Collapse-O-Matic Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2023-7030| WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What exactly is an XSS vulnerability?

What exactly is an XSS vulnerability? An XSS vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts can be used to steal information, such as login credentials or personal data, directly from the browsers of the website’s visitors. Because the scripts appear to be part of the legitimate website, they can often bypass access controls that the browser would otherwise enforce.

Q: How do I know if my WordPress site uses the Collapse-O-Matic plugin?

How do I know if my WordPress site uses the Collapse-O-Matic plugin? To check if your site uses the Collapse-O-Matic plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here, you can see a list of all installed plugins. If Collapse-O-Matic is installed, it will appear in this list. Regularly reviewing your installed plugins can help you manage updates and understand more about the tools your site relies on.

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

What should I do if my website is affected by this vulnerability? If your website uses a vulnerable version of the Collapse-O-Matic plugin, update it immediately to the latest patched version, which is 1.8.5.6. This version addresses the XSS vulnerability and helps protect your site from potential attacks. After updating, check your site for any unusual activity or scripts that might have been added before the update was applied.

Q: Can I just uninstall the Collapse-O-Matic plugin if I'm concerned about security?

Can I just uninstall the Collapse-O-Matic plugin if I'm concerned about security? Uninstalling the Collapse-O-Matic plugin is an option if you are concerned about ongoing security risks or if you find the updates and maintenance too frequent. However, if the functionality provided by the plugin is essential to your site, consider finding a more secure alternative that offers similar features. Always ensure any new plugin you install is from a reputable source and regularly updated by its developers.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Many attacks target known vulnerabilities in outdated plugins, so keeping your software up to date is a critical part of maintaining site security. Automating updates where possible can help ensure that you don’t miss important security improvements.

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

What are the signs that my website has been compromised? Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to web content, new user accounts with administrative privileges, suspicious redirects or pop-ups, and slow website performance. Regular monitoring of your website’s files and databases is crucial for detecting anomalies quickly. Additionally, using security plugins that scan for malware and vulnerabilities can help identify issues before they cause significant damage.

Q: What can happen if I don't fix an XSS vulnerability?

What can happen if I don't fix an XSS vulnerability? Ignoring an XSS vulnerability can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and loss of user trust. Attackers can use XSS to take control of a user’s account, steal personal data, or even redirect visitors to malicious websites. The consequences of such attacks can be severe, impacting both your website’s reputation and your users’ security.

Q: Is there a way to receive notifications about vulnerabilities in plugins I use?

Is there a way to receive notifications about vulnerabilities in plugins I use? Many WordPress security plugins and services offer the functionality to monitor your plugins for vulnerabilities and alert you when a potential threat is detected. Additionally, subscribing to security blogs and websites that track WordPress vulnerabilities can keep you informed about new threats and the latest security practices. Staying proactive about security is key in managing a secure WordPress site.

Q: How can I make sure my plugin updates are safe to install?

How can I make sure my plugin updates are safe to install? Before installing any update, it’s important to verify that it’s from a legitimate source, ideally directly through the WordPress plugin repository or from the plugin developer’s official site. Read the changelog for the update to understand what changes have been made, especially those related to security. You can also check community forums and reviews for any issues with the new version before updating.

Q: Are there alternatives to the Collapse-O-Matic plugin that are considered more secure?

Are there alternatives to the Collapse-O-Matic plugin that are considered more secure? While the Collapse-O-Matic plugin is popular for creating collapsible text, there are other plugins available that offer similar functionality with a strong focus on security. Plugins such as Accordion or Tabby Responsive Tabs are regularly updated and maintained by developers committed to security. Always research and compare different plugins to find the one that best meets your needs and maintains a good security record.

By Your WP Guy | April 23, 2024

Plugin Name: Collapse-O-Matic

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: jquery-collapse-o-matic
Software Status: Active
Software Author: baden03
Software Downloads: 1,284,998
Active Installs: 50,000
Last Updated: May 9, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.8.5.6
Affected Versions: <= 1.8.5.5

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Collapse-O-Matic <= 1.8.5.5
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-7030
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 23, 2024
Researcher: Richard Telleng (stueotue)
Description: The Collapse-O-Matic plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's 'expand' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 1.8.5.5 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the 'tag' user supplied attribute. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Collapse-O-Matic for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.8.5.5 that allows for stored cross-site scripting via the plugin's shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 1.8.5.6.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in Collapse-O-Matic was identified by researcher Richard Telleng. It resides in the 'expand' shortcode, specifically in the 'tag' attribute which lacks proper sanitization, allowing stored XSS attacks. This issue could enable attackers to execute scripts on the browser of anyone who accesses a compromised page. The risks include unauthorized data access and manipulation, potentially leading to wider system compromises. The remediation for this issue has been addressed in the patched version.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 1.8.5.6 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review your website pages for unexpected or unusual scripts in the 'expand' shortcodes.
Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, consider exploring other plugins offering similar functionality as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Keep your plugins updated to the latest versions to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action by the developers of Collapse-O-Matic to release a patch highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software. Users are advised to upgrade to version 1.8.5.6 or later to protect their WordPress installations against this vulnerability.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the ever-evolving landscape of website management, the importance of maintaining an updated and secure system cannot be overstated. A recent discovery in the WordPress plugin, Collapse-O-Matic, highlights this critical need. Known for its utility in creating collapsible text blocks, this plugin is integral to over 50,000 websites. However, the identification of a serious vulnerability, tagged as CVE-2023-7030, puts numerous sites at risk of unauthorized data manipulation and exposure.

Understanding the Vulnerability in Collapse-O-Matic

The issue lies in the plugin's 'expand' shortcode. Due to inadequate sanitization and escaping of the 'tag' attribute, attackers with contributor-level access or higher can inject malicious scripts. This vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.8.5.5 and has been addressed in the recently released patch 1.8.5.6. The gravity of this risk is underscored by a CVSS score of 6.4, indicating a substantial threat.

Historical Context and Recurring Security Challenges

This is not the first time Collapse-O-Matic has faced security challenges; since December 28, 2022, two other vulnerabilities have been documented, pointing to an ongoing battle against threats that could compromise user data and site integrity.

Risks and Potential Impacts

The exploitation of this XSS vulnerability could allow attackers to perform a range of malicious activities, from stealing user data to taking control of the affected websites. The implications are especially severe for small businesses, where such breaches can lead to significant reputational and financial damage.

Immediate Steps for Remediation

To protect your website:

Update immediately to the latest version, 1.8.5.6, which contains the necessary security patches.
Inspect your site for unusual scripts or alterations in the 'expand' shortcodes that could indicate compromise.
Consider alternatives if continuous updates and monitoring are a challenge, exploring other plugins that fulfill similar functions but with a stronger security record.

Advice for Small Business Owners

For small business owners, the challenge of staying on top of potential security vulnerabilities can be daunting due to limited time and resources. However, the risks of not doing so—ranging from data breaches to complete site takeovers—are too significant to ignore. Leveraging tools like managed WordPress hosting services, automated update features, and engaging with security professionals for regular audits can mitigate these risks significantly.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Vigilance

The quick response by Collapse-O-Matic's developers to patch this vulnerability illustrates the dynamic nature of web security and the perpetual need for vigilance. As a small business owner, it is paramount to prioritize these updates and consider a proactive approach to security. Regularly reviewing plugin updates, understanding the specific functionalities and potential vulnerabilities of each, and maintaining a robust backup system are essential practices that help safeguard your digital assets against evolving threats.

Staying informed and prepared is not just about fixing what's broken; it's about preventing issues before they compromise your site and your business.

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.

Collapse-O-Matic Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2023-7030| WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What exactly is an XSS vulnerability?

An XSS vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts can be used to steal information, such as login credentials or personal data, directly from the browsers of the website’s visitors. Because the scripts appear to be part of the legitimate website, they can often bypass access controls that the browser would otherwise enforce.

How do I know if my WordPress site uses the Collapse-O-Matic plugin?

To check if your site uses the Collapse-O-Matic plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here, you can see a list of all installed plugins. If Collapse-O-Matic is installed, it will appear in this list. Regularly reviewing your installed plugins can help you manage updates and understand more about the tools your site relies on.

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

If your website uses a vulnerable version of the Collapse-O-Matic plugin, update it immediately to the latest patched version, which is 1.8.5.6. This version addresses the XSS vulnerability and helps protect your site from potential attacks. After updating, check your site for any unusual activity or scripts that might have been added before the update was applied.

Can I just uninstall the Collapse-O-Matic plugin if I'm concerned about security?

Uninstalling the Collapse-O-Matic plugin is an option if you are concerned about ongoing security risks or if you find the updates and maintenance too frequent. However, if the functionality provided by the plugin is essential to your site, consider finding a more secure alternative that offers similar features. Always ensure any new plugin you install is from a reputable source and regularly updated by its developers.

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Many attacks target known vulnerabilities in outdated plugins, so keeping your software up to date is a critical part of maintaining site security. Automating updates where possible can help ensure that you don’t miss important security improvements.

What are the signs that my website has been compromised?

Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to web content, new user accounts with administrative privileges, suspicious redirects or pop-ups, and slow website performance. Regular monitoring of your website’s files and databases is crucial for detecting anomalies quickly. Additionally, using security plugins that scan for malware and vulnerabilities can help identify issues before they cause significant damage.

What can happen if I don't fix an XSS vulnerability?

Ignoring an XSS vulnerability can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and loss of user trust. Attackers can use XSS to take control of a user’s account, steal personal data, or even redirect visitors to malicious websites. The consequences of such attacks can be severe, impacting both your website’s reputation and your users’ security.

Is there a way to receive notifications about vulnerabilities in plugins I use?

Many WordPress security plugins and services offer the functionality to monitor your plugins for vulnerabilities and alert you when a potential threat is detected. Additionally, subscribing to security blogs and websites that track WordPress vulnerabilities can keep you informed about new threats and the latest security practices. Staying proactive about security is key in managing a secure WordPress site.

How can I make sure my plugin updates are safe to install?

Before installing any update, it’s important to verify that it’s from a legitimate source, ideally directly through the WordPress plugin repository or from the plugin developer’s official site. Read the changelog for the update to understand what changes have been made, especially those related to security. You can also check community forums and reviews for any issues with the new version before updating.

Are there alternatives to the Collapse-O-Matic plugin that are considered more secure?

While the Collapse-O-Matic plugin is popular for creating collapsible text, there are other plugins available that offer similar functionality with a strong focus on security. Plugins such as Accordion or Tabby Responsive Tabs are regularly updated and maintained by developers committed to security. Always research and compare different plugins to find the one that best meets your needs and maintains a good security record.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Collapse-O-Matic, CVE-2023-7030, patch management, Plugin Update, small business cybersecurity, web security tips, Website Security, wordpress plugins, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability