Elementor Addons by Livemesh Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0448 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0448?

What is CVE-2024-0448? CVE-2024-0448 is a unique identifier assigned to a specific security vulnerability found in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, which allows attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts through the plugin's widget URL parameters. This vulnerability poses significant security risks, as it can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, session hijacking, and the potential spread of malware. The ability for these scripts to persist on the website means that any visitor could be affected, making it a critical issue for site owners to address.

Q: How does CVE-2024-0448 affect WordPress websites?

How does CVE-2024-0448 affect WordPress websites? Websites using the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin versions up to and including 8.3.1 are at risk from the CVE-2024-0448 vulnerability. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor or higher access to exploit the plugin's widget URL parameters to inject harmful scripts. The impact of such exploitation can be severe, including unauthorized data access, manipulation of website content, and compromise of visitor's personal information. Given the plugin's popularity, a large number of sites could be at risk if they don't update to a secure version.

Q: How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0448?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0448? To determine if your site is vulnerable, you need to check the version of the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 8.3.1 or earlier, it is vulnerable to attacks exploiting CVE-2024-0448. You can find the plugin version by accessing the WordPress admin dashboard, navigating to the "Plugins" section, and locating the Elementor Addons by Livemesh in your list of installed plugins. The version number is usually listed alongside the plugin name.

Q: What immediate steps should I take if my site is affected?

What immediate steps should I take if my site is affected? If your site is affected by CVE-2024-0448, the first and most crucial step is to update the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin to version 8.3.2 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched. You can update the plugin directly from your WordPress admin dashboard under the "Plugins" section. After updating, it's advisable to review your website for any signs of compromise or unusual activity, especially in the areas where the plugin's widgets are used. If any suspicious activity is detected, consider contacting a security professional to conduct a thorough audit.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires tricking a user into clicking a malicious link, stored XSS vulnerabilities allow the injected scripts to be permanently stored on the target server, such as in a database, and executed when users access the affected page. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can lead to a wide range of exploits, from stealing user session cookies to delivering malware. Stored XSS attacks can significantly damage a website's reputation by compromising user trust and security.

Q: How can I prevent future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How can I prevent future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? To prevent future vulnerabilities, regularly update all WordPress plugins, themes, and the core software as soon as new versions are released. Consider using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and monitoring features to detect potential threats. Additionally, practice the principle of least privilege by limiting user access levels on your WordPress site and using strong, unique passwords for all accounts. Staying informed about the latest security trends and best practices in WordPress management can also help in mitigating potential risks.

Q: Can updating the Elementor Addons plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

Can updating the Elementor Addons plugin cause compatibility issues with my site? While updating plugins is crucial for security, there is a possibility that new versions can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To minimize potential disruptions, it's a good practice to test plugin updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site. If you encounter issues after an update, you can temporarily revert to a previous version while troubleshooting the problem. However, keep in mind that using outdated plugins can expose your site to security risks, so resolving compatibility issues promptly is essential.

Q: Are there alternatives to the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin?

Are there alternatives to the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin? Yes, there are several alternative plugins available that offer similar functionalities to Elementor Addons by Livemesh. Some popular options include Essential Addons for Elementor, Ultimate Addons for Elementor, and PowerPack Addons for Elementor. Each of these plugins provides a range of widgets and features to enhance your Elementor experience. When considering an alternative, evaluate the features, user reviews, and the plugin's update history to ensure it meets your needs and maintains a strong security posture.

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

How do I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins can be achieved by subscribing to security blogs, forums, and newsletters that focus on WordPress security. Websites like WPScan Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri regularly publish information on discovered vulnerabilities and security best practices. Additionally, setting up alerts for updates and security patches for your installed plugins and regularly reviewing your site's security settings can help in early detection and prevention of potential security issues.

Q: What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-0448 or any other vulnerability, the first step is to update all affected plugins to their latest secure versions. Following the update, conduct a thorough audit of your site for any malicious changes or uploads. Consider enlisting the help of a professional security service to clean your site and restore it to a safe state. Once the immediate threat is addressed, review your site's security measures to prevent future compromises, such as implementing stronger access controls, using security plugins, and regularly scanning your site for vulnerabilities.

