Clone Vulnerability – Missing Authorization – CVE-2024-31435 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-31435?

What is CVE-2024-31435? CVE-2024-31435 is a security identifier for a vulnerability found in the Clone plugin for WordPress. This specific vulnerability is related to missing authorization checks that allow authenticated users, even those with minimal permissions, to perform actions intended for higher-level administrative access. This could potentially allow unauthorized changes to the website, posing serious security risks.

Q: How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site? If your site uses the Clone plugin and is running a version up to and including 2.4.3, it may be at risk. The vulnerability allows lower-level users to execute administrative actions, which could lead to unauthorized changes or data breaches. It's crucial to update the plugin to the patched version to close this security loophole and protect your site.

Q: How can I check if my plugin version is vulnerable?

How can I check if my plugin version is vulnerable? To check your plugin version, navigate to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard. Find the Clone plugin listed among your installations and check the version number displayed. If it is version 2.4.3 or below, your plugin is vulnerable and needs to be updated immediately.

Q: What should I do if my plugin is vulnerable?

What should I do if my plugin is vulnerable? If your Clone plugin is vulnerable, update it immediately to version 2.4.4, which contains the necessary security patches. Always ensure that you have backups of your website before performing updates to avoid any data loss in case something goes wrong during the update process.

Q: Where can I update the Clone plugin?

Where can I update the Clone plugin? You can update the Clone plugin directly from your WordPress dashboard. Go to the 'Plugins' section, locate the Clone plugin, and you will see an option to update it if a new version is available. Click the update button, and the latest version will be automatically installed.

Q: What immediate actions should I take after updating the plugin?

What immediate actions should I take after updating the plugin? After updating the plugin, it's wise to review your website’s activity logs to check for any unauthorized actions that might have been performed before the update. Ensure that all user roles and permissions are correctly set and have not been tampered with. Regular monitoring of your site’s security is essential in catching and mitigating any potential threats.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Clone that I should consider?

Are there alternative plugins to Clone that I should consider? If you are considering alternatives to the Clone plugin due to security concerns or other reasons, there are several other reputable plugins available for WordPress that offer similar functionality. When choosing an alternative, look for plugins that have a strong track record of security and regular updates.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? It is recommended to update WordPress plugins as soon as new updates are released. Developers frequently update plugins to patch security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, or enhance compatibility with the latest version of WordPress. Enabling automatic updates can help in maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention.

Q: Why is it important to maintain updated software on my WordPress site?

Why is it important to maintain updated software on my WordPress site? Maintaining updated software is crucial for protecting your site against known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Updates often include security patches that address specific issues, enhancements that improve stability, and compatibility adjustments that ensure seamless operation with the core WordPress system.

Q: What general tips can help improve the security of my WordPress site?

What general tips can help improve the security of my WordPress site? To improve the security of your WordPress site, consider implementing strong passwords, using a security plugin that includes firewall and malware scanning capabilities, regularly backing up your site, and limiting login attempts to prevent brute force attacks. Additionally, educating yourself and staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is crucial in maintaining a secure online presence.

By Your WP Guy | April 10, 2024

Plugin Name: Clone

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: wp-clone-by-wp-academy
Software Status: Active
Software Author: migrate
Software Downloads: 3,222,101
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: April 24, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.4.4
Affected Versions: <= 2.4.3

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Inisev Analyst Module <= 2.4.3
Title: Missing Authorization
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-31435
CVSS Score: 4.3
Publicly Published: April 10, 2024
Researcher: Dhabaleshwar Das
Description: Multiple plugins and/or themes by Inisev for WordPress are vulnerable to unauthorized access due to missing capability checks on several functions in various versions. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access or above, to perform unauthorized actions.

Summary:

The Clone plugin for WordPress contains a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.4.3 that permits unauthorized actions due to missing authorization checks. This vulnerability has been addressed in version 2.4.4.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in the Clone plugin highlights a significant security oversight in the Inisev Analyst Module, where specific functions lacked proper capability checks. This flaw could allow users with basic access levels, such as subscribers, to perform actions typically reserved for higher-level users, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation. The patched version 2.4.4 resolves these authorization issues, enhancing security measures to prevent such exploits.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users should update to the patched version, 2.4.4, immediately to secure their installations against this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators are advised to review user activity logs for any unexpected or unauthorized actions that might have exploited this vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: While the current version is secure, users concerned about past vulnerabilities may consider exploring alternative backup or cloning plugins that maintain a strong record of security.
Stay Updated: Keeping software updated to the latest versions is crucial in protecting against vulnerabilities and ensuring the highest security and functionality of your WordPress site.

