ElementsKit Elementor addons Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Local File Inclusion in render_raw – CVE-2024-2047 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-2047?

What is CVE-2024-2047? CVE-2024-2047 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows users with contributor-level access or higher to execute arbitrary files on the server. The risk involves unauthorized access to sensitive information, website functionality disruption, or complete website compromise. The vulnerability was identified in versions up to and including 3.0.6 of the plugin. The issue was addressed and patched in version 3.0.7 by the plugin developers at xpeedstudio. Users are urged to update to the patched version to secure their websites.

Q: How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability? To determine if your website is affected by CVE-2024-2047, you should first check the version of the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin you are using. If your website is running a version of the plugin that is 3.0.6 or lower, your site is vulnerable. It's also wise to review your website and server logs for any unusual activity that could indicate exploitation. Look for signs such as unexpected file inclusions, suspicious user activities, or files that you did not upload. If you find such anomalies, it may be a sign that your site has been compromised.

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

What should I do if my website has been compromised? If you suspect that your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin to version 3.0.7 or higher. This update addresses the vulnerability and closes the security gap. After updating, conduct a thorough audit of your website. Look for any unauthorized changes to files, newly created users, or suspicious files that have been uploaded. You may need to restore your website from a backup if significant changes have been made. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional can provide additional guidance and support.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins I can use instead of ElementsKit Elementor addons?

Are there any alternative plugins I can use instead of ElementsKit Elementor addons? While ElementsKit Elementor addons is a popular plugin with a wide range of functionalities, several alternatives exist that can provide similar features. Some popular alternatives include Ultimate Addons for Elementor, Essential Addons for Elementor, and PowerPack for Elementor. When choosing an alternative, it's crucial to research and ensure that the plugin is regularly updated and maintained by its developers. Regular updates are a good indicator of the plugin's security and reliability.

Q: How can I stay updated on potential vulnerabilities in the plugins I use?

How can I stay updated on potential vulnerabilities in the plugins I use? Staying updated on potential vulnerabilities in the plugins you use is crucial for maintaining website security. One way to stay informed is by subscribing to security advisories and newsletters from reputable sources in the WordPress community, such as the WordPress Security Team, Wordfence, and Sucuri. Additionally, regularly checking the official plugin repositories for updates and reading the changelogs can provide insights into security fixes and updates. Automated tools and services that monitor your website for vulnerabilities and outdated plugins can also be invaluable.

Q: Why are plugin updates important for website security?

Why are plugin updates important for website security? Plugin updates are crucial for website security because they often include patches for known vulnerabilities. By ignoring or delaying updates, you leave your website exposed to potential exploits that could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security issues. Regularly updating plugins ensures that you benefit from the latest security improvements and feature enhancements. This practice is a foundational aspect of maintaining a secure and reliable online presence for your business.

Q: Can a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability like CVE-2024-2047 be prevented?

Can a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability like CVE-2024-2047 be prevented? Preventing Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerabilities involves a combination of secure coding practices by plugin developers and diligent security practices by website administrators. Developers should follow best practices in coding to ensure that file inclusion functions are securely implemented. Website administrators can mitigate the risk by using security plugins that offer firewall and hardening features, regularly updating all website components, and employing least privilege principles for user accounts. Education on security best practices is also vital for prevention.

Q: What are the implications of a Local File Inclusion vulnerability for a small business website?

What are the implications of a Local File Inclusion vulnerability for a small business website? For a small business website, a Local File Inclusion vulnerability like CVE-2024-2047 can have serious implications. It can lead to sensitive data exposure, unauthorized website content changes, and even complete site takeover by malicious actors. Such security breaches can damage a business's reputation, erode customer trust, and potentially lead to financial losses. It's essential for small business owners to understand these risks and take proactive steps to secure their digital assets.

Q: How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins? It's advisable to check for updates to your WordPress plugins at least once a week. However, for websites that are critical to your business operations or handle sensitive information, more frequent checks are recommended. Many hosting providers and WordPress management tools offer automatic update features that can alleviate some of the burdens. However, it's important to ensure that updates do not break site functionality, which may require a more manual, controlled update process.

Q: What role does the hosting environment play in website security?

What role does the hosting environment play in website security? The hosting environment plays a significant role in website security. A good hosting provider will offer features like regular backups, firewalls, malware scanning, and automatic updates, which can significantly enhance your website's security posture. When choosing a hosting provider, it's important to consider their security features and their reputation for handling security issues. Additionally, using managed WordPress hosting can offer additional layers of security tailored specifically for WordPress websites.