By Your WP Guy | January 25, 2024

Plugin Name: Elementor Addons by Livemesh

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: addons-for-elementor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: livemesh
Software Downloads: 3,692,182
Active Installs: 70,000
Last Updated: January 30, 2024
Patched Versions: 8.3.2
Affected Versions: <= 8.3.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Elementor Addons by Livemesh <= 8.3.1
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-2024-0448
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: January 25, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through the plugin's widget URL parameters in all versions up to and including 8.3.1. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages. These scripts can execute whenever a user accesses an injected page, posing a significant security risk.

Summary:

The Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress harbors a vulnerability in versions up to and including 8.3.1, which allows authenticated contributors or higher to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's widget URL parameters. This vulnerability has been addressed and patched in version 8.3.2.

Detailed Overview:

Identified by the researcher known as Webbernaut, this vulnerability exposes websites to potential security breaches by allowing contributors with malicious intent to inject executable scripts into web pages. The injected content can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of the users visiting the compromised pages, including data theft, session hijacking, and the spread of malware. The Elementor Addons plugin, widely used for enhancing Elementor with additional widgets and features, becomes a critical point of concern due to its widespread adoption and the level of access required to exploit this vulnerability.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin should immediately update to the latest version, 8.3.2, which contains the necessary patches to mitigate this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Website administrators are advised to review their sites for any unusual or unauthorized changes to widget URL parameters or other signs of compromise.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is secure, users may consider exploring alternative plugins that offer similar functionalities as a precautionary measure against future vulnerabilities.
Stay Updated: It is crucial for website owners and administrators to regularly update all WordPress plugins, themes, and the core system to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift response by Livemesh to patch the vulnerability in the Elementor Addons plugin highlights the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software on your WordPress site. By updating to version 8.3.2 or later, users can safeguard their websites against this specific security threat. Keeping software updated, along with regular security audits, can significantly reduce the risk posed by potential vulnerabilities.

References:

In the fast-evolving digital landscape, the security of a WordPress website can never be overstated, especially when popular plugins become the target of vulnerabilities. The recent identification of a critical security flaw in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin, marked as CVE-2024-0448, serves as a stark reminder of the constant vigilance required to protect online assets. This vulnerability, which allows for Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through insufficient input sanitization, underscores the need for website owners to regularly update and monitor their digital platforms.

Elementor Addons by Livemesh: A Popular Plugin at Risk

Elementor Addons by Livemesh enhances WordPress sites with additional widgets and features, boasting over 70,000 active installs and nearly 3.7 million downloads. Its functionality and popularity make it an integral component of many websites, but this also means that vulnerabilities within the plugin can have widespread implications.

Understanding the Vulnerability: CVE-2024-0448

CVE-2024-0448 exposes websites to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks by allowing users with at least contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts via the plugin's widget URL parameters. This flaw, discovered by the researcher known as Webbernaut, affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 8.3.1 and has been publicly disclosed since January 25, 2024.

The Risks and Potential Impacts

The vulnerability presents significant security risks, including unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, data theft, session hijacking, and the spread of malware. The nature of Stored XSS means that the injected scripts can persist on the website, affecting multiple users over time and potentially damaging the site's reputation and user trust.

Remediation and Prevention

To mitigate the vulnerability, users must update the Elementor Addons plugin to version 8.3.2, which includes the necessary patches. Website administrators should also review their sites for any signs of compromise and remain vigilant for future updates. Considering alternative plugins with similar functionality may provide an additional layer of security, especially for those concerned about recurring vulnerabilities.

Historical Context: Learning from the Past

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been found in the Elementor Addons plugin, with five previous instances reported since February 25, 2019. These historical vulnerabilities highlight the importance of continuous monitoring and updating as part of a proactive security strategy.

The Critical Importance of Vigilance in Web Security

For small business owners managing WordPress websites, the challenge of staying abreast of security updates can be daunting amidst myriad other responsibilities. However, the potential consequences of neglecting website security—from data breaches to loss of customer trust—can be far more burdensome. Leveraging automated update features within WordPress, utilizing security plugins, and occasionally consulting with cybersecurity professionals can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and ensure the continuous protection of your digital presence.

In conclusion, the discovery of CVE-2024-0448 in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin is a critical reminder of the ever-present threats in the digital realm. Staying informed, regularly updating software, and adopting a proactive approach to website security are indispensable practices for safeguarding your online assets against potential vulnerabilities. For small business owners, prioritizing these practices not only protects their websites but also preserves their reputation and the trust of their customers in an increasingly interconnected world.