Conclusion:

The prompt resolution of the missing authorization vulnerability in the Clone plugin underscores the importance of regular software updates and vigilant security practices. By updating to version 2.4.4, users can safeguard their WordPress installations from potential unauthorized access and maintain the integrity of their sites. This incident serves as a reminder of the constant need to monitor and update software components to defend against evolving security threats.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the digital age, the security of your website extends far beyond just protecting your content—it safeguards your reputation, your data, and the trust your users place in you. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability in the "Clone" plugin, a tool used by over 80,000 WordPress sites, serves as a critical reminder of the stakes involved. Named CVE-2024-31435, this vulnerability exposes sites to potential unauthorized actions due to missing authorization checks, emphasizing the ever-present need for vigilance in software management.

About the Plugin: Clone

The Clone plugin, developed by migrate, is popular among WordPress users for its ability to duplicate sites for migration or backup purposes. It boasts over 3 million downloads and supports 80,000 active installs. Despite its widespread use and utility, the plugin was recently found to be running versions susceptible to a security loophole, specifically in versions up to and including 2.4.3.

Vulnerability Details

CVE-2024-31435 affects the Clone plugin due to missing authorization checks within the Inisev Analyst Module, particularly in the element_pack_ajax_search function. This flaw allows authenticated users with even the lowest level of access to perform tasks typically reserved for administrators. The vulnerability, with a CVSS score of 4.3, was identified by researcher Dhabaleshwar Das and published on April 10, 2024.

Risks and Potential Impacts

This security gap could allow users with minimal permissions, such as subscribers, to execute actions that should be restricted to higher-level administrators, posing a serious risk of data breaches or unauthorized site changes. Such vulnerabilities could lead to significant disruptions, including the loss of sensitive data or even full control over the website, which could be disastrous for businesses relying on their digital presence.

Remediation Steps

Upon recognizing the vulnerability, the developers promptly released an updated version, 2.4.4, which addresses and patches the missing authorization checks. Website owners are urged to update their installations immediately to this new version to secure their sites effectively. It's also advisable for administrators to monitor activity logs for any unusual actions that might indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities

The Clone plugin has experienced five documented vulnerabilities since March 8, 2023. Each has been resolved with updates, demonstrating the developers' commitment to security and the plugin’s integrity.

Conclusion

The swift response to patch the CVE-2024-31435 vulnerability in the Clone plugin underscores the crucial importance of keeping software up-to-date. For small business owners who manage their WordPress sites, this incident highlights the necessity of regular maintenance and vigilance. Updating plugins not only resolves known vulnerabilities but also ensures that the website operates smoothly and securely, protecting both business operations and customer data. In an era where digital threats are constantly evolving, maintaining security isn't just a practice—it's a mandatory aspect of digital stewardship.

This comprehensive article aims to educate WordPress users, particularly small business owners, on the importance of vigilance in cybersecurity practices, through a detailed examination of the recent vulnerability within the "Clone" plugin.

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.

Clone Vulnerability – Missing Authorization – CVE-2024-31435 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-31435?

CVE-2024-31435 is a security identifier for a vulnerability found in the Clone plugin for WordPress. This specific vulnerability is related to missing authorization checks that allow authenticated users, even those with minimal permissions, to perform actions intended for higher-level administrative access. This could potentially allow unauthorized changes to the website, posing serious security risks.

How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

If your site uses the Clone plugin and is running a version up to and including 2.4.3, it may be at risk. The vulnerability allows lower-level users to execute administrative actions, which could lead to unauthorized changes or data breaches. It's crucial to update the plugin to the patched version to close this security loophole and protect your site.

How can I check if my plugin version is vulnerable?

What should I do if my plugin is vulnerable?

Where can I update the Clone plugin?

What immediate actions should I take after updating the plugin?

After updating the plugin, it's wise to review your website’s activity logs to check for any unauthorized actions that might have been performed before the update. Ensure that all user roles and permissions are correctly set and have not been tampered with. Regular monitoring of your site’s security is essential in catching and mitigating any potential threats.

Are there alternative plugins to Clone that I should consider?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

It is recommended to update WordPress plugins as soon as new updates are released. Developers frequently update plugins to patch security vulnerabilities, improve functionality, or enhance compatibility with the latest version of WordPress. Enabling automatic updates can help in maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention.

Why is it important to maintain updated software on my WordPress site?

Maintaining updated software is crucial for protecting your site against known vulnerabilities that can be exploited by attackers. Updates often include security patches that address specific issues, enhancements that improve stability, and compatibility adjustments that ensure seamless operation with the core WordPress system.

What general tips can help improve the security of my WordPress site?

To improve the security of your WordPress site, consider implementing strong passwords, using a security plugin that includes firewall and malware scanning capabilities, regularly backing up your site, and limiting login attempts to prevent brute force attacks. Additionally, educating yourself and staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is crucial in maintaining a secure online presence.

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