Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms Vulnerability – Authenticated (Administrator+) Arbitrary File Upload – CVE-2024-1069 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1069?

What is CVE-2024-1069? CVE-2024-1069 is a security identifier for a specific vulnerability found in the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" WordPress plugin. This vulnerability allowed authenticated users with administrator-level access to upload arbitrary files to the website's server, potentially leading to unauthorized access or remote code execution. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited to compromise the website's integrity and security. It underscores the importance of maintaining strict file validation protocols to prevent unauthorized file uploads that could harm the website and its users.

Q: How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site? If your WordPress site uses the affected versions of the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin, it could be at risk. Attackers with administrative access could exploit this vulnerability to upload harmful files, potentially leading to site compromise, data breaches, or other malicious activities. The risk is significant because it opens the door for attackers to potentially take control of your site, access sensitive information, or use your site to distribute malware. It's crucial to update the plugin to the patched version to mitigate these risks.

Q: What versions of the plugin are affected?

What versions of the plugin are affected? Versions of the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin up to and including 1.3.2 are affected by this vulnerability. These versions do not include the necessary checks and validations to prevent arbitrary file uploads by authenticated users with administrator-level access. If you're using any of these affected versions, it's vital to update to the latest version, 1.3.3, which contains the necessary patches to address this security issue.

Q: How can I update the plugin to the secure version?

How can I update the plugin to the secure version? Updating your plugin is straightforward. Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and find the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin in your list of installed plugins. If an update is available, you will see an 'Update Now' link. Click 'Update Now', and WordPress will automatically download and install the latest version of the plugin. It's a good practice to back up your website before performing updates to ensure you can restore it in case of any issues.

Q: Are there alternative plugins I can use?

Are there alternative plugins I can use? Yes, there are several alternative form management plugins available for WordPress. Popular alternatives include "Gravity Forms," "Ninja Forms," and "Formidable Forms." Each offers a range of features for form creation and management, and they are regularly updated to address security and functionality. When considering an alternative, review its features, security measures, and user reviews to ensure it meets your needs and maintains a strong security posture.

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

What are the signs that my site has been compromised? Signs of a compromised site can include unexpected changes to your site's content or appearance, new user accounts with administrative privileges, unusual site behavior, or reports of malicious content from users. You may also notice performance issues or find suspicious files in your site directories. If you suspect your site has been compromised, it's crucial to conduct a thorough security audit, remove any malicious content, and strengthen your site's security measures to prevent future breaches.

Q: Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated?

Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated? Keeping WordPress plugins updated is crucial for several reasons. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that, if left unaddressed, could be exploited by attackers. They also provide enhancements to functionality, performance improvements, and compatibility with the latest WordPress versions. Neglecting plugin updates can leave your site vulnerable to security breaches, which can have severe consequences for your business and your users. Regular updates are a fundamental aspect of maintaining a secure and efficient website.

Q: What should I do if I cannot update my plugins immediately?

What should I do if I cannot update my plugins immediately? If you're unable to update your plugins immediately, consider taking temporary measures to mitigate risk. These can include disabling the vulnerable plugin, using a web application firewall (WAF) to block potential exploit attempts, and monitoring your site for unusual activity. However, these measures are not long-term solutions. Updating the plugin as soon as possible is the most effective way to secure your site against the known vulnerability.

Q: How can I ensure my WordPress site remains secure in the future?

How can I ensure my WordPress site remains secure in the future? Ensuring the long-term security of your WordPress site involves adopting a comprehensive security strategy. This includes regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins, using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, implementing two-factor authentication, and conducting regular security audits and backups. Consider using a security plugin that provides features like malware scanning, firewall protection, and security monitoring to further enhance your site's security posture.

Q: Where can I find more information about WordPress security?

Where can I find more information about WordPress security? For comprehensive information on WordPress security, the WordPress Codex and WordPress Developer Handbook offer a wealth of knowledge on best practices, security measures, and troubleshooting. Additionally, numerous online resources, blogs, and forums dedicated to WordPress security can provide up-to-date information, tips, and community support.

