Email Encoder Vulnerability – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-7070 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2023-7070?

What is CVE-2023-7070? CVE-2023-7070 is a specific identifier for a security vulnerability discovered in the Email Encoder – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers plugin for WordPress. Classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, it affects versions of the plugin up to and including 2.1.9. This vulnerability results from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin’s eeb_mailto shortcode. It enables authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages, posing a significant security risk to WordPress websites using this plugin.

Q: How does the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

How does the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability affect WordPress websites? If your WordPress website uses a vulnerable version of the Email Encoder plugin, attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This means they can inject harmful scripts into your web pages, which can then be executed by other users visiting your site. These scripts can compromise website security and user data. Potential impacts include unauthorized data access, website defacement, and theft of sensitive information, posing a significant risk to the website's integrity and the trust of its visitors.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of web security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into a website's database. These scripts are then rendered and executed when other users access the compromised web pages. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users and persist over time, leading to ongoing security breaches. It can result in data theft, session hijacking, and other malicious activities, making it essential to address promptly.

Q: Why is updating the Email Encoder plugin important?

Why is updating the Email Encoder plugin important? Updating the Email Encoder plugin is crucial to protect your website from the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability. The latest version, 2.1.10, includes a patch that fixes this security issue, preventing potential exploits. Regular updates ensure that plugins maintain compatibility with the latest WordPress version and incorporate essential security fixes, safeguarding your website against known vulnerabilities and enhancing overall performance.

Q: What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins?

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins? Failing to update WordPress plugins can expose your site to security vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit. Outdated plugins often contain known security flaws, making them targets for malicious activities such as unauthorized access, data breaches, or website defacement. Additionally, outdated plugins can lead to compatibility issues with the latest WordPress version or other plugins, potentially causing website malfunctions or performance issues. Regular updates are vital for maintaining the security and smooth operation of your site.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070? To check if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070, determine the version of the Email Encoder plugin installed on your WordPress website. If your site is running version 2.1.9 or earlier, it is vulnerable to this security issue. You can find the version information in the WordPress dashboard under the 'Plugins' section. It's essential to upgrade to version 2.1.10 or later, which contains the necessary security patch.

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

What should I do if I suspect my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-7070, immediately update the Email Encoder plugin to the latest version. After updating, conduct a thorough security scan of your site using a reputable security tool to identify and clean up any injected malicious scripts. Additionally, consider changing passwords and reviewing user access levels as precautionary measures. If the situation is complex or continues to persist, seeking professional cybersecurity assistance is advisable.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Email Encoder?

Are there alternative plugins to Email Encoder? Yes, there are alternative plugins to Email Encoder that offer similar functionalities for protecting email addresses and phone numbers on WordPress sites. When considering alternatives, assess the plugin's security history, feature set, user reviews, and compatibility with your current WordPress setup. It’s crucial to select plugins that are actively maintained and regularly updated, as this is a key indicator of their security and reliability.

Q: How frequently should WordPress plugins be updated?

How frequently should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated regularly, ideally as soon as new versions are released. This is particularly important for security updates, which patch vulnerabilities and protect your site from potential exploits. Many WordPress site owners set plugins to update automatically to ensure timely updates. Additionally, regularly checking your WordPress dashboard for update notifications can help keep your site secure and functioning optimally.

Q: What steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

What steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites? Small business owners should prioritize regular updates of WordPress core, plugins, and themes to enhance their site's security. Implementing strong passwords, using two-factor authentication, and limiting login attempts can significantly improve security. Regular backups are crucial for quick recovery in case of a breach or technical issue. Additionally, installing a reputable security plugin can offer ongoing monitoring and protection. For those with limited time or technical expertise, managed WordPress hosting services can be beneficial, as they handle security and maintenance tasks.

By Your WP Guy | January 9, 2024

Plugin Name: Email Encoder – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: email-encoder-bundle
Software Status: Active
Software Author: ironikus
Software Downloads: 996,589
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: January 9, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.1.10
Affected Versions: <= 2.1.9

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Email Encoder <= 2.1.9
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-2023-7070
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: January 9, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The Email Encoder plugin for WordPress, in versions up to 2.1.9, is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through its eeb_mailto shortcode. This vulnerability results from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, enabling authenticated attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious web scripts into pages.