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 Addons by Livemesh Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0448 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0448?

CVE-2024-0448 is a unique identifier assigned to a specific security vulnerability found in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, which allows attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts through the plugin's widget URL parameters.

This vulnerability poses significant security risks, as it can lead to unauthorized actions, data theft, session hijacking, and the potential spread of malware. The ability for these scripts to persist on the website means that any visitor could be affected, making it a critical issue for site owners to address.

How does CVE-2024-0448 affect WordPress websites?

Websites using the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin versions up to and including 8.3.1 are at risk from the CVE-2024-0448 vulnerability. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor or higher access to exploit the plugin's widget URL parameters to inject harmful scripts.

The impact of such exploitation can be severe, including unauthorized data access, manipulation of website content, and compromise of visitor's personal information. Given the plugin's popularity, a large number of sites could be at risk if they don't update to a secure version.

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0448?

To determine if your site is vulnerable, you need to check the version of the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 8.3.1 or earlier, it is vulnerable to attacks exploiting CVE-2024-0448.

You can find the plugin version by accessing the WordPress admin dashboard, navigating to the "Plugins" section, and locating the Elementor Addons by Livemesh in your list of installed plugins. The version number is usually listed alongside the plugin name.

What immediate steps should I take if my site is affected?

If your site is affected by CVE-2024-0448, the first and most crucial step is to update the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin to version 8.3.2 or later, where the vulnerability has been patched. You can update the plugin directly from your WordPress admin dashboard under the "Plugins" section.

After updating, it's advisable to review your website for any signs of compromise or unusual activity, especially in the areas where the plugin's widgets are used. If any suspicious activity is detected, consider contacting a security professional to conduct a thorough audit.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker can inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires tricking a user into clicking a malicious link, stored XSS vulnerabilities allow the injected scripts to be permanently stored on the target server, such as in a database, and executed when users access the affected page.

This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can lead to a wide range of exploits, from stealing user session cookies to delivering malware. Stored XSS attacks can significantly damage a website's reputation by compromising user trust and security.

How can I prevent future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

To prevent future vulnerabilities, regularly update all WordPress plugins, themes, and the core software as soon as new versions are released. Consider using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and monitoring features to detect potential threats.

Additionally, practice the principle of least privilege by limiting user access levels on your WordPress site and using strong, unique passwords for all accounts. Staying informed about the latest security trends and best practices in WordPress management can also help in mitigating potential risks.

Can updating the Elementor Addons plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

While updating plugins is crucial for security, there is a possibility that new versions can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To minimize potential disruptions, it's a good practice to test plugin updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site.

If you encounter issues after an update, you can temporarily revert to a previous version while troubleshooting the problem. However, keep in mind that using outdated plugins can expose your site to security risks, so resolving compatibility issues promptly is essential.

Are there alternatives to the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins available that offer similar functionalities to Elementor Addons by Livemesh. Some popular options include Essential Addons for Elementor, Ultimate Addons for Elementor, and PowerPack Addons for Elementor. Each of these plugins provides a range of widgets and features to enhance your Elementor experience.

When considering an alternative, evaluate the features, user reviews, and the plugin's update history to ensure it meets your needs and maintains a strong security posture.

How do I stay informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins can be achieved by subscribing to security blogs, forums, and newsletters that focus on WordPress security. Websites like WPScan Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri regularly publish information on discovered vulnerabilities and security best practices.

Additionally, setting up alerts for updates and security patches for your installed plugins and regularly reviewing your site's security settings can help in early detection and prevention of potential security issues.

What should I do if my site has already been compromised due to this vulnerability?

If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-0448 or any other vulnerability, the first step is to update all affected plugins to their latest secure versions. Following the update, conduct a thorough audit of your site for any malicious changes or uploads.

Consider enlisting the help of a professional security service to clean your site and restore it to a safe state. Once the immediate threat is addressed, review your site's security measures to prevent future compromises, such as implementing stronger access controls, using security plugins, and regularly scanning your site for vulnerabilities.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-0448, cybersecurity for small business, Elementor Addons vulnerability, Livemesh, Plugin Update, web security best practices, Website Protection, WordPress Plugin Safety, wordpress security, XSS Attack