Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder Vulnerability – Multiple Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-6703, CVE-2024-6521, CVE-2024-6518, CVE-2024-6520 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and how does it impact my website?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and how does it impact my website? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into a website, which are then executed when other users access the affected pages. In the context of the Fluent Forms plugin, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to insert harmful code into form fields, leading to unauthorized actions or data exposure. The impact of such vulnerabilities can be severe, potentially compromising your website's security and damaging your reputation.

Q: How serious are the vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin?

How serious are the vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin? The vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin are serious because they allow authenticated users with varying levels of access to exploit the site by injecting malicious scripts. Although the CVSS scores range from 4.4 to 4.9, indicating moderate severity, the potential consequences—such as unauthorized content changes and data breaches—can be significant. It is crucial to address these vulnerabilities promptly to avoid further risks.

Q: What immediate steps should I take to secure my website?

What immediate steps should I take to secure my website? The first and most critical step is to update the Fluent Forms plugin to version 5.1.20 or later, which patches the vulnerabilities. After updating, review your website for any signs of unusual activity or changes, particularly in form fields and user-generated content areas. If you detect anything suspicious, consider consulting a security professional to conduct a comprehensive audit.

Q: How can I tell if my website has already been compromised?

How can I tell if my website has already been compromised? Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes in content, the presence of unfamiliar scripts, or abnormal behavior in your forms or user-generated content areas. Reviewing your server logs for unusual activity and running a security scan can help identify potential issues. If you suspect a compromise, it's advisable to seek assistance from a security expert to mitigate any damage.

Q: Why do these vulnerabilities mainly affect multi-site installations and those with unfiltered_html disabled?

Why do these vulnerabilities mainly affect multi-site installations and those with unfiltered_html disabled? Multi-site installations and environments where unfiltered_html is disabled have stricter content filtering settings, which are meant to enhance security. However, these configurations can also make certain vulnerabilities more impactful if exploited. In the case of the Fluent Forms plugin, these settings increase the scope and risk of the vulnerabilities by making it easier for attackers to inject malicious scripts into multiple sites or bypass certain restrictions.

Q: What are the risks of not updating the Fluent Forms plugin?

What are the risks of not updating the Fluent Forms plugin? Failing to update the Fluent Forms plugin leaves your website vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. This could result in unauthorized access to your website, data breaches, or malicious code being executed on your site, potentially leading to loss of customer trust and financial damages. The longer your site remains unpatched, the higher the risk of exploitation.

Q: Should I consider switching to an alternative form builder plugin?

Should I consider switching to an alternative form builder plugin? If you are concerned about the security history of the Fluent Forms plugin, you might consider exploring alternative form builder plugins that offer similar functionality with a stronger security record. Before making any changes, ensure that the new plugin meets your needs and is regularly updated. Always back up your website before switching plugins to prevent data loss or disruption.

Q: How often should I check for plugin updates?

How often should I check for plugin updates? It is recommended to check for plugin updates at least weekly or enable automatic updates to ensure your site remains secure. Regular updates are essential to protect your website from newly discovered vulnerabilities and keep your plugins functioning correctly. Keeping your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins up to date should be a regular part of your website maintenance routine.

Q: What should I do if I’m not comfortable handling these updates myself?

What should I do if I’m not comfortable handling these updates myself? If you're not comfortable managing updates and security issues on your own, consider hiring a professional or using a managed WordPress hosting service that includes security monitoring and updates. These services can help ensure your site stays secure, allowing you to focus on running your business without worrying about the technical aspects of website maintenance.

Q: Why is it important to stay on top of security vulnerabilities?

Why is it important to stay on top of security vulnerabilities? Staying on top of security vulnerabilities is crucial because cyber threats are constantly evolving, and even small vulnerabilities can lead to significant security breaches. Regularly updating your plugins, monitoring your website for unusual activity, and taking proactive measures to secure your site can prevent potential attacks and protect your business's reputation. Being vigilant about security helps you avoid costly and damaging incidents that could have been easily prevented.

By Your WP Guy | July 26, 2024

Plugin Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: fluentform
Software Status: Active
Software Author: techjewel
Software Downloads: 7,722,361
Active Installs: 400,000
Last Updated: August 12, 2024
Patched Versions: 5.1.20
Affected Versions: <= 5.1.19

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder <= 5.1.19
Title: Authenticated (Subscriber+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Welcome Screen Fields
Type: Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
CVE: CVE-2024-6703
CVSS Score: 4.9
Publicly Published: July 26, 2024
Researcher: zer0gh0st
Description: The Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the ‘description’ and 'btn_txt' parameters in all versions up to, and including, 5.1.19 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This vulnerability allows attackers with Form Manager permissions and Subscriber+ user roles to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder <= 5.1.19
Title: Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
CVE: CVE-2024-6521
CVSS Score: 4.4
Publicly Published: July 26, 2024
Researcher: Joel Indra - Fourqinex Solutions
Description: The Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via dropdown fields in all versions up to, and including, 5.1.19 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level permissions and above to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. This issue particularly affects multi-site installations and those where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Vulnerability 3 Details:

Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder <= 5.1.19
Title: Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
CVE: CVE-2024-6518
CVSS Score: 4.4
Publicly Published: July 26, 2024
Researcher: Joel Indra - Fourqinex Solutions
Description: The Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via input fields in all versions up to, and including, 5.1.19 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level permissions and above to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. This issue primarily affects multi-site installations and those where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Vulnerability 4 Details:

Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder <= 5.1.19
Title: Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
CVE: CVE-2024-6520
CVSS Score: 4.4
Publicly Published: July 26, 2024
Researcher: Joel Indra - Fourqinex Solutions
Description: The Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via custom error messages in all versions up to, and including, 5.1.19 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level permissions and above to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. This issue is particularly relevant for multi-site installations and installations where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Summary:

The Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder for WordPress has multiple vulnerabilities in versions up to and including 5.1.19 that allow for authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. These vulnerabilities have been patched in version 5.1.20.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin were identified by researchers zer0gh0st and Joel Indra of Fourqinex Solutions. These vulnerabilities allow authenticated users with various permission levels (Subscriber+, Administrator+) to inject malicious scripts into the plugin’s fields, which can then execute when accessed by another user. The potential risks include unauthorized content changes, the execution of malicious scripts, and exposure of sensitive data. These vulnerabilities are particularly concerning for multi-site installations and environments where unfiltered_html has been disabled, as they increase the scope and impact of possible attacks.

The developers have responded by releasing version 5.1.20, which addresses these issues by improving input sanitization and output escaping across all affected fields.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are strongly encouraged to update to version 5.1.20 or later immediately to protect their sites from these vulnerabilities.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Users should review their site for any unexpected changes, particularly in forms and user-generated content areas. If you notice anything suspicious, consult with a security expert.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is available, users may want to consider alternative form builder plugins with a stronger security track record.
Stay Updated: Always ensure that your plugins are updated to the latest versions to avoid vulnerabilities like these.

Conclusion:

The prompt response from the plugin developers to patch these vulnerabilities underscores the importance of timely updates. Users are advised to ensure that they are running version 5.1.20 or later to secure their WordPress installations.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today’s fast-paced digital world, maintaining the security of your WordPress website is critical. One of the most effective ways to protect your site from potential threats is to keep all your plugins up to date. Recently, a series of vulnerabilities were discovered in the widely used Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder. These vulnerabilities, affecting versions up to and including 5.1.19, allow for authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. If left unpatched, these vulnerabilities could expose your website to unauthorized content changes, malicious script executions, and even the potential leakage of sensitive data.

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The risks associated with these vulnerabilities are significant, particularly for small business owners who may not have the time or resources to continually monitor their website for security issues. If exploited, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to inject malicious scripts into your site, leading to unauthorized changes, data breaches, and potential harm to your business’s reputation. The fact that these vulnerabilities impact various levels of users (from Subscribers to Administrators) makes them especially concerning for multi-site installations and websites with stricter content filtering settings disabled.

How to Remediate the Vulnerability:

To protect your website from these vulnerabilities, the developers of the Fluent Forms plugin have released version 5.1.20, which patches these issues by improving input sanitization and output escaping across all affected fields. Here’s what you need to do:

Immediate Action: Update your Fluent Forms plugin to version 5.1.20 or later as soon as possible. This update is critical for securing your site against potential exploitation.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review your website for any unexpected changes, particularly in form fields and areas where user-generated content is displayed. If you notice anything unusual, consult with a security expert to perform a thorough audit.
Consider Alternative Plugins: If you are concerned about the security history of the Fluent Forms plugin, you may want to explore alternative form builder plugins with a stronger security track record. Ensure that any new plugin you choose meets your needs and is regularly updated.
Stay Updated: Regularly checking for and applying updates to all your WordPress plugins is one of the most effective ways to protect your site from vulnerabilities. Consider enabling automatic updates or setting a reminder to manually check for updates weekly.

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:

It’s important to note that this isn’t the first time the Fluent Forms plugin has faced security challenges. There have been 12 previous vulnerabilities reported since June 16, 2021. While the developers have consistently addressed these issues with updates, the recurrence of vulnerabilities highlights the importance of staying vigilant and proactive in your website’s security management.

Conclusion:

For small business owners, keeping up with security vulnerabilities can be overwhelming, especially when you’re focused on running your business. However, the risks of neglecting website security are too great to ignore. Regular updates, vigilant monitoring, and professional assistance when needed are all critical steps in protecting your website. By staying proactive, you can safeguard your business, your customers, and your online presence from potential threats.

