Elementor Addons by Livemesh Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-2539 & CVE-2024-2655 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)?

What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)? Stored cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into content that is saved on a website's database. These scripts are then inadvertently executed by other users when they load the infected content from the website. This type of attack is particularly dangerous because the malicious code is stored on the server and can affect many users over a long period of time if not promptly addressed.

Q: How can I tell if my website has been affected by this XSS vulnerability?

How can I tell if my website has been affected by this XSS vulnerability? To determine if your website has been compromised by an XSS vulnerability, look for unexpected changes or behavior on your site. This could include strange pop-ups, unusual content appearing, or redirects to other pages. It's also wise to check the HTML source code of your website's pages for any script tags or JavaScript code that you do not recognize.

Q: What should I do if I find my website has been compromised?

What should I do if I find my website has been compromised? If you suspect your website has been compromised due to an XSS vulnerability, the first step is to remove any suspicious scripts or content from your site's pages and database. Next, update the vulnerable plugin or software to the latest version that includes a security patch. Finally, inform your users of the breach, especially if sensitive information may have been accessed, and consider contacting a cybersecurity professional to ensure all vulnerabilities are addressed.

Q: Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Why is it important to update plugins regularly? Regularly updating plugins is crucial because updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version. By keeping your plugins up to date, you minimize the risk of your site being exploited through known vulnerabilities. Developers release updates not only to add new features but also to fix bugs and close security holes.

Q: Can an XSS attack affect my website's SEO?

Can an XSS attack affect my website's SEO? Yes, an XSS attack can negatively impact your website's SEO. Search engines like Google strive to provide safe browsing experiences and may blacklist sites that have been compromised. This can drastically reduce your site's visibility and traffic. Additionally, malicious scripts may alter or hide content that is important for SEO, further harming your site's rankings.

Q: What is the difference between stored XSS and reflected XSS?

What is the difference between stored XSS and reflected XSS? Stored XSS attacks involve injecting malicious scripts that are saved on a server and executed when data is retrieved. Reflected XSS attacks occur when malicious scripts are included in a request (like a URL or form input) that is immediately echoed by the server in an error message, search result, or another response. Both types of attacks involve executing scripts in the user's browser but differ in how the malicious script is delivered to the browser.

Q: What roles can access and exploit this XSS vulnerability?

What roles can access and exploit this XSS vulnerability? The vulnerabilities in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh specifically allowed authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to exploit them. This means that individuals who have been granted some level of trust and access rights within the website, such as contributors or authors, could inject malicious scripts if they are malicious or their accounts are compromised.

Q: Are there any tools to help detect XSS vulnerabilities on my site?

Are there any tools to help detect XSS vulnerabilities on my site? Yes, there are several tools available that can help detect XSS vulnerabilities. Automated security scanners and vulnerability assessment tools can scan your web applications for common security issues, including XSS. Popular tools include OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, and various online services that can perform security audits on your web applications.

Q: Should I switch to another plugin if recurring vulnerabilities are found in the one I'm using?

Should I switch to another plugin if recurring vulnerabilities are found in the one I'm using? If a plugin you're using frequently has security issues, it's worth considering a switch to a more secure alternative. Regular vulnerabilities can expose your site to repeated security risks, potentially damaging your reputation and user trust. Before switching, evaluate the security track record of alternative plugins and consider the features and support they offer. Choosing a plugin with a strong emphasis on security and regular updates can help safeguard your website in the long run.

By Your WP Guy | April 9, 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: 3,814,639
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: April 16, 2024
Patched Versions: 8.3.7
Affected Versions: <= 8.3.6

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Name: Elementor Addons by Livemesh <= 8.3.6
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via widget _id attribute
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2539
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 9, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via widget '_id' attributes in all versions up to, and including, 8.3.6 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Name: Elementor Addons by Livemesh <= 8.3.6
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Display Name
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2655
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 9, 2024
Researcher: stealthcopter
Description: The Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's Post widgets in all versions up to, and including, 8.3.5 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on author display names. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts that execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin for WordPress has vulnerabilities in versions up to and including 8.3.6 that allow authenticated users with contributor access or higher to perform stored cross-site scripting attacks via both widget _id attributes and display names. These vulnerabilities have been patched in version 8.3.7.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerabilities in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin pose significant security risks, potentially allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts, steal user data, or take over user sessions. These flaws were identified in two different components of the plugin: widget '_id' attributes and display names in post widgets. The patches in version 8.3.7 address these issues by improving input sanitization and output escaping, crucial steps in protecting against XSS attacks.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update your Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin to version 8.3.7 immediately to secure your website.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your website’s pages and logs for any signs of unauthorized script injections or other suspicious activities.
Alternate Plugins: Consider using alternative plugins that provide similar functionality but with a robust security track record as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Consistently keeping your plugins updated to the latest versions is key to minimizing the risk of security vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action by the developers of Elementor Addons by Livemesh in releasing a security patch demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current updates. Users are advised to upgrade to version 8.3.7 or later to ensure the security of their WordPress installations against these XSS vulnerabilities.

References:

Detailed Report:

As the digital landscape evolves, so do the strategies of cyber attackers, making the task of keeping a website secure increasingly challenging. The recent discovery of vulnerabilities in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh—a popular WordPress plugin with over 3.8 million downloads—serves as a stark reminder of why constant vigilance is essential. These vulnerabilities, identified in versions up to and including 8.3.6, could allow attackers to perform stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, exploiting website elements like widget '_id' attributes and author display names to inject harmful scripts.