Summary:

The Email Encoder plugin, widely used to protect email addresses and phone numbers on WordPress sites, has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.1.9. This vulnerability, which affects the eeb_mailto shortcode, allows authenticated users with contributor-level or higher access to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. The vulnerability has been addressed in the patched version 2.1.10.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability poses a significant threat, particularly to websites that rely on the Email Encoder plugin to safeguard contact information. Stored XSS vulnerabilities like this one can be exploited to inject malicious scripts into web pages, which can then be executed whenever a user accesses these pages. The potential consequences include unauthorized access, data breaches, and a compromise of the website's integrity and user trust.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are encouraged to update the Email Encoder plugin to the patched version 2.1.10 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly monitor your site for unexpected script executions or changes in content.
Alternate Plugins: While the issue has been resolved, users may consider alternative plugins that offer similar functionality as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Always ensure your WordPress plugins are up-to-date to avoid vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The prompt resolution of the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability by the Email Encoder plugin developers emphasizes the critical role of timely software updates in web security. WordPress site owners, particularly those managing small businesses, should ensure they are using version 2.1.10 or later to secure their sites. This incident is a stark reminder of the importance of routine plugin maintenance and the necessity of staying proactive in the face of emerging cybersecurity threats.

References:

Wordfence Vulnerability Report on Email Encoder

Introduction:

In an era where digital security is paramount, the recent vulnerability discovered in the "Email Encoder – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers" plugin for WordPress, marked as CVE-2023-7070, serves as a crucial reminder for website owners. This vulnerability brings to light the ever-present risks of outdated software and emphasizes the importance of regular updates for online security, especially for small businesses relying on WordPress.

About the Plugin:

Email Encoder, developed by ironikus, is a popular WordPress plugin used to shield email addresses and phone numbers from spam bots. With its 996,589 downloads and 80,000 active installs, the plugin has been a key tool for enhancing privacy and security on numerous WordPress sites.

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Email Encoder <= 2.1.9
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-2023-7070
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: January 9, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The vulnerability in the plugin’s eeb_mailto shortcode, due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allows contributors or higher-level users to inject malicious web scripts.

Summary:

Email Encoder’s vulnerability in versions up to 2.1.9 poses a significant risk, enabling Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks by authenticated users. This vulnerability compromises website integrity and user safety but has been addressed in the updated version 2.1.10.

Detailed Overview:

The Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in Email Encoder can lead to unauthorized actions, data breaches, or manipulation of website content. Such vulnerabilities are particularly concerning for small businesses where a security breach can have far-reaching consequences, including reputational damage and erosion of customer trust.

Remediation Steps:

Immediate Action: Update to version 2.1.10, which patches the vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly monitor for unexpected script executions or content changes.
Alternate Plugins: Consider alternatives with similar functionalities as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all WordPress plugins to protect against vulnerabilities.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

Since August 10, 2015, there have been four previous vulnerabilities identified in the Email Encoder plugin, highlighting the importance of continuous vigilance.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability by the developers of Email Encoder underscores the critical role of timely software updates in maintaining web security. For small business owners, regularly updating WordPress plugins is essential, not only for security but also for the smooth functioning of their website. Automated update features, regular security audits, or managed WordPress hosting services can be effective strategies to maintain website security with minimal time investment. Proactively addressing cybersecurity is key in safeguarding a business’s online presence.

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.

Email Encoder Vulnerability – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-7070 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-7070?

CVE-2023-7070 is a specific identifier for a security vulnerability discovered in the Email Encoder – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers plugin for WordPress. Classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue, it affects versions of the plugin up to and including 2.1.9.

This vulnerability results from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin’s eeb_mailto shortcode. It enables authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages, posing a significant security risk to WordPress websites using this plugin.

How does the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

If your WordPress website uses a vulnerable version of the Email Encoder plugin, attackers can exploit this vulnerability to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This means they can inject harmful scripts into your web pages, which can then be executed by other users visiting your site.

