Email Subscribers by Icegram Express Vulnerability – Email Marketing, Newsletters, Automation for WordPress & WooCommerce – Unauthenticated SQL Injection – CVE-2024-2876 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is SQL injection?

What is SQL injection? SQL injection is a type of cyber attack that exploits vulnerabilities in a database-driven application’s software. Attackers manipulate standard SQL queries by injecting malicious SQL code, usually through input fields meant for user data. This allows them to execute unauthorized database commands, potentially gaining access to sensitive information, altering database data, or even deleting it.

Q: How does SQL injection affect a WordPress site?

How does SQL injection affect a WordPress site? In WordPress, SQL injection can allow attackers to manipulate the site's database, where all content and user data are stored. This might include creating, reading, updating, or deleting sensitive data. For sites using vulnerable plugins like Email Subscribers by Icegram Express, attackers could exploit SQL injection flaws without needing to authenticate, which significantly increases the risk and potential damage.

Q: What exactly was the vulnerability in the Email Subscribers plugin?

What exactly was the vulnerability in the Email Subscribers plugin? The vulnerability in the Email Subscribers plugin was an unauthenticated SQL injection vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2876. This issue stemmed from insufficient sanitization and preparation of SQL queries within the plugin's 'IG_ES_Subscribers_Query' class. It allowed attackers to manipulate these queries to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially accessing or altering sensitive data.

Q: Why are unauthenticated vulnerabilities considered more severe?

Why are unauthenticated vulnerabilities considered more severe? Unauthenticated vulnerabilities are considered more severe because they can be exploited without any user credentials. This means any attacker with access to the website can exploit the vulnerability, significantly increasing the risk of the vulnerability being exploited. It allows attackers to bypass login mechanisms that protect sensitive user and administrative functions.

Q: What steps can I take to protect my site from SQL injection?

What steps can I take to protect my site from SQL injection? To protect your site from SQL injection, ensure all your plugins and themes are up to date, as updates often include security patches. Use security plugins that specifically guard against SQL injection by filtering out harmful data inputs. Additionally, consider using database management practices that limit user privileges to prevent SQL commands from executing actions that alter or retrieve data without appropriate permissions.

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 your site has been compromised, immediately update the plugin to the patched version to close the security gap. After updating, change all passwords, especially for administrative accounts, and review your site’s user roles to ensure no unauthorized accounts have been created. It’s also recommended to conduct a thorough review of your site's database for any anomalies or unauthorized changes.

Q: Are there any reliable alternatives to the Email Subscribers plugin?

Are there any reliable alternatives to the Email Subscribers plugin? Yes, there are several reputable alternatives to the Email Subscribers plugin for WordPress. Some popular options include MailPoet, Newsletter, and Sendinblue’s WordPress plugin. These alternatives provide similar functionalities with robust security measures and are known for regular updates and active support.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? You should update your WordPress plugins as soon as new updates are available, especially when they contain security patches. Regular updates help protect your site from known vulnerabilities that attackers could exploit. Setting plugins to update automatically can ensure you receive these updates as soon as they’re released.

Q: How can I set my plugins to update automatically in WordPress?

How can I set my plugins to update automatically in WordPress? To set your plugins to update automatically in WordPress, go to the 'Plugins' page in your WordPress admin panel. Here, you’ll see the option to enable auto-updates for each installed plugin. Simply click to enable auto-updates for the plugins you trust. This ensures that your plugins remain up-to-date without manual intervention.

Q: Why is it important to stay informed about new vulnerabilities?

Why is it important to stay informed about new vulnerabilities? Staying informed about new vulnerabilities helps you understand the potential risks to your WordPress site and take proactive measures to protect it. Awareness enables timely application of patches and updates that prevent attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities. Regularly following security blogs, subscribing to plugin update notifications, and participating in WordPress communities can help you stay informed.

By Your WP Guy | April 15, 2024

Plugin Name: Email Subscribers by Icegram Express – Email Marketing, Newsletters, Automation for WordPress & WooCommerce

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: email-subscribers
Software Status: Active
Software Author: icegram
Software Downloads: 10,452,815
Active Installs: 90,000
Last Updated: April 25, 2024
Patched Versions: 5.7.15
Affected Versions: <= 5.7.14

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Icegram Express - Email Subscribers, Newsletters and Marketing Automation Plugin <= 5.7.14
Title: Unauthenticated SQL Injection
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-2876
CVSS Score: 9.8
Publicly Published: April 15, 2024
Researcher: Arkadiusz Hydzik
Description: The plugin is vulnerable to SQL Injection through the 'run' function of the 'IG_ES_Subscribers_Query' class due to insufficient input escaping and inadequate SQL query preparation. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate SQL queries and potentially access or alter sensitive database information.

Summary:

The Email Subscribers by Icegram Express plugin for WordPress has a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 5.7.14 that allows unauthenticated SQL injection. This vulnerability, posing severe security risks, has been patched in version 5.7.15.

Detailed Overview:

This severe SQL Injection vulnerability, identified by cybersecurity researcher Arkadiusz Hydzik, could allow attackers without any authenticated status to execute arbitrary SQL commands against the website's database. Such actions could result in unauthorized access to personal data of subscribers, manipulation of website data, or even complete takeover of the website, depending on the database's permissions. The vulnerability stems from a fundamental security oversight in the way user inputs were handled within the plugin's querying functions.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: All users of the plugin should immediately update to the patched version 5.7.15 to prevent potential exploits.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should check their websites for any unusual database queries or unauthorized data accesses which might have occurred prior to updating.
Alternate Plugins: Users concerned about repeated vulnerabilities in this plugin may consider exploring other reputable email marketing plugins as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Regular updates and monitoring of security advisories for active plugins are essential to maintain a secure WordPress environment.

