Check & Log Email Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Hook Injection – CVE-2024-0866 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0866?

What is CVE-2024-0866? CVE-2024-0866 is a vulnerability identifier for a specific security flaw found within the Check & Log Email plugin for WordPress. This flaw, categorized under Unauthenticated Hook Injection, allows attackers to perform unauthorized actions on a WordPress site without needing to authenticate themselves. The vulnerability targets versions up to and including 1.0.9 of the Check & Log Email plugin. It exploits the check_nonce function, making it possible for attackers to execute arbitrary actions if they can deceive an administrator into clicking a malicious link.

Q: How do I know if my Check & Log Email plugin is vulnerable?

How do I know if my Check & Log Email plugin is vulnerable? To determine if your Check & Log Email plugin is vulnerable, you'll need to check the version of the plugin you're currently running on your WordPress site. Navigate to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and locate the Check & Log Email plugin to see the version number. If your plugin version is 1.0.9 or below, your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0866. It's crucial to update to version 1.0.10 or higher, where the vulnerability has been patched.

Q: What are the risks of not updating the Check & Log Email plugin?

What are the risks of not updating the Check & Log Email plugin? Not updating the Check & Log Email plugin to the patched version exposes your WordPress site to potential unauthorized actions by attackers. These actions could range from minor alterations to critical changes in site functionality or even compromising sensitive data. The nature of the vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authentication, meaning they wouldn't need login credentials to exploit the vulnerability. This significantly increases the risk and potential impact on your site.

Q: How can I update my Check & Log Email plugin to secure my site?

How can I update my Check & Log Email plugin to secure my site? Updating your Check & Log Email plugin is straightforward. In your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Plugins' section, where you'll see a list of all installed plugins. If there's an update available for Check & Log Email, you'll see an option to update it directly from there. Click the update link, and WordPress will automatically handle the rest. It's always a good practice to back up your website before performing updates, just in case you need to restore to a previous state.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins I can use if I'm concerned about security?

Are there any alternative plugins I can use if I'm concerned about security? If you're considering alternatives due to security concerns, there are several other plugins available that offer email logging and monitoring functionalities. However, it's important to assess any plugin for its security measures, update frequency, and user reviews before making a switch. Look for plugins that are actively maintained and have a good track record for responding to and addressing security issues. Remember, the most critical step is to keep whichever plugin you choose updated to its latest version.

Q: What does "Unauthenticated Hook Injection" mean?

What does "Unauthenticated Hook Injection" mean? Unauthenticated Hook Injection refers to a type of vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious code or execute unauthorized actions on a website without needing to authenticate or log in. This type of vulnerability exploits hooks, which are points in the WordPress code that allow for custom code execution. The danger lies in the ability of attackers to manipulate these hooks to perform actions as if they were a legitimate user or administrator, potentially leading to unauthorized changes or access to sensitive information.

Q: How serious is the CVE-2024-0866 vulnerability?

How serious is the CVE-2024-0866 vulnerability? With a Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 8.1, CVE-2024-0866 is considered a high-severity vulnerability. This score reflects the potential for significant impact due to the vulnerability, including the possibility of data compromise, integrity violation, and availability impact on affected WordPress sites. The high score is primarily due to the vulnerability's nature, allowing unauthenticated attackers to perform potentially harmful actions on a site without needing proper credentials.

Q: What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised?

What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised? If you suspect your site has been compromised, especially if you were running a vulnerable version of the Check & Log Email plugin, the first step is to update the plugin to the latest version. Following the update, change all WordPress passwords, especially for administrator accounts, and review your site for any unusual or unauthorized changes. Consider employing a security plugin that can scan your site for known vulnerabilities and malicious code. If the issue persists, seeking assistance from a professional specializing in WordPress security might be necessary.

Q: How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins? To maintain a secure WordPress site, it's recommended to check for plugin updates at least once a week. WordPress often notifies administrators of available updates in the dashboard, making it easier to keep track. Automating updates for plugins can also ensure timely installations, but it's still important to manually review and ensure everything is up to date, as some updates might require your approval or conflict with other site elements.

Q: What are some best practices for enhancing WordPress site security?

What are some best practices for enhancing WordPress site security? To enhance the security of your WordPress site, start by ensuring that all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core are updated to their latest versions. Regular updates are crucial as they often include patches for known vulnerabilities. Using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, especially for administrators, and implementing two-factor authentication can significantly improve your site's defense against unauthorized access. Additionally, employing a reputable security plugin can provide real-time protection against a wide range of threats, from malware to brute force attacks. Regular backups of your site are also essential, enabling quick recovery in case of a security breach or data loss. Staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices can further bolster your site's defenses.

