Embed PDF, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia, Embed YouTube Videos, Audios, Maps & Embed Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-site Scripting via ’embedpress_doc_custom_color’ – CVE-2024-2688 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report – EmbedPress
Plugin Name: EmbedPress – Embed PDF, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia, Embed YouTube Videos, Audios, Maps & Embed Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: embedpress
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: wpdevteam
- Software Downloads: 2,350,234
- Active Installs: 90,000
- Last Updated: March 22, 2024
- Patched Versions: 3.9.13
- Affected Versions: <= 3.9.12
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: EmbedPress – Embed PDF, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia, Embed YouTube Videos, Audios, Maps & Embed Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor <= 3.9.12
- Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-site Scripting via 'embedpress_doc_custom_color'
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-2688
- CVSS Score: 5.4
- Publicly Published: March 22, 2024
- Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI ST
- Description: The EmbedPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the EmbedPress document widget in all versions up to, and including, 3.9.12 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. Authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, can inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Summary:
The EmbedPress plugin for WordPress, which allows users to embed a variety of content types in their sites, has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.9.12. This vulnerability, arising from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the 'embedpress_doc_custom_color' attribute, enables authenticated users with at least contributor permissions to inject malicious scripts. This issue has been addressed in version 3.9.13 of the plugin.
Detailed Overview:
This vulnerability, discovered by security researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI ST, specifically targets the EmbedPress document widget's 'embedpress_doc_custom_color' attribute. The lack of adequate input sanitization and output escaping mechanisms makes it possible for attackers to embed harmful scripts that are executed when other users view the affected page. The execution of such scripts can compromise the integrity and security of the website. The prompt update to version 3.9.13 has resolved this vulnerability, reinforcing the importance of maintaining up-to-date software.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Users of the EmbedPress plugin are urged to update to version 3.9.13 immediately to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review their websites for any unusual or unauthorized content, particularly in pages where the EmbedPress document widget is used.
- Alternate Plugins: While the issue has been patched, considering alternative embedding plugins might be wise until confidence in this plugin's security is fully restored.
- Stay Updated: Regularly updating all WordPress plugins and themes is crucial in protecting against known vulnerabilities and enhancing website security.
Conclusion: The swift response by the EmbedPress developers in releasing a patch for this vulnerability highlights the critical importance of software maintenance in the digital ecosystem. To secure their WordPress installations against this specific threat, users are advised to ensure that they have updated the EmbedPress plugin to version 3.9.13 or later.
References:
Detailed Report:
In today's digital landscape, where the richness of content defines the vibrancy of a website, plugins like EmbedPress have become indispensable tools for WordPress users. EmbedPress allows for seamless embedding of a wide range of content types, from PDFs and Google Docs to videos and maps, directly into WordPress sites. However, the recent discovery of a vulnerability within this popular plugin, CVE-2024-2688, serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance in website security.
About the Plugin:
EmbedPress – Embed PDF, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia, Embed YouTube Videos, Audios, Maps & Embed Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor, is a widely used WordPress plugin developed by wpdevteam. With over 2.3 million downloads and 90,000 active installs, its importance to the WordPress community is undeniable. The plugin's last update was on March 22, 2024, with the current patched version being 3.9.13.
Vulnerability Details:
The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-2688, is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) issue arising from the 'embedpress_doc_custom_color' attribute in versions up to and including 3.9.12. This flaw enables authenticated users, even those with just contributor-level access, to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts can then execute unauthorized actions, posing significant security risks to both the site and its visitors. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on March 22, 2024, by researcher Ngô Thiên An of VNPT-VCI ST.
Risks and Potential Impacts:
The execution of unauthorized scripts through this vulnerability can lead to a range of adverse outcomes, including data breaches, compromised site integrity, and loss of user trust. In the worst-case scenario, it could even result in full site takeovers by malicious actors.
Remediation Steps:
To address this vulnerability, users of the EmbedPress plugin must update to version 3.9.13 immediately. Additionally, website administrators should conduct thorough reviews of their sites for any unusual or unauthorized content, especially in areas where the EmbedPress document widget is used.
Previous Vulnerabilities:
The EmbedPress plugin has had a history of vulnerabilities, with 15 issues reported since June 26, 2023. This history underscores the critical need for regular monitoring and updating of all website components.
For small business owners who rely on WordPress for their online presence, the challenge of staying abreast of all potential vulnerabilities may seem daunting. However, the recent EmbedPress issue illustrates the non-negotiable need to maintain an up-to-date and secure website. Regular updates, vigilant monitoring for unusual site activity, and a proactive stance on digital security are not just best practices; they are essential measures to protect your business and your customers in the digital domain.
In conclusion, the CVE-2024-2688 vulnerability within the EmbedPress plugin is a stark reminder of the ever-present security risks in the digital landscape. Small business owners, in particular, must recognize the importance of staying informed about such vulnerabilities and taking timely action to safeguard their websites. While the digital world offers immense opportunities for growth and engagement, it also demands a commitment to security and vigilance to navigate safely.
Staying Secure
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