Download Manager Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2024-6208 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: Download Manager
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: download-manager
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: codename065
- Software Downloads: 8,808,376
- Active Installs: 100,000
- Last Updated: August 12, 2024
- Patched Versions: 3.2.98
- Affected Versions: <= 3.2.97
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: Download Manager <= 3.2.97
- Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode
- Type: Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
- CVE: CVE-2024-6208
- CVSS Score: 6.4
- Publicly Published: July 30, 2024
- Researcher: Jack Taylor
- Description: The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 3.2.97. This vulnerability arises due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the 'cols' parameter. It allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages, which execute whenever a user accesses the affected page.
Summary:
The Download Manager plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.2.97 that allows authenticated (Contributor+) stored cross-site scripting via the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 3.2.98.
Detailed Overview:
Download Manager is a widely-used WordPress plugin that enables site owners to manage and share digital files with ease. However, a significant vulnerability was discovered in the plugin, specifically in the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. Identified as CVE-2024-6208, this stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability was uncovered by researcher Jack Taylor. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the 'cols' parameter of the shortcode. This flaw allows attackers with Contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts into pages that execute whenever a user accesses the compromised page, potentially leading to unauthorized actions and data breaches.
This vulnerability, which has a CVSS score of 6.4, was publicly disclosed on July 30, 2024. It affects all versions of the Download Manager plugin up to and including 3.2.97. In response to the discovery, the developers at codename065 released a patched version, 3.2.98, on August 12, 2024, to address the issue.
Advice for Users:
Immediate Action: Users are strongly encouraged to update to version 3.2.98 immediately to mitigate the risk of stored cross-site scripting attacks.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Users should inspect their sites for any unexpected scripts or behaviors, particularly if they have used the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode.
Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, users might consider exploring alternative plugins that offer similar functionality as an extra precaution.
Stay Updated: Always ensure that your plugins are updated to the latest versions to avoid vulnerabilities and protect your website’s integrity.
Conclusion:
The prompt response from the Download Manager development team to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. Users are advised to ensure that they are running version 3.2.98 or later to secure their WordPress installations. For small business owners, staying on top of security vulnerabilities might seem overwhelming, but it is essential for protecting your online presence. Regular maintenance, including updates and vulnerability checks, is crucial in safeguarding your site against potential threats. If you need assistance or have concerns about your website's security, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Staying informed and proactive is key to maintaining a secure and trustworthy website.
References:
Detailed Report:
Keeping your WordPress website up to date is crucial for maintaining its security and protecting it from potential threats. Regularly updating plugins is a key part of this process, as outdated plugins can become targets for vulnerabilities. Recently, a significant security issue was identified in the Download Manager plugin, a popular tool used by WordPress site owners to manage and share digital files. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-6208, poses a serious risk by allowing attackers with Contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts into your site through the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. These scripts can execute whenever a user accesses the compromised page, leading to unauthorized actions and potential data breaches.
Summary:
The Download Manager plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.2.97 that allows authenticated (Contributor+) stored cross-site scripting via the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 3.2.98.
Detailed Overview:
Download Manager is a widely-used WordPress plugin that enables site owners to manage and share digital files efficiently. However, a significant vulnerability was discovered in the plugin's 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-6208, was uncovered by researcher Jack Taylor and is due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the 'cols' parameter. This flaw allows attackers with Contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts into pages that execute whenever a user accesses the compromised page. Such scripts can lead to unauthorized actions, data breaches, and other security issues, making this vulnerability a serious concern for anyone using affected versions of the plugin.
This vulnerability has a CVSS score of 6.4, indicating a moderate to high risk. The issue was publicly disclosed on July 30, 2024, and impacts all versions of the Download Manager plugin up to and including 3.2.97. In response to the discovery, the developers at codename065 quickly released a patched version, 3.2.98, on August 12, 2024, to address the issue.
Risks and Potential Impacts:
This vulnerability poses significant risks to websites using the Download Manager plugin. An attacker with Contributor-level access could exploit this flaw to inject harmful scripts into web pages, which would execute whenever a user visits the compromised page. The consequences could include unauthorized actions, data breaches, or further exploitation of the site, all of which could severely impact a website’s security and integrity.
Remediation:
To protect your site, it is critical to update the Download Manager plugin to the latest version, 3.2.98, immediately. This update patches the vulnerability, mitigating the risk of cross-site scripting attacks. Additionally, site owners should inspect their websites for any unusual behavior or unexpected scripts, especially if they have used the 'wpdm_all_packages' shortcode. While the patch addresses this specific issue, regularly updating all plugins and performing security audits are essential practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site.
Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:
Since December 7, 2013, the Download Manager plugin has had 52 previous vulnerabilities reported. This history highlights the ongoing need for vigilance and regular updates to keep your website secure. Although the plugin’s developers have been responsive in addressing these issues, it underscores the importance of being proactive about site security.
Conclusion:
The prompt response from the Download Manager development team to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. For small business owners, staying on top of security vulnerabilities might seem overwhelming, but it is essential for protecting your online presence. Regular maintenance, including updates and vulnerability checks, is crucial in safeguarding your site against potential threats. If you need assistance or have concerns about your website's security, don’t hesitate to seek professional help. Staying informed and proactive is key to maintaining a secure and trustworthy website.
Staying Secure
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