt action in software maintenance. Users are encouraged to ensure their installations are updated to version 2.6.4 or later, reinforcing their site's defenses against potential exploits.

References:

Detailed Report:

Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of digital technology, the security of your website hinges significantly on the promptness with which you apply updates to software components. A glaring example of the perils of oversight is the recent vulnerability discovered in the Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel plugin—a tool utilized by thousands to enhance their WordPress sites with dynamic content displays. Identified as CVE-2024-2949, this security flaw exposes sites to stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, potentially allowing malicious actors to inject harmful scripts that are executed when a user interacts with a compromised page. This vulnerability not only underscores the critical nature of regular software updates but also poses significant risks to user data and site integrity. If you're concerned about safeguarding your online presence, understanding this vulnerability, its implications, and the available remedies can significantly enhance your site's defenses against potential cyber threats.

Vulnerability Overview

The plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via the ‘sp_wp_carousel_shortcode’ in all versions up to and including 2.6.3. This vulnerability, catalogued under CVE-2024-2949 with a CVSS score of 6.4, was publicly disclosed on April 5, 2024, by researchers Phuoc Pham and Ngô Thiên An from VNPT Cyber Immunity. It arises due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes, allowing authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject arbitrary web scripts.

Risks and Potential Impacts

If exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to execute scripts in the user’s browser, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information, session hijacking, and defacement of the affected site. The wide functionalities impacted by this vulnerability make it a significant risk, especially for business websites that handle sensitive user data.

Remediation Steps

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 2.6.4 immediately via your WordPress dashboard.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your website logs for any unusual activity or unauthorized changes to website content.
Consult a Professional: If you suspect that your website has been compromised, it may be prudent to consult with a cybersecurity expert to conduct a thorough review and cleanup.

Previous Vulnerabilities

This is not the first vulnerability reported in this plugin; a previous issue was documented in December 2022, highlighting the need for ongoing vigilance and regular updates.

Conclusion

The prompt release of a patch for this vulnerability by WP Carousel’s developers in version 2.6.4 highlights the ongoing necessity of keeping all software components up to date to protect against exploits. For small business owners, managing a WordPress website doesn’t just involve content updates and marketing but also ensuring that all plugins are regularly reviewed and updated. Staying proactive in your website’s security measures is crucial—it protects not only your business operations but also your customers’ trust.

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.

Carousel, Slider, Gallery by WP Carousel Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-2949 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)?

Stored cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts run when the infected page is viewed, potentially stealing cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information that enables attackers to impersonate the user. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires a user to trigger the attack via a link or similar method, stored XSS is embedded directly into the web page and can affect any user viewing the malicious content.

How do I update my WP Carousel plugin to the latest version?

To update your WP Carousel plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate WP Carousel. If an update is available, you will see a notification along with an option to update the plugin. Click 'Update Now,' and WordPress will automatically download and install the latest version. Ensure your website backups are current before performing updates to avoid data loss in the event of an issue.

What should I do if my website is already affected by this vulnerability?

If you suspect that your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, immediately update the plugin to the latest version to prevent further exploitation. After updating, review your website for any unusual changes or unknown content that may have been added and remove it. It is also advisable to reset passwords and inform your users to do the same, especially if sensitive information may have been accessed. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional to conduct a thorough audit of your site can also be beneficial.

Can this vulnerability affect my website if I don't use the WP Carousel plugin?

If you do not use the WP Carousel plugin, this specific vulnerability will not affect your website. However, the underlying type of vulnerability—stored XSS—can exist in many plugins or themes. It's vital to keep all your site’s software up to date and regularly review security blogs and resources to stay informed about new vulnerabilities that may impact your other installations.

Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Regularly updating plugins is crucial because it ensures that security patches and enhancements are applied, protecting your website from known vulnerabilities and exploits. Developers release updates not just to add features but also to fix bugs and security holes that could be exploited by attackers. Keeping plugins updated minimizes the risk of security breaches and maintains the stability and functionality of your website.

What are some signs that my website has been compromised?

Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes in content, new administrative accounts that were not created by you, redirecting of your site to unfamiliar pages, a sudden drop in website performance, or warnings from browsers about your site being insecure. Regular monitoring of website traffic and user activities can help detect breaches early. It’s also helpful to use security plugins that can detect and notify you of suspicious activity.

How can I prevent future XSS attacks?

To prevent future XSS attacks, ensure that any data received from users, especially data that will be output to other users, is properly sanitized and validated. Use security practices such as employing content security policies (CSP) that help detect and mitigate certain types of attacks, including XSS. Regularly updating all website software and educating users about secure practices are also key steps in preventing XSS vulnerabilities.

Are there reliable alternatives to the WP Carousel plugin?

There are several reliable alternatives to the WP Carousel plugin that can be used to create carousels and sliders. Some popular options include Slider Revolution, LayerSlider, and Slick Slider, which are well-maintained and frequently updated. Before switching plugins, however, ensure that the alternative has a good security track record and is compatible with your version of WordPress.

What is the role of a cybersecurity professional in managing website vulnerabilities?

A cybersecurity professional can help identify vulnerabilities, assess the security posture of your website, and implement measures to protect against threats. They can conduct audits, perform penetration testing, and provide ongoing monitoring and response solutions to address security issues. Their expertise is particularly valuable when dealing with sophisticated threats or after a security breach has been detected.

How often should I back up my WordPress site?

Backing up your WordPress site should be a regular part of your site maintenance routine. Ideally, backups should be performed before and after any major changes, such as updates to plugins or themes, and at regular intervals based on the frequency of your site’s content updates. Daily backups are recommended for active websites, with at least weekly backups for sites with less frequent updates. Using automated backup solutions can help ensure that backups are performed consistently and stored securely.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2949, Digital Security, Plugin Updates, secure web practices, small business cybersecurity, website safety, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security, WP Carousel vulnerability, XSS attack prevention