By Your WP Guy | January 30, 2024

Plugin Name: Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: contact-form-entries
Software Status: Active
Software Author: crmperks
Software Downloads: 502,953
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: February 1, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.3.3
Affected Versions: <= 1.3.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Contact Form Entries <= 1.3.2
Title: Authenticated (Administrator+) Arbitrary File Upload
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-1069
CVSS Score: 7.2
Publicly Published: January 30, 2024
Researcher: István Márton - Wordfence
Description: The "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin, also known as Contact Form Entries, is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads in versions up to and including 1.3.2. The vulnerability arises from insufficient file validation in the 'view_page' function, enabling authenticated users with administrator or higher privileges to upload potentially harmful files to the server, potentially facilitating remote code execution.

Summary:

The Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms plugin for WordPress, harbors a significant security vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.3.2. This flaw permits authenticated administrators to upload arbitrary files, posing a severe security risk. Thankfully, this vulnerability has been addressed in the recent 1.3.3 update.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by István Márton from Wordfence, this vulnerability highlights a critical risk in the plugin's 'view_page' function, which failed to adequately validate uploaded files. Such a loophole could allow attackers with administrative access to deploy malicious scripts or other harmful files onto the website's server, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or further exploitation of the server resources. The severity of this vulnerability, reflected in its 7.2 CVSS score, underscores the importance of robust file validation mechanisms in web applications, especially those with file upload capabilities.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: It is imperative for users of the Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms plugin to immediately update to the patched version, 1.3.3, to mitigate the risk associated with this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review their site's files and logs for any unusual or unauthorized uploads or changes, especially if running a version prior to 1.3.3.
Alternate Plugins: Considering the severity of this vulnerability, users may evaluate alternative form management plugins with a strong security track record as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: This incident serves as a reminder of the critical importance of regular updates. Ensuring all WordPress components are up-to-date is a cornerstone of maintaining a secure web presence.

Conclusion:

The swift identification and patching of this vulnerability by the plugin's developers and the security community at large highlight the dynamic nature of web security and the critical role of community vigilance. For WordPress site owners, especially small businesses with limited IT resources, this incident underscores the necessity of regular maintenance and the value of security best practices in safeguarding digital assets against evolving threats.

References:

In today's digital age, the security of a website can never be taken for granted, especially for small businesses that rely heavily on their online presence. The recent identification of a critical vulnerability within the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin, known as CVE-2024-1069, serves as a stark reminder of the continuous battle against cyber threats. This plugin, integral to over 60,000 WordPress sites for managing form entries, was found to harbor a flaw that could potentially compromise the entire website.

Plugin Overview:

The "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin, developed by crmperks, is a popular WordPress extension used to store form submissions from visitors. With over half a million downloads, this tool is crucial for website administrators to capture and manage user data efficiently. However, the convenience it offers was shadowed by a severe security lapse in versions up to and including 1.3.2.

The Vulnerability Explained:

CVE-2024-1069, an Authenticated (Administrator+) Arbitrary File Upload vulnerability, was discovered by István Márton from the Wordfence security team. This vulnerability allowed users with administrative privileges to upload files of any type to the server without proper validation, paving the way for potential remote code execution. Such a loophole could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and a host of other security nightmares.

Potential Risks and Impacts:

The implications of this vulnerability cannot be overstated. An exploited website could serve as a launchpad for further attacks, not only jeopardizing the site's integrity but also the sensitive data it holds. For small businesses, the fallout could extend beyond the digital realm, affecting reputation, customer trust, and ultimately, the bottom line.

Remediation Steps:

In response to this discovery, a patched version of the plugin, 1.3.3, was swiftly released. It is imperative for website owners to update their plugin to this latest version to close off this vulnerability. Additionally, reviewing site logs for unusual activity and considering alternative, well-vetted plugins can further bolster security.

Historical Context:

This is not the plugin's first encounter with security issues; it has seen 7 vulnerabilities since January 5, 2021. This history emphasizes the need for continuous vigilance and regular updates, as each patch not only addresses known flaws but also strengthens the plugin's overall security posture.

The Importance of Proactive Security:

For small business owners juggling countless priorities, staying ahead of security vulnerabilities may seem daunting. Yet, the digital health of your business depends on this proactive approach. Leveraging automated update features, subscribing to security blogs or services, and occasionally consulting with cybersecurity professionals can help maintain a robust defense without overwhelming your schedule.

