EmbedPress Vulnerability– Embed PDF, YouTube, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia Videos, Audios, Maps & Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2024-1349 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the EmbedPress plugin used for in WordPress?

What is the EmbedPress plugin used for in WordPress? EmbedPress is a versatile WordPress plugin that enables users to effortlessly embed a wide range of content types, including PDFs, YouTube videos, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia videos, audio files, maps, and various documents into their WordPress sites. It supports both Gutenberg and Elementor page builders, making it a popular choice for enhancing content without requiring extensive coding knowledge.

Q: How does the EmbedPress vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

How does the EmbedPress vulnerability affect my WordPress site? The vulnerability in EmbedPress versions up to and including 3.9.8 allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject malicious scripts into your WordPress pages via shortcodes. These scripts can be executed by any user visiting the compromised page, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities. It's a significant security risk that can compromise not only your website's integrity but also the safety of your site visitors.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is affected by the EmbedPress vulnerability?

How can I check if my WordPress site is affected by the EmbedPress vulnerability? To determine if your site is affected, check the version of the EmbedPress plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 3.9.8 or lower, it is vulnerable to this security issue. Additionally, reviewing your site for unexpected or suspicious content in posts or pages that use EmbedPress shortcodes can indicate whether your site has been compromised.

Q: What should I do if my WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of EmbedPress?

What should I do if my WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of EmbedPress? If your site is running a vulnerable version of EmbedPress, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 3.9.9 or later, which contains the patch for this vulnerability. Always back up your WordPress site before updating plugins to prevent data loss. Regularly updating all your WordPress components, including the core, themes, and plugins, is crucial for maintaining site security.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to EmbedPress that I can use for embedding content?

Are there alternative plugins to EmbedPress that I can use for embedding content? Yes, there are several alternative plugins available for embedding various types of content into your WordPress site. Popular alternatives include Advanced iFrame, PDF Embedder, and Easy FancyBox. When choosing an alternative, consider the specific types of content you need to embed and ensure that the alternative plugin is well-maintained and regularly updated for security and functionality.

Q: What are the signs that my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What are the signs that my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? Signs of a compromised WordPress site can include unexpected pop-ups, redirects to malicious websites, unauthorized posts or comments, and sudden changes in site appearance or functionality. Monitoring your site for unusual activities, especially in areas where EmbedPress shortcodes are used, is essential for early detection of potential compromises.

Q: How can small business owners manage WordPress security without extensive technical knowledge?

How can small business owners manage WordPress security without extensive technical knowledge? Small business owners can manage WordPress security by implementing a few best practices: regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins; using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts; employing security plugins to monitor and protect the site; and considering managed WordPress hosting services that include security monitoring and updates as part of their offerings. Additionally, setting up automatic updates for plugins and themes can help keep the site secure without constant manual intervention.

Q: What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score provides a standardized way to assess the severity of security vulnerabilities. In this case, the CVSS score of 6.4 for the EmbedPress vulnerability indicates a medium level of severity, suggesting that while the vulnerability poses a significant risk, it's not as critical as those with higher scores. The score helps users prioritize security issues for remediation.

Q: Can updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version cause issues with my existing content?

Can updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version cause issues with my existing content? Updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version should not affect your existing content. Plugin updates are designed to fix vulnerabilities and improve functionality without disrupting existing configurations or content. However, it's always a good practice to back up your WordPress site before applying updates to ensure you can restore your site in case of unexpected issues.

Q: What long-term strategies should WordPress site owners adopt to prevent future vulnerabilities?

What long-term strategies should WordPress site owners adopt to prevent future vulnerabilities? To prevent future vulnerabilities, WordPress site owners should adopt a proactive security posture: regularly update all site components, use strong authentication methods, employ reputable security plugins, conduct periodic security audits, and stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices. Engaging with the WordPress community and utilizing resources like the WordPress Codex and security forums can also provide valuable insights and support for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

By Your WP Guy | February 14, 2024

Plugin Name: EmbedPress

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: embedpress
Software Status: Active
Software Author: wpdevteam
Software Downloads: 2,184,657
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: February 16, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.9.9
Affected Versions: <= 3.9.8

Vulnerability Details:

Name: EmbedPress <= 3.9.8
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-1349
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: February 14, 2024
Researcher: Richard Telleng (stueotue)
Description: The EmbedPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via the plugin's shortcode(s) in versions up to and including 3.9.8. Insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes allow authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages. These scripts execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The EmbedPress plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.9.8 that allows for Stored Cross-Site Scripting via shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 3.9.9.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, discovered by Richard Telleng, lies within the shortcode handling functionality of the EmbedPress plugin. Specifically, it stems from the lack of proper sanitization and escaping of user-supplied input. Attackers with at least contributor-level access to a WordPress site can exploit this flaw to embed malicious scripts in content. When other users, including site visitors, access the compromised content, the embedded scripts execute, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data exposure. The patched version 3.9.9 addresses this critical issue.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the EmbedPress plugin should immediately update to the patched version 3.9.9 to mitigate the vulnerability. Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your site for unusual content or behavior, particularly in posts or pages where shortcodes are used, as these may indicate compromise. Alternate Plugins: While the vulnerability has been patched, users may consider exploring other reputable plugins offering similar functionality, especially if they have specific security concerns or requirements. Stay Updated: Regularly update all WordPress core software, themes, and plugins to their latest versions to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The rapid response of the EmbedPress development team in releasing a patch underscores the critical nature of maintaining updated software. To safeguard WordPress installations against potential threats, users