Vulnerability Insights:

Two significant vulnerabilities were publicized on April 9, 2024, affecting the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin:

CVE-2024-2539: Stored Cross-Site Scripting via widget '_id' attributes allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject web scripts that execute on user visits.
CVE-2024-2655: Similar XSS vulnerability through the plugin's Post widgets’ display names, posing threats of unauthorized data manipulation or access.

Risks and Impacts:

These vulnerabilities expose websites to several risks, including data theft, unauthorized session control, and a damaged reputation due to compromised user security. The potential for these exploits highlights the critical nature of web security and the impact on business continuity and trust.

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Since its release, the Elementor Addons by Livemesh plugin has experienced 14 documented vulnerabilities. This historical context emphasizes the need for ongoing updates and security practices.

Conclusion:

The swift response by the developers of Elementor Addons by Livemesh in releasing a security patch demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining current updates. Regular software updates are essential defenses against potential breaches, and staying informed through security advisories can preempt significant crises. For small business owners, leveraging tools that automate these processes can help maintain security without requiring constant attention.

In an era where digital presence is intertwined with business success, ensuring the integrity of your online platforms through proactive security measures isn’t just recommended; it’s imperative. By understanding the risks and adopting a rigorous security protocol, you can protect not only your data but also the trust your customers place in your digital hands.

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 Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-2539 & CVE-2024-2655 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)?

Stored cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into content that is saved on a website's database. These scripts are then inadvertently executed by other users when they load the infected content from the website. This type of attack is particularly dangerous because the malicious code is stored on the server and can affect many users over a long period of time if not promptly addressed.

How can I tell if my website has been affected by this XSS vulnerability?

To determine if your website has been compromised by an XSS vulnerability, look for unexpected changes or behavior on your site. This could include strange pop-ups, unusual content appearing, or redirects to other pages. It's also wise to check the HTML source code of your website's pages for any script tags or JavaScript code that you do not recognize.

What should I do if I find my website has been compromised?

If you suspect your website has been compromised due to an XSS vulnerability, the first step is to remove any suspicious scripts or content from your site's pages and database. Next, update the vulnerable plugin or software to the latest version that includes a security patch. Finally, inform your users of the breach, especially if sensitive information may have been accessed, and consider contacting a cybersecurity professional to ensure all vulnerabilities are addressed.

Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Regularly updating plugins is crucial because updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version. By keeping your plugins up to date, you minimize the risk of your site being exploited through known vulnerabilities. Developers release updates not only to add new features but also to fix bugs and close security holes.

Can an XSS attack affect my website's SEO?

Yes, an XSS attack can negatively impact your website's SEO. Search engines like Google strive to provide safe browsing experiences and may blacklist sites that have been compromised. This can drastically reduce your site's visibility and traffic. Additionally, malicious scripts may alter or hide content that is important for SEO, further harming your site's rankings.

How can I prevent XSS vulnerabilities in the future?

To prevent XSS vulnerabilities, always sanitize and validate any user input on your site. This means checking that the data conforms to expected parameters and encoding any output that will be rendered in a browser. Using web application firewalls (WAFs) and security plugins that specifically protect against XSS attacks can also be effective. Additionally, staying informed about the latest security practices and updates for the software you use is vital.

What is the difference between stored XSS and reflected XSS?

Stored XSS attacks involve injecting malicious scripts that are saved on a server and executed when data is retrieved. Reflected XSS attacks occur when malicious scripts are included in a request (like a URL or form input) that is immediately echoed by the server in an error message, search result, or another response. Both types of attacks involve executing scripts in the user's browser but differ in how the malicious script is delivered to the browser.

What roles can access and exploit this XSS vulnerability?

The vulnerabilities in the Elementor Addons by Livemesh specifically allowed authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to exploit them. This means that individuals who have been granted some level of trust and access rights within the website, such as contributors or authors, could inject malicious scripts if they are malicious or their accounts are compromised.

Are there any tools to help detect XSS vulnerabilities on my site?

Yes, there are several tools available that can help detect XSS vulnerabilities. Automated security scanners and vulnerability assessment tools can scan your web applications for common security issues, including XSS. Popular tools include OWASP ZAP, Burp Suite, and various online services that can perform security audits on your web applications.

Should I switch to another plugin if recurring vulnerabilities are found in the one I'm using?

If a plugin you're using frequently has security issues, it's worth considering a switch to a more secure alternative. Regular vulnerabilities can expose your site to repeated security risks, potentially damaging your reputation and user trust. Before switching, evaluate the security track record of alternative plugins and consider the features and support they offer. Choosing a plugin with a strong emphasis on security and regular updates can help safeguard your website in the long run.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2539, CVE-2024-2655, cyber security for small business, Elementor Addons vulnerability, maintaining digital trust, Plugin Updates, web security best practices, Website Protection, wordpress security, XSS attacks

Plugin Name: Elementor Addons by Livemesh

Key Information:

Vulnerability 1 Details:

Vulnerability 2 Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Vulnerability Insights:

Risks and Impacts:

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Elementor Addons by Livemesh Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerabilities – CVE-2024-2539 & CVE-2024-2655 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is stored cross-site scripting (XSS)?

How can I tell if my website has been affected by this XSS vulnerability?

What should I do if I find my website has been compromised?

Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Can an XSS attack affect my website's SEO?

How can I prevent XSS vulnerabilities in the future?

What is the difference between stored XSS and reflected XSS?

What roles can access and exploit this XSS vulnerability?

Are there any tools to help detect XSS vulnerabilities on my site?

Should I switch to another plugin if recurring vulnerabilities are found in the one I'm using?

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