In conclusion, the discovery of CVE-2024-1069 within a widely used WordPress plugin is a critical wake-up call for small business owners. It underscores the necessity of maintaining up-to-date software and adopting a proactive stance on cybersecurity. In the digital arena, where threats constantly evolve, staying informed and prepared is your best defense against the unforeseen challenges of tomorrow.

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.

Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms Vulnerability – Authenticated (Administrator+) Arbitrary File Upload – CVE-2024-1069 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1069?

CVE-2024-1069 is a security identifier for a specific vulnerability found in the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" WordPress plugin. This vulnerability allowed authenticated users with administrator-level access to upload arbitrary files to the website's server, potentially leading to unauthorized access or remote code execution.

This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can be exploited to compromise the website's integrity and security. It underscores the importance of maintaining strict file validation protocols to prevent unauthorized file uploads that could harm the website and its users.

How does this vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

If your WordPress site uses the affected versions of the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin, it could be at risk. Attackers with administrative access could exploit this vulnerability to upload harmful files, potentially leading to site compromise, data breaches, or other malicious activities.

The risk is significant because it opens the door for attackers to potentially take control of your site, access sensitive information, or use your site to distribute malware. It's crucial to update the plugin to the patched version to mitigate these risks.

What versions of the plugin are affected?

Versions of the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin up to and including 1.3.2 are affected by this vulnerability. These versions do not include the necessary checks and validations to prevent arbitrary file uploads by authenticated users with administrator-level access.

If you're using any of these affected versions, it's vital to update to the latest version, 1.3.3, which contains the necessary patches to address this security issue.

How can I update the plugin to the secure version?

Updating your plugin is straightforward. Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and find the "Database for Contact Form 7, WPforms, Elementor forms" plugin in your list of installed plugins. If an update is available, you will see an 'Update Now' link.

Click 'Update Now', and WordPress will automatically download and install the latest version of the plugin. It's a good practice to back up your website before performing updates to ensure you can restore it in case of any issues.

Are there alternative plugins I can use?

Yes, there are several alternative form management plugins available for WordPress. Popular alternatives include "Gravity Forms," "Ninja Forms," and "Formidable Forms." Each offers a range of features for form creation and management, and they are regularly updated to address security and functionality.

When considering an alternative, review its features, security measures, and user reviews to ensure it meets your needs and maintains a strong security posture.

What are the signs that my site has been compromised?

Signs of a compromised site can include unexpected changes to your site's content or appearance, new user accounts with administrative privileges, unusual site behavior, or reports of malicious content from users. You may also notice performance issues or find suspicious files in your site directories.

If you suspect your site has been compromised, it's crucial to conduct a thorough security audit, remove any malicious content, and strengthen your site's security measures to prevent future breaches.

Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated?

Keeping WordPress plugins updated is crucial for several reasons. Updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that, if left unaddressed, could be exploited by attackers. They also provide enhancements to functionality, performance improvements, and compatibility with the latest WordPress versions.

Neglecting plugin updates can leave your site vulnerable to security breaches, which can have severe consequences for your business and your users. Regular updates are a fundamental aspect of maintaining a secure and efficient website.

What should I do if I cannot update my plugins immediately?

If you're unable to update your plugins immediately, consider taking temporary measures to mitigate risk. These can include disabling the vulnerable plugin, using a web application firewall (WAF) to block potential exploit attempts, and monitoring your site for unusual activity.

However, these measures are not long-term solutions. Updating the plugin as soon as possible is the most effective way to secure your site against the known vulnerability.

How can I ensure my WordPress site remains secure in the future?

Ensuring the long-term security of your WordPress site involves adopting a comprehensive security strategy. This includes regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins, using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, implementing two-factor authentication, and conducting regular security audits and backups.

Consider using a security plugin that provides features like malware scanning, firewall protection, and security monitoring to further enhance your site's security posture.

Where can I find more information about WordPress security?

For comprehensive information on WordPress security, the WordPress Codex and WordPress Developer Handbook offer a wealth of knowledge on best practices, security measures, and troubleshooting. Additionally, numerous online resources, blogs, and forums dedicated to WordPress security can provide up-to-date information, tips, and community support.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged contact form 7, CVE-2024-1069, cybersecurity for small business, Elementor forms, Plugin Update, Plugin Vulnerability, proactive cybersecurity, Security Patch, Website Protection, wordpress security, WPforms