By Your WP Guy | March 25, 2024

Plugin Name: Check & Log Email

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: check-email
Software Status: Active
Software Author: checkemail
Software Downloads: 1,430,487
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: March 25, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.0.10
Affected Versions: <= 1.0.9

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Check & Log Email <= 1.0.9
Title: Unauthenticated Hook Injection
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-0866
CVSS Score: 8.1
Publicly Published: March 25, 2024
Researcher: Sean Murphy
Description: The Check & Log Email plugin for WordPress, essential for monitoring and logging emails sent from your WordPress site, has been identified with a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.0.9. This vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the check_nonce function for Unauthenticated Hook Injection. This security flaw requires the attacker to know a nonce that is used in a hook that lacks a capability check, presenting a significant risk under certain conditions.

Summary:

The Check & Log Email plugin is vital for WordPress users who need to ensure the reliability of their email functionality. However, the discovery of an Unauthenticated Hook Injection vulnerability in versions up to 1.0.9 poses a serious security threat, potentially allowing attackers to execute arbitrary actions within WordPress. This vulnerability has been responsibly addressed in the newly released patch, version 1.0.10.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, unveiled by researcher Sean Murphy, highlights a concerning lapse in the security measures of the Check & Log Email plugin. The exploit hinges on the attacker's ability to manipulate hooks in WordPress without authentication, provided they can bypass the nonce check designed to prevent such unauthorized actions. The high CVSS score of 8.1 reflects the severity of this vulnerability, emphasizing the potential for data compromise, integrity violation, and availability impact on affected WordPress sites.

Advice for Users:

To protect your WordPress site from this vulnerability, it is imperative to update the Check & Log Email plugin to the patched version, 1.0.10, immediately. Additionally, site administrators should remain vigilant for signs of compromise and consider employing additional security measures, such as security plugins and regular security audits. While a patch is available, exploring alternative plugins offering similar functionality may also be advisable as a precautionary measure. Above all, the consistent updating of all WordPress components is crucial for maintaining a secure digital environment.

Conclusion:

The prompt resolution of this vulnerability by the developers of the Check & Log Email plugin underscores the critical nature of timely software updates in safeguarding WordPress sites. Users are encouraged to verify that their installations are updated to version 1.0.10 or later, ensuring protection against the identified Unauthenticated Hook Injection vulnerability and reinforcing their site's defenses against potential future threats.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today's digital ecosystem, the security and reliability of your WordPress website are foundational to maintaining a trustworthy online presence. This is particularly true when it comes to the plugins that extend your site's functionality, such as the Check & Log Email plugin, a critical tool for many WordPress users for email monitoring and logging. However, the recent uncovering of a vulnerability within this plugin up to version 1.0.9, identified as CVE-2024-0866, has brought to light the continuous need for diligence in updating and securing our digital tools.

About the Plugin

The Check & Log Email plugin, developed by checkemail, is an active and widely used WordPress plugin with over 1.4 million downloads and 100,000 active installs. It serves an essential function in monitoring email deliverability and performance directly from the WordPress dashboard. Despite its utility, the plugin was found to have a critical Unauthenticated Hook Injection vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.0.9, which was publicly disclosed on March 25, 2024.

Understanding the Vulnerability

The vulnerability, CVE-2024-0866, poses a significant security risk, allowing unauthenticated attackers to exploit the check_nonce function for Unauthenticated Hook Injection. This could enable attackers to execute arbitrary actions within WordPress under specific conditions, notably when a nonce used in a hook without a capability check is known to the attacker. With a CVSS score of 8.1, the severity of this vulnerability is clear, underlining the potential for data compromise, integrity violation, and availability impact on affected sites.

Potential Risks and Impacts

For WordPress site owners, especially small business owners who might already be stretched thin, this vulnerability signifies a potential threat not just to site functionality but to the security of sensitive data and user trust. Unaddressed, it could lead to unauthorized changes or actions within the WordPress admin area, posing a direct risk to site integrity and data security.

Remediation Steps

The developers of the Check & Log Email plugin have released a patched version, 1.0.10, to address this vulnerability. Users of the plugin are urged to update immediately to this latest version to secure their sites. Additionally, staying vigilant for signs of compromise and conducting regular security audits can further protect against potential exploits. For those concerned about ongoing security, considering alternative plugins with similar functionalities but stronger security records may also be advisable.

Historical Context

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in the Check & Log Email plugin, with four previous issues reported since November 12, 2016. This history of vulnerabilities serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of security threats and the importance of continuous monitoring and updating.

The Importance of Proactive Security

For small business owners managing a WordPress site, the discovery of this vulnerability in a widely-used plugin like Check & Log Email highlights the critical nature of proactive security practices. Regularly updating plugins, employing strong security measures, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities are essential steps in safeguarding your digital presence. In the fast-paced online world, the security of your website is not just about protecting data; it's about maintaining the trust and confidence of your users. Ensuring your digital tools are secure and up-to-date is a fundamental aspect of responsible digital ownership and a key to sustaining a reliable and trustworthy online presence.

