Download Monitor Vulnerability – Missing Authorization – CVE-2024-3269 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the Download Monitor plugin for WordPress?

What is the Download Monitor plugin for WordPress? The Download Monitor plugin is a popular tool developed by wpchill, designed to manage and organize file downloads on WordPress websites. With over 100,000 active installations and millions of downloads, it serves as an essential resource for website owners seeking to streamline their download management processes.

Q: What is CVE-2024-3269?

What is CVE-2024-3269? CVE-2024-3269 refers to a specific vulnerability identified in the Download Monitor plugin, categorized as "Missing Authorization." This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to exploit the plugin's functionality, potentially leading to unauthorized access and deletion of plugin data.

Q: Who discovered the vulnerability?

Who discovered the vulnerability? The vulnerability was discovered by security researcher Arkadiusz Hydzik, who identified the critical oversight in the plugin's codebase that allowed for unauthorized access to the dlm_uninstall_plugin function.

Q: What are the potential risks associated with this vulnerability?

What are the potential risks associated with this vulnerability? The primary risk associated with CVE-2024-3269 is unauthorized removal of the Download Monitor plugin and deletion of its associated data. This could result in data loss, service disruption, and compromise of website functionality, posing significant challenges for website owners.

Q: How can website owners remediate this vulnerability?

How can website owners remediate this vulnerability? Website owners are strongly encouraged to update their Download Monitor plugin to the patched version 4.9.14 immediately. Additionally, monitoring for any unauthorized changes or unexpected behavior on the website can help identify potential exploitation of the vulnerability.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins available?

Are there any alternative plugins available? While awaiting the patch implementation, website owners may consider temporarily disabling the Download Monitor plugin and exploring alternative solutions for managing file downloads on their WordPress websites.

Q: How can I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How can I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about security vulnerabilities requires regular monitoring of reliable sources such as security advisories, plugin developer announcements, and industry-leading security blogs.

Q: What other security measures should I implement to protect my WordPress website?

What other security measures should I implement to protect my WordPress website? In addition to updating plugins, website owners should prioritize security best practices such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, regularly backing up website data, and implementing a web application firewall.

Q: Are there any historical vulnerabilities associated with the Download Monitor plugin?

Are there any historical vulnerabilities associated with the Download Monitor plugin? Yes, there have been 21 previous vulnerabilities identified in the Download Monitor plugin since April 28, 2008. This underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive security measures.

Q: Why is it crucial for small business owners to prioritize website security?

Why is it crucial for small business owners to prioritize website security? Small business owners must prioritize website security to protect their online presence, customer data, and reputation. Security vulnerabilities can lead to costly data breaches, downtime, and loss of customer trust, highlighting the importance of staying proactive in safeguarding their WordPress websites.

By Your WP Guy | May 29, 2024

Plugin Name: Download Monitor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: download-monitor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: wpchill
Software Downloads: 5,153,537
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: June 11, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.9.14
Affected Versions: <= 4.9.13

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Download Monitor <= 4.9.13
Title: Missing Authorization
Type:
CVE: CVE-2024-3269
CVSS Score: 5.4
Publicly Published: May 29, 2024
Researcher: Arkadiusz Hydzik
Description: The Download Monitor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized access to functionality due to a missing capability check on the dlm_uninstall_plugin function in all versions up to, and including, 4.9.13. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers to uninstall the plugin and delete its data.
References: Wordfence Report, Wordfence Analysis

Summary:

The Download Monitor plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.9.13 that allows authenticated attackers to uninstall the plugin and delete its data. This vulnerability has been patched in version 4.9.14.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability, reported by Arkadiusz Hydzik, arises from a missing capability check on the dlm_uninstall_plugin function. This oversight allows authenticated attackers to exploit the plugin's functionality, potentially leading to unauthorized removal of the plugin and deletion of its associated data. The risk of data loss and service disruption underscores the critical nature of this vulnerability.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are strongly encouraged to update to patched version 4.9.14 immediately to mitigate the risk of unauthorized uninstallation and data loss.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your website for any unauthorized changes or unexpected behavior, such as missing plugin functionality, which may indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: Consider temporarily disabling the Download Monitor plugin and exploring alternative solutions until the patch is applied.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all plugins to their latest versions to avoid vulnerabilities and ensure the security of your WordPress website.

Conclusion:

The proactive response from the Download Monitor plugin developers in releasing a patch underscores the importance of timely updates for maintaining website security. Users are strongly advised to ensure that they are running version 4.9.14 or later to safeguard their WordPress installations against potential exploitation.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today's interconnected digital landscape, website security is paramount. Yet, even with the best precautions, vulnerabilities can emerge, exposing your site to potential threats. Our latest investigation delves into a critical security flaw discovered in the Download Monitor plugin for WordPress. Titled "Download Monitor Vulnerability - Missing Authorization - CVE-2024-3269," this report uncovers a concerning loophole that affects versions up to and including 4.9.13 of the plugin.

Plugin Overview:

Developed by wpchill, Download Monitor boasts a substantial user base with over 100,000 active installations and millions of downloads. It serves as a vital tool for managing file downloads on WordPress websites, offering users seamless control and organization of downloadable content.

Vulnerability Details:

Recent findings reveal a vulnerability flagged as CVE-2024-3269, posing a CVSS score of 5.4. Discovered by security researcher Arkadiusz Hydzik, this flaw stems from a critical oversight in the plugin's codebase. Specifically, the vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to exploit the dlm_uninstall_plugin function, granting them unauthorized access to uninstall the plugin and delete its data.

Risks/Potential Impacts:

The potential repercussions are grave, including data loss and service disruption. Unauthorized removal of the Download Monitor plugin could result in the deletion of essential files and crucial website functionalities, leading to downtime and loss of user trust.

Remediation Steps:

To mitigate the risk of exploitation, users are strongly encouraged to update to patched version 4.9.14 immediately. Additionally, website owners should monitor their websites for any unauthorized changes or unexpected behavior, such as missing plugin functionality, which may indicate exploitation of the vulnerability. Consider temporarily disabling the Download Monitor plugin and exploring alternative solutions until the patch is applied. Regularly updating all plugins to their latest versions is crucial to avoiding vulnerabilities and ensuring the security of your WordPress website.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

It's worth noting that this isn't the first vulnerability associated with the Download Monitor plugin. In fact, there have been 21 previous vulnerabilities since April 28, 2008. This highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and proactive measures to protect your website from potential security threats.

Importance of Staying on Top of Security Vulnerabilities:

As a small business owner managing a WordPress website, staying on top of security vulnerabilities is essential for safeguarding your online presence. Regularly updating your plugins, themes, and WordPress core is the first line of defense against potential threats. Implementing security best practices, such as using strong passwords, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly backing up your website, can further enhance your website's security posture. Remember, investing time in security measures today can save you from costly security breaches and downtime 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.