Elementor Header & Footer Builder Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1237 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report 

Plugin Name: Elementor Header & Footer Builder

Key Information:

  • Software Type: Plugin
  • Software Slug: header-footer-elementor
  • Software Status: Active
  • Software Author: brainstormforce
  • Software Downloads: 24,612,698
  • Active Installs: 1,000,000
  • Last Updated: March 13, 2024
  • Patched Versions: 1.6.25
  • Affected Versions: <= 1.6.24

Vulnerability Details:

  • Name: Elementor Header & Footer Builder <= 1.6.24
  • 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-2024-1237
  • CVSS Score: 6.4
  • Publicly Published: March 11, 2024
  • Researcher: wesley
  • Description: The Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin is at risk of Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks through the 'flyout_layout' attribute in all versions up to 1.6.24. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, allowing authenticated users with at least contributor-level permissions to execute arbitrary scripts.

Summary:

The widely used Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin has been identified with a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.6.24, compromising the security of WordPress sites. Designated as CVE-2024-1237, this vulnerability permits authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks via the 'flyout_layout' attribute, posing a significant threat to site integrity and user privacy. However, this issue has been addressed in the latest version, 1.6.25.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by the security researcher Wesley, CVE-2024-1237 highlights the critical importance of strict input validation and output encoding in web applications, especially in plugins that offer customization capabilities. The potential for XSS attacks through such vulnerabilities underscores the need for comprehensive security practices in plugin development and maintenance.

Advice for Users:

  • Immediate Action: Upgrade to version 1.6.25 of the Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin to secure your site against this vulnerability.
  • Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your site for unusual content changes or activities, which could indicate exploitation.
  • Alternate Plugins: While the updated version is deemed secure, users may explore other header and footer builder plugins that might offer enhanced security features or functionalities.
  • Stay Updated: Keeping all WordPress components, including plugins and themes, updated is essential for security and performance.

Conclusion:

The prompt resolution of CVE-2024-1237 in the Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin underscores the ongoing challenge of cybersecurity in the WordPress ecosystem. For site administrators, especially those managing sites for small businesses with limited IT resources, understanding the critical role of timely software updates is paramount. Ensuring the use of secure, up-to-date plugins is key to safeguarding digital assets and maintaining user trust.

References:

In the digital age, keeping WordPress sites secure is paramount, especially with the ever-present threats lurking in seemingly benign components like plugins. This is highlighted by the recent discovery of a vulnerability in the widely used Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin, which brings to light the critical need for regular updates and vigilant security practices.

Plugin Overview:

The Elementor Header & Footer Builder, developed by brainstormforce, is a popular plugin that allows WordPress users to create custom headers and footers. With over 24 million downloads and 1 million active installs, its widespread use makes any vulnerabilities a significant concern for many websites.

Vulnerability Details:

Identified as CVE-2024-1237, the vulnerability exists in versions up to and including 1.6.24. It allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks through the 'flyout_layout' attribute. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, posing risks such as unauthorized data access, website defacement, and the potential spread of malware.

Risks and Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could compromise site integrity and user privacy, leading to unauthorized access and data manipulation. It underscores the importance of role-based access controls and robust security measures in plugin development and maintenance.

Remediation:

The vulnerability has been patched in version 1.6.25. Users are urged to update immediately to mitigate potential risks. Site administrators should also regularly monitor their sites for unusual activities or content changes that may indicate exploitation.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

This is not the first vulnerability discovered in the Elementor Header & Footer Builder plugin, with one previous issue reported since April 13, 2021. This history emphasizes the need for continuous monitoring and updating of all WordPress components.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-1237 serves as a reminder of the constant challenges and importance of cybersecurity vigilance within the WordPress ecosystem. For site administrators, especially those managing small business sites with limited IT resources, understanding the critical role of timely software updates and security awareness is essential for protecting digital assets. Proactive security measures, including staying informed about vulnerabilities and ensuring the use of secure, updated plugins, are key to maintaining a secure and trustworthy online presence.

For small business owners, this incident highlights the importance of partnering with web development and security professionals who can manage and secure their WordPress sites effectively, ensuring that their digital presence remains robust against evolving cyber threats.

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 Header & Footer Builder Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1237 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

Leave a Comment