Conclusion:

The swift patching of this vulnerability by Icegram highlights the necessity of prompt responses to security threats in maintaining user trust and data integrity. Users are encouraged to regularly update their plugins and to stay informed about potential vulnerabilities to protect their WordPress installations effectively. Continuing to educate oneself about the implications of such vulnerabilities and implementing robust security measures can significantly mitigate risks.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the dynamic realm of digital commerce and communication, the security of your WordPress website can be compromised by what seems like minor oversights. A stark reminder of this comes from a recent discovery involving the popular "Email Subscribers by Icegram Express" plugin—a tool utilized by over 90,000 websites for email marketing, newsletters, and automation. This plugin was found to have a severe vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-2876, that allowed unauthenticated SQL injection, posing a high risk to website integrity and user data.

Risks and Potential Impacts

This SQL injection vulnerability could allow attackers to access personal data of subscribers, manipulate website data, or take complete control of the website, depending on the database permissions. The ease of exploiting this vulnerability without needing to authenticate makes it particularly dangerous, posing severe risks to both data security and operational integrity.

Previous Vulnerabilities and Continuous Vigilance

With 21 vulnerabilities reported since August 2015, the history of the Email Subscribers plugin highlights the challenges of maintaining secure software. Each incident underscores the importance of quick responses to security issues and proactive prevention measures.

Conclusion

The quick resolution of CVE-2024-2876 by Icegram underscores the importance of rapid responses to security threats. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, staying vigilant and keeping software updated are not just best practices but essential strategies to protect against sophisticated cyber threats. Regular updates, combined with an active security monitoring routine, are critical in preventing potential disruptions and safeguarding sensitive customer information.

The lesson is clear: in the digital world, the security of your online presence is as crucial as the functionality of your website. Taking the time to regularly review and update your WordPress plugins can save you from potential future crises, ensuring your digital storefront remains secure and trusted by your users.

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 Subscribers by Icegram Express Vulnerability – Email Marketing, Newsletters, Automation for WordPress & WooCommerce – Unauthenticated SQL Injection – CVE-2024-2876 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is SQL injection?

SQL injection is a type of cyber attack that exploits vulnerabilities in a database-driven application’s software. Attackers manipulate standard SQL queries by injecting malicious SQL code, usually through input fields meant for user data. This allows them to execute unauthorized database commands, potentially gaining access to sensitive information, altering database data, or even deleting it.

How does SQL injection affect a WordPress site?

In WordPress, SQL injection can allow attackers to manipulate the site's database, where all content and user data are stored. This might include creating, reading, updating, or deleting sensitive data. For sites using vulnerable plugins like Email Subscribers by Icegram Express, attackers could exploit SQL injection flaws without needing to authenticate, which significantly increases the risk and potential damage.

What exactly was the vulnerability in the Email Subscribers plugin?

The vulnerability in the Email Subscribers plugin was an unauthenticated SQL injection vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-2876. This issue stemmed from insufficient sanitization and preparation of SQL queries within the plugin's 'IG_ES_Subscribers_Query' class. It allowed attackers to manipulate these queries to execute arbitrary SQL commands, potentially accessing or altering sensitive data.

Why are unauthenticated vulnerabilities considered more severe?

Unauthenticated vulnerabilities are considered more severe because they can be exploited without any user credentials. This means any attacker with access to the website can exploit the vulnerability, significantly increasing the risk of the vulnerability being exploited. It allows attackers to bypass login mechanisms that protect sensitive user and administrative functions.

What steps can I take to protect my site from SQL injection?

To protect your site from SQL injection, ensure all your plugins and themes are up to date, as updates often include security patches. Use security plugins that specifically guard against SQL injection by filtering out harmful data inputs. Additionally, consider using database management practices that limit user privileges to prevent SQL commands from executing actions that alter or retrieve data without appropriate permissions.

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

If you suspect your site has been compromised, immediately update the plugin to the patched version to close the security gap. After updating, change all passwords, especially for administrative accounts, and review your site’s user roles to ensure no unauthorized accounts have been created. It’s also recommended to conduct a thorough review of your site's database for any anomalies or unauthorized changes.

Are there any reliable alternatives to the Email Subscribers plugin?

Yes, there are several reputable alternatives to the Email Subscribers plugin for WordPress. Some popular options include MailPoet, Newsletter, and Sendinblue’s WordPress plugin. These alternatives provide similar functionalities with robust security measures and are known for regular updates and active support.

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How can I set my plugins to update automatically in WordPress?

To set your plugins to update automatically in WordPress, go to the 'Plugins' page in your WordPress admin panel. Here, you’ll see the option to enable auto-updates for each installed plugin. Simply click to enable auto-updates for the plugins you trust. This ensures that your plugins remain up-to-date without manual intervention.

Why is it important to stay informed about new vulnerabilities?

Staying informed about new vulnerabilities helps you understand the potential risks to your WordPress site and take proactive measures to protect it. Awareness enables timely application of patches and updates that prevent attackers from exploiting known vulnerabilities. Regularly following security blogs, subscribing to plugin update notifications, and participating in WordPress communities can help you stay informed.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2876, Cybersecurity, email marketing security, Email Subscribers plugin, Icegram Express, Plugin Vulnerability, SQL Injection, Website Security, wordpress security, WordPress Updates