These scripts can compromise website security and user data. Potential impacts include unauthorized data access, website defacement, and theft of sensitive information, posing a significant risk to the website's integrity and the trust of its visitors.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or Stored XSS, is a type of web security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into a website's database. These scripts are then rendered and executed when other users access the compromised web pages.

Stored XSS is particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users and persist over time, leading to ongoing security breaches. It can result in data theft, session hijacking, and other malicious activities, making it essential to address promptly.

Why is updating the Email Encoder plugin important?

Updating the Email Encoder plugin is crucial to protect your website from the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability. The latest version, 2.1.10, includes a patch that fixes this security issue, preventing potential exploits.

Regular updates ensure that plugins maintain compatibility with the latest WordPress version and incorporate essential security fixes, safeguarding your website against known vulnerabilities and enhancing overall performance.

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins?

Failing to update WordPress plugins can expose your site to security vulnerabilities that attackers might exploit. Outdated plugins often contain known security flaws, making them targets for malicious activities such as unauthorized access, data breaches, or website defacement.

Additionally, outdated plugins can lead to compatibility issues with the latest WordPress version or other plugins, potentially causing website malfunctions or performance issues. Regular updates are vital for maintaining the security and smooth operation of your site.

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070?

To check if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070, determine the version of the Email Encoder plugin installed on your WordPress website. If your site is running version 2.1.9 or earlier, it is vulnerable to this security issue.

You can find the version information in the WordPress dashboard under the 'Plugins' section. It's essential to upgrade to version 2.1.10 or later, which contains the necessary security patch.

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

If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2023-7070, immediately update the Email Encoder plugin to the latest version. After updating, conduct a thorough security scan of your site using a reputable security tool to identify and clean up any injected malicious scripts.

Additionally, consider changing passwords and reviewing user access levels as precautionary measures. If the situation is complex or continues to persist, seeking professional cybersecurity assistance is advisable.

Are there alternative plugins to Email Encoder?

Yes, there are alternative plugins to Email Encoder that offer similar functionalities for protecting email addresses and phone numbers on WordPress sites. When considering alternatives, assess the plugin's security history, feature set, user reviews, and compatibility with your current WordPress setup.

It’s crucial to select plugins that are actively maintained and regularly updated, as this is a key indicator of their security and reliability.

How frequently should WordPress plugins be updated?

WordPress plugins should be updated regularly, ideally as soon as new versions are released. This is particularly important for security updates, which patch vulnerabilities and protect your site from potential exploits.

Many WordPress site owners set plugins to update automatically to ensure timely updates. Additionally, regularly checking your WordPress dashboard for update notifications can help keep your site secure and functioning optimally.

What steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

Small business owners should prioritize regular updates of WordPress core, plugins, and themes to enhance their site's security. Implementing strong passwords, using two-factor authentication, and limiting login attempts can significantly improve security.

Regular backups are crucial for quick recovery in case of a breach or technical issue. Additionally, installing a reputable security plugin can offer ongoing monitoring and protection. For those with limited time or technical expertise, managed WordPress hosting services can be beneficial, as they handle security and maintenance tasks.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2023-7070, Digital Security, Email Encoder vulnerability, Plugin Updates, small business cybersecurity, Stored Cross-Site Scripting, Web safety, Website Maintenance, WordPress plugin management., wordpress security

Email Encoder Vulnerability – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-7070 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: Email Encoder – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Staying Secure

Email Encoder Vulnerability – Protect Email Addresses and Phone Numbers – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-7070 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-7070?

What is CVE-2023-7070?

How does the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

How does the CVE-2023-7070 vulnerability affect WordPress websites?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting?

Why is updating the Email Encoder plugin important?

Why is updating the Email Encoder plugin important?

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins?

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2023-7070?

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

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

Are there alternative plugins to Email Encoder?

Are there alternative plugins to Email Encoder?

How frequently should WordPress plugins be updated?

How frequently should WordPress plugins be updated?

What steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

What steps can small business owners take to secure their WordPress sites?

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