By Your WP Guy | March 29, 2024

Plugin Name: ElementsKit Elementor addons

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: elementskit-lite
Software Status: Active
Software Author: xpeedstudio
Software Downloads: 17,423,199
Active Installs: 1,000,000
Last Updated: April 1, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.0.7
Affected Versions: <= 3.0.6

Vulnerability Details:

Name: ElementsKit Elementor addons <= 3.0.6 Authenticated (Contributor+) Local File Inclusion in render_raw
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-2047
CVSS Score: 8.8
Publicly Published: March 29, 2024
Researcher: Wesley
Description: The ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in versions up to and including 3.0.6 via the render_raw function. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access or higher, to include and execute arbitrary files on the server. This can lead to bypassing access controls, obtaining sensitive data, or executing code, especially when "safe" file types like images can be uploaded and included.

Summary:

The ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin for WordPress has a significant vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.0.6 that allows authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to exploit Local File Inclusion via the render_raw function. This vulnerability has been addressed and patched in version 3.0.7.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by researcher Wesley, this vulnerability within the render_raw function of ElementsKit Elementor addons poses a serious security risk, potentially allowing attackers to include malicious PHP code on the server. This risk is exacerbated by the plugin's wide usage, with over a million active installs. The swift response by xpeedstudio to patch this in version 3.0.7 highlights the critical nature of the vulnerability.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users should immediately update to version 3.0.7 to mitigate the vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review server logs for any unusual activity or file inclusion attempts, especially from users with contributor-level access.
Alternate Plugins: Consider alternative plugins offering similar functionalities as a precaution, even though a patch is available.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all plugins to their latest versions to prevent potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The rapid response by the ElementsKit Elementor addons' development team to fix this vulnerability underscores the necessity of keeping software up to date. To secure WordPress installations, users must ensure they are running version 3.0.7 or later of this plugin.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the ever-evolving digital landscape, your website stands as the digital storefront of your business, embodying its essence and values to the world. Yet, this digital embodiment is not without its vulnerabilities, as highlighted by the recent discovery of a significant security flaw in the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin, CVE-2024-2047. This incident serves as a potent reminder of the crucial need for vigilance and the constant maintenance of your digital presence to safeguard it from potential threats.

The Plugin at the Heart of the Matter

The ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin, developed by xpeedstudio, is a cornerstone for over a million WordPress sites, enriching them with a wide array of functionalities. As of April 1, 2024, this plugin had been downloaded over 17 million times, a testament to its popularity and integral role in the WordPress ecosystem.

Unveiling the Vulnerability

CVE-2024-2047, discovered by a researcher named Wesley, is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability present in versions of the plugin up to and including 3.0.6. This flaw allows authenticated users, with contributor-level access or higher, to inject and execute arbitrary files on the server. Such a breach could potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data, disruption of website functionality, or even a full-scale compromise of the website's integrity.

The Risks and Impacts

The implications of this vulnerability cannot be overstated. For small business owners, a compromised website could mean not just a temporary setback, but a significant loss of customer trust, revenue, and the potential exposure of sensitive information. The fact that this plugin had faced seven vulnerabilities since April 13, 2021, underscores the persistent threat landscape that online assets navigate.

Steps Towards Remediation

In response to the discovery, xpeedstudio acted swiftly to release a patched version of the plugin, 3.0.7, effectively closing the door on this specific vulnerability. Users of the plugin are strongly advised to update to this latest version immediately to secure their sites. Furthermore, regular audits of server logs for unusual activities and the consideration of alternative plugins are prudent steps towards a robust defense.

A Look Back: Previous Vulnerabilities

The history of vulnerabilities in the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing battle between maintaining functionality and ensuring security. Each incident, while resolved, adds to the collective learning and the continuous improvement of security practices within the WordPress community.

The Imperative of Vigilance

For small business owners, the digital realm offers immense opportunities but also poses significant risks. The recent vulnerability in the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin highlights the critical importance of staying abreast of security updates and vulnerabilities. In an era where time is a scarce commodity, leveraging managed WordPress hosting services, subscribing to security advisories, and partnering with cybersecurity professionals can alleviate the burden of constant vigilance, allowing you to focus on growing your business while ensuring its digital embodiment remains secure and trustworthy.

In conclusion, the digital security of your WordPress website is not just about protecting data; it's about safeguarding your business's reputation and the trust of your customers. The proactive management of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2047 is not just a technical necessity but a fundamental business practice in today's digital age.