If you don’t have the time or expertise to manage these updates yourself, consider hiring a professional to ensure your website remains secure and up to date. Taking these steps now can save you from potential headaches and losses in the future.

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.

Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder Vulnerability – Multiple Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-6703, CVE-2024-6521, CVE-2024-6518, CVE-2024-6520 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and how does it impact my website?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into a website, which are then executed when other users access the affected pages. In the context of the Fluent Forms plugin, these vulnerabilities could allow attackers to insert harmful code into form fields, leading to unauthorized actions or data exposure. The impact of such vulnerabilities can be severe, potentially compromising your website's security and damaging your reputation.

How serious are the vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin?

The vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin are serious because they allow authenticated users with varying levels of access to exploit the site by injecting malicious scripts. Although the CVSS scores range from 4.4 to 4.9, indicating moderate severity, the potential consequences—such as unauthorized content changes and data breaches—can be significant. It is crucial to address these vulnerabilities promptly to avoid further risks.

What immediate steps should I take to secure my website?

The first and most critical step is to update the Fluent Forms plugin to version 5.1.20 or later, which patches the vulnerabilities. After updating, review your website for any signs of unusual activity or changes, particularly in form fields and user-generated content areas. If you detect anything suspicious, consider consulting a security professional to conduct a comprehensive audit.

How can I tell if my website has already been compromised?

Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes in content, the presence of unfamiliar scripts, or abnormal behavior in your forms or user-generated content areas. Reviewing your server logs for unusual activity and running a security scan can help identify potential issues. If you suspect a compromise, it's advisable to seek assistance from a security expert to mitigate any damage.

Why do these vulnerabilities mainly affect multi-site installations and those with unfiltered_html disabled?

Multi-site installations and environments where unfiltered_html is disabled have stricter content filtering settings, which are meant to enhance security. However, these configurations can also make certain vulnerabilities more impactful if exploited. In the case of the Fluent Forms plugin, these settings increase the scope and risk of the vulnerabilities by making it easier for attackers to inject malicious scripts into multiple sites or bypass certain restrictions.

What are the risks of not updating the Fluent Forms plugin?

Failing to update the Fluent Forms plugin leaves your website vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. This could result in unauthorized access to your website, data breaches, or malicious code being executed on your site, potentially leading to loss of customer trust and financial damages. The longer your site remains unpatched, the higher the risk of exploitation.

Should I consider switching to an alternative form builder plugin?

If you are concerned about the security history of the Fluent Forms plugin, you might consider exploring alternative form builder plugins that offer similar functionality with a stronger security record. Before making any changes, ensure that the new plugin meets your needs and is regularly updated. Always back up your website before switching plugins to prevent data loss or disruption.

How often should I check for plugin updates?

It is recommended to check for plugin updates at least weekly or enable automatic updates to ensure your site remains secure. Regular updates are essential to protect your website from newly discovered vulnerabilities and keep your plugins functioning correctly. Keeping your WordPress installation, themes, and plugins up to date should be a regular part of your website maintenance routine.

What should I do if I’m not comfortable handling these updates myself?

If you're not comfortable managing updates and security issues on your own, consider hiring a professional or using a managed WordPress hosting service that includes security monitoring and updates. These services can help ensure your site stays secure, allowing you to focus on running your business without worrying about the technical aspects of website maintenance.

Why is it important to stay on top of security vulnerabilities?

Staying on top of security vulnerabilities is crucial because cyber threats are constantly evolving, and even small vulnerabilities can lead to significant security breaches. Regularly updating your plugins, monitoring your website for unusual activity, and taking proactive measures to secure your site can prevent potential attacks and protect your business's reputation. Being vigilant about security helps you avoid costly and damaging incidents that could have been easily prevented.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, CVE-2024-6518, CVE-2024-6520, CVE-2024-6521, CVE-2024-6703, fluent forms vulnerability, Plugin Updates, Plugin Vulnerability, small business cybersecurity, Website Security, wordpress security, WordPress Updates, XSS

Plugin Name: Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder

Key Information:

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Vulnerability 3 Details:

Vulnerability 4 Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

How to Remediate the Vulnerability:

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Contact Form Plugin by Fluent Forms for Quiz, Survey, and Drag & Drop WP Form Builder Vulnerability – Multiple Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-6703, CVE-2024-6521, CVE-2024-6518, CVE-2024-6520 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and how does it impact my website?

How serious are the vulnerabilities in the Fluent Forms plugin?

What immediate steps should I take to secure my website?

How can I tell if my website has already been compromised?

Why do these vulnerabilities mainly affect multi-site installations and those with unfiltered_html disabled?

What are the risks of not updating the Fluent Forms plugin?

Should I consider switching to an alternative form builder plugin?

How often should I check for plugin updates?

What should I do if I’m not comfortable handling these updates myself?

Why is it important to stay on top of security vulnerabilities?

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