Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0834 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0834?

What is CVE-2024-0834? CVE-2024-0834 is a security identifier for a vulnerability discovered in the Elementor Addon Elements plugin for WordPress. This particular vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, allowing authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts can then be executed by other users, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data exposure.

Q: How does CVE-2024-0834 affect WordPress websites?

How does CVE-2024-0834 affect WordPress websites? Websites using the vulnerable versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are at risk of security breaches. Attackers with sufficient access can exploit this vulnerability to inject harmful scripts into the website, which can be executed by unsuspecting users. This could compromise the website's integrity, user privacy, and data security.

Q: Which versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are affected?

Which versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are affected? The Elementor Addon Elements plugin versions up to and including 1.12.11 are affected by the CVE-2024-0834 vulnerability. Websites using these versions are vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks and should be updated immediately to the patched version, 1.12.12, to mitigate the risk.

Q: What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0834?

What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0834? To protect your site from the CVE-2024-0834 vulnerability, immediately update the Elementor Addon Elements plugin to version 1.12.12, which contains the necessary security patches. Additionally, reviewing user roles and permissions on your site to ensure only trusted users have contributor-level access or higher can further mitigate risks.

Q: How can I check if my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can I check if my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? Checking for signs of compromise involves reviewing your site's content for unexpected changes or scripts and analyzing access logs for unusual activity. If you find evidence of unauthorized script injections or other suspicious behavior, it's advisable to conduct a thorough security audit and consider engaging a cybersecurity professional for an in-depth analysis.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements that are more secure?

Are there alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements that are more secure? While there are many alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements, security is a dynamic field, and no plugin can be guaranteed to be completely secure forever. When choosing an alternative, look for plugins with a strong security track record, active development, and regular updates. Conducting thorough research and reading user reviews can help identify reputable alternatives.

Q: How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Setting a regular schedule to check for updates, such as weekly or bi-weekly, and enabling automatic updates for trusted plugins can help maintain your site's security.

Q: Can automatic updates prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-0834?

Can automatic updates prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-0834? Enabling automatic updates for WordPress plugins can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities by ensuring that plugins are updated promptly. However, automatic updates should be complemented with regular site reviews and security audits, as they may not cover all potential security issues.

Q: What are the best practices for WordPress site security?

What are the best practices for WordPress site security? Best practices for WordPress site security include regularly updating the WordPress core, plugins, and themes; using strong, unique passwords; implementing two-factor authentication; limiting login attempts; and using reputable security plugins. Regular backups and user education on security practices are also essential.

Q: Why is staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities important?

Why is staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities important? Staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities allows website owners to take proactive measures to secure their sites before potential exploits occur. Awareness of vulnerabilities and timely updates can prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security incidents, maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of your site.

By Your WP Guy | February 5, 2024

Plugin Name: Elementor Addon Elements

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: addon-elements-for-elementor-page-builder
Software Status: Active
Software Author: webtechstreet
Software Downloads: 2,364,972
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: February 8, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.12.12
Affected Versions: 1.12.11 - 1.12.11

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Elementor Addon Elements <= 1.12.11
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-0834
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: February 5, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The Elementor Addon Elements plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in versions up to 1.12.11. The vulnerability occurs due to insufficient sanitization of the 'link_to' parameter, allowing authenticated users with at least contributor privileges to inject harmful scripts into web pages, which are then executed when accessed by other users.

Summary:

Elementor Addon Elements, a popular plugin designed to enhance the Elementor page builder with additional widgets and features, has been found to contain a significant security flaw in versions up to 1.12.11. This Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability poses a risk as it enables attackers with contributor-level access to embed malicious scripts into web pages. The issue has been promptly addressed in version 1.12.12, where necessary security measures have been implemented to prevent such exploits.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability was identified by the security researcher Webbernaut, highlighting the critical need for stringent security practices in plugin development. The exploit takes advantage of inadequate input sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's 'link_to' parameter, underscoring the importance of validating and escaping user inputs to prevent malicious code injection. The potential for unauthorized script execution could lead to various security breaches, including data theft, site defacement, and compromised user accounts.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are strongly advised to update to the patched version 1.12.12 immediately to mitigate the vulnerability and secure their sites.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Site administrators should review their websites for any unusual or unauthorized content, particularly in areas where the affected parameter might be used, to identify potential exploitation.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version addresses this specific vulnerability, users may consider evaluating other reputable plugins offering similar functionalities to diversify their security posture.
Stay Updated: Regularly updating all WordPress plugins, themes, and the core software is essential for maintaining site security. Users should monitor for and apply updates promptly to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in the Elementor Addon Elements plugin by the developers underscores the ongoing challenges faced in ensuring web security. The release of version 1.12.12 is a crucial step in safeguarding WordPress sites using this plugin from potential security threats. This incident serves as a valuable reminder of the importance of continuous vigilance, timely updates, and proactive security measures in the ever-evolving digital landscape.

References:

In the digital ecosystem where websites serve as the cornerstone of businesses and personal platforms, the importance of cybersecurity is paramount. The recent discovery of the CVE-2024-0834 vulnerability within the "Elementor Addon Elements" plugin for WordPress brings to light the ongoing battle against security threats. This plugin, designed to extend the functionality of the Elementor page builder with additional widgets and features, is instrumental for over 100,000 websites, enhancing their user experience and interface. However, the identification of this Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in versions up to 1.12.11 underscores the delicate balance between functionality and security.

Plugin Overview:

"Elementor Addon Elements," developed by webtechstreet, has been a popular choice among WordPress users, with more than 2.3 million downloads. It provides a range of custom widgets to augment the Elementor page builder, making website design more accessible and versatile.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-0834 exposes a security flaw where insufficient sanitization of the 'link_to' parameter allows authenticated users with at least contributor privileges to inject harmful scripts. This vulnerability, present in versions 1.12.11 and earlier, can lead to unauthorized script execution, posing significant risks to website integrity and user security.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The exploitation of CVE-2024-0834 could result in data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, and potential site defacement. The vulnerability primarily affects sites allowing user contributions, highlighting the need for stringent role management and input validation within WordPress environments.

Remediation Steps:

To mitigate this vulnerability, users must promptly update the plugin to the patched version 1.12.12. Additionally, website administrators should conduct thorough reviews for any unusual or unauthorized content and consider tightening user permissions to minimize potential exploitation vectors.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

This is not the first instance of security concerns associated with the "Elementor Addon Elements" plugin, with nine vulnerabilities reported since September 8, 2020. Each incident serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of web threats and the critical need for continuous monitoring and updating of all website components.

Conclusion:

The swift resolution of CVE-2024-0834 by the plugin's developers highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining web security and the crucial role of timely software updates. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, this incident underscores the importance of vigilance in updating plugins, themes, and core software. In an age where time is a scarce commodity, leveraging automated update features, subscribing to security advisories, and periodically consulting with cybersecurity professionals can provide a safety net, ensuring that your digital presence remains both robust and secure against the backdrop of an ever-evolving threat landscape.

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.

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0834 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0834?

CVE-2024-0834 is a security identifier for a vulnerability discovered in the Elementor Addon Elements plugin for WordPress. This particular vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, allowing authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts can then be executed by other users, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data exposure.

How does CVE-2024-0834 affect WordPress websites?

Websites using the vulnerable versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are at risk of security breaches. Attackers with sufficient access can exploit this vulnerability to inject harmful scripts into the website, which can be executed by unsuspecting users. This could compromise the website's integrity, user privacy, and data security.

Which versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are affected?

What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0834?

To protect your site from the CVE-2024-0834 vulnerability, immediately update the Elementor Addon Elements plugin to version 1.12.12, which contains the necessary security patches. Additionally, reviewing user roles and permissions on your site to ensure only trusted users have contributor-level access or higher can further mitigate risks.

How can I check if my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Checking for signs of compromise involves reviewing your site's content for unexpected changes or scripts and analyzing access logs for unusual activity. If you find evidence of unauthorized script injections or other suspicious behavior, it's advisable to conduct a thorough security audit and consider engaging a cybersecurity professional for an in-depth analysis.

Are there alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements that are more secure?

While there are many alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements, security is a dynamic field, and no plugin can be guaranteed to be completely secure forever. When choosing an alternative, look for plugins with a strong security track record, active development, and regular updates. Conducting thorough research and reading user reviews can help identify reputable alternatives.

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

Can automatic updates prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-0834?

What are the best practices for WordPress site security?

Why is staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities important?

Staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities allows website owners to take proactive measures to secure their sites before potential exploits occur. Awareness of vulnerabilities and timely updates can prevent unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security incidents, maintaining the integrity and trustworthiness of your site.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-0834, Cybersecurity, elementor addon elements, Plugin Updates, secure web development, Web Security, Website Protection, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Elementor Addon Elements

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0834 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0834?

How does CVE-2024-0834 affect WordPress websites?

Which versions of the Elementor Addon Elements plugin are affected?

What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0834?

How can I check if my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to Elementor Addon Elements that are more secure?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

Can automatic updates prevent vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-0834?

What are the best practices for WordPress site security?

Why is staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities important?

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