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.

ElementsKit Elementor addons Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Local File Inclusion in render_raw – CVE-2024-2047 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2047?

CVE-2024-2047 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows users with contributor-level access or higher to execute arbitrary files on the server. The risk involves unauthorized access to sensitive information, website functionality disruption, or complete website compromise.

The vulnerability was identified in versions up to and including 3.0.6 of the plugin. The issue was addressed and patched in version 3.0.7 by the plugin developers at xpeedstudio. Users are urged to update to the patched version to secure their websites.

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

To determine if your website is affected by CVE-2024-2047, you should first check the version of the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin you are using. If your website is running a version of the plugin that is 3.0.6 or lower, your site is vulnerable.

It's also wise to review your website and server logs for any unusual activity that could indicate exploitation. Look for signs such as unexpected file inclusions, suspicious user activities, or files that you did not upload. If you find such anomalies, it may be a sign that your site has been compromised.

What should I do if my website has been compromised?

If you suspect that your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability, the first step is to update the ElementsKit Elementor addons plugin to version 3.0.7 or higher. This update addresses the vulnerability and closes the security gap.

After updating, conduct a thorough audit of your website. Look for any unauthorized changes to files, newly created users, or suspicious files that have been uploaded. You may need to restore your website from a backup if significant changes have been made. Consulting with a cybersecurity professional can provide additional guidance and support.

Are there any alternative plugins I can use instead of ElementsKit Elementor addons?

While ElementsKit Elementor addons is a popular plugin with a wide range of functionalities, several alternatives exist that can provide similar features. Some popular alternatives include Ultimate Addons for Elementor, Essential Addons for Elementor, and PowerPack for Elementor.

When choosing an alternative, it's crucial to research and ensure that the plugin is regularly updated and maintained by its developers. Regular updates are a good indicator of the plugin's security and reliability.

How can I stay updated on potential vulnerabilities in the plugins I use?

Staying updated on potential vulnerabilities in the plugins you use is crucial for maintaining website security. One way to stay informed is by subscribing to security advisories and newsletters from reputable sources in the WordPress community, such as the WordPress Security Team, Wordfence, and Sucuri.

Additionally, regularly checking the official plugin repositories for updates and reading the changelogs can provide insights into security fixes and updates. Automated tools and services that monitor your website for vulnerabilities and outdated plugins can also be invaluable.

Why are plugin updates important for website security?

Plugin updates are crucial for website security because they often include patches for known vulnerabilities. By ignoring or delaying updates, you leave your website exposed to potential exploits that could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and other security issues.

Regularly updating plugins ensures that you benefit from the latest security improvements and feature enhancements. This practice is a foundational aspect of maintaining a secure and reliable online presence for your business.

Can a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability like CVE-2024-2047 be prevented?

Preventing Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerabilities involves a combination of secure coding practices by plugin developers and diligent security practices by website administrators. Developers should follow best practices in coding to ensure that file inclusion functions are securely implemented.

Website administrators can mitigate the risk by using security plugins that offer firewall and hardening features, regularly updating all website components, and employing least privilege principles for user accounts. Education on security best practices is also vital for prevention.

What are the implications of a Local File Inclusion vulnerability for a small business website?

For a small business website, a Local File Inclusion vulnerability like CVE-2024-2047 can have serious implications. It can lead to sensitive data exposure, unauthorized website content changes, and even complete site takeover by malicious actors.

Such security breaches can damage a business's reputation, erode customer trust, and potentially lead to financial losses. It's essential for small business owners to understand these risks and take proactive steps to secure their digital assets.

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

It's advisable to check for updates to your WordPress plugins at least once a week. However, for websites that are critical to your business operations or handle sensitive information, more frequent checks are recommended.

Many hosting providers and WordPress management tools offer automatic update features that can alleviate some of the burdens. However, it's important to ensure that updates do not break site functionality, which may require a more manual, controlled update process.

What role does the hosting environment play in website security?

The hosting environment plays a significant role in website security. A good hosting provider will offer features like regular backups, firewalls, malware scanning, and automatic updates, which can significantly enhance your website's security posture.

When choosing a hosting provider, it's important to consider their security features and their reputation for handling security issues. Additionally, using managed WordPress hosting can offer additional layers of security tailored specifically for WordPress websites.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2047, Cybersecurity, digital risk management, ElementsKit Elementor addons, ElementsKit vulnerability, Plugin Updates, web security for small business, Website Protection, WordPress plugin vulnerability, wordpress security