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.

Check & Log Email Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Hook Injection – CVE-2024-0866 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0866?

CVE-2024-0866 is a vulnerability identifier for a specific security flaw found within the Check & Log Email plugin for WordPress. This flaw, categorized under Unauthenticated Hook Injection, allows attackers to perform unauthorized actions on a WordPress site without needing to authenticate themselves.

The vulnerability targets versions up to and including 1.0.9 of the Check & Log Email plugin. It exploits the check_nonce function, making it possible for attackers to execute arbitrary actions if they can deceive an administrator into clicking a malicious link.

How do I know if my Check & Log Email plugin is vulnerable?

To determine if your Check & Log Email plugin is vulnerable, you'll need to check the version of the plugin you're currently running on your WordPress site. Navigate to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and locate the Check & Log Email plugin to see the version number.

If your plugin version is 1.0.9 or below, your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0866. It's crucial to update to version 1.0.10 or higher, where the vulnerability has been patched.

What are the risks of not updating the Check & Log Email plugin?

Not updating the Check & Log Email plugin to the patched version exposes your WordPress site to potential unauthorized actions by attackers. These actions could range from minor alterations to critical changes in site functionality or even compromising sensitive data.

The nature of the vulnerability allows attackers to bypass authentication, meaning they wouldn't need login credentials to exploit the vulnerability. This significantly increases the risk and potential impact on your site.

How can I update my Check & Log Email plugin to secure my site?

Updating your Check & Log Email plugin is straightforward. In your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Plugins' section, where you'll see a list of all installed plugins. If there's an update available for Check & Log Email, you'll see an option to update it directly from there.

Click the update link, and WordPress will automatically handle the rest. It's always a good practice to back up your website before performing updates, just in case you need to restore to a previous state.

Are there any alternative plugins I can use if I'm concerned about security?

If you're considering alternatives due to security concerns, there are several other plugins available that offer email logging and monitoring functionalities. However, it's important to assess any plugin for its security measures, update frequency, and user reviews before making a switch.

Look for plugins that are actively maintained and have a good track record for responding to and addressing security issues. Remember, the most critical step is to keep whichever plugin you choose updated to its latest version.

What does "Unauthenticated Hook Injection" mean?

Unauthenticated Hook Injection refers to a type of vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious code or execute unauthorized actions on a website without needing to authenticate or log in. This type of vulnerability exploits hooks, which are points in the WordPress code that allow for custom code execution.

The danger lies in the ability of attackers to manipulate these hooks to perform actions as if they were a legitimate user or administrator, potentially leading to unauthorized changes or access to sensitive information.

How serious is the CVE-2024-0866 vulnerability?

With a Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score of 8.1, CVE-2024-0866 is considered a high-severity vulnerability. This score reflects the potential for significant impact due to the vulnerability, including the possibility of data compromise, integrity violation, and availability impact on affected WordPress sites.

The high score is primarily due to the vulnerability's nature, allowing unauthenticated attackers to perform potentially harmful actions on a site without needing proper credentials.

What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised?

If you suspect your site has been compromised, especially if you were running a vulnerable version of the Check & Log Email plugin, the first step is to update the plugin to the latest version. Following the update, change all WordPress passwords, especially for administrator accounts, and review your site for any unusual or unauthorized changes.

Consider employing a security plugin that can scan your site for known vulnerabilities and malicious code. If the issue persists, seeking assistance from a professional specializing in WordPress security might be necessary.

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

To maintain a secure WordPress site, it's recommended to check for plugin updates at least once a week. WordPress often notifies administrators of available updates in the dashboard, making it easier to keep track.

Automating updates for plugins can also ensure timely installations, but it's still important to manually review and ensure everything is up to date, as some updates might require your approval or conflict with other site elements.

What are some best practices for enhancing WordPress site security?

To enhance the security of your WordPress site, start by ensuring that all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core are updated to their latest versions. Regular updates are crucial as they often include patches for known vulnerabilities.

Using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, especially for administrators, and implementing two-factor authentication can significantly improve your site's defense against unauthorized access. Additionally, employing a reputable security plugin can provide real-time protection against a wide range of threats, from malware to brute force attacks. Regular backups of your site are also essential, enabling quick recovery in case of a security breach or data loss. Staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices can further bolster your site's defenses.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Check & Log Email plugin, CVE-2024-0866, cybersecurity for small businesses, digital safety., Plugin Updates, securing wordpress, unauthenticated hook injection, vulnerability patching, Website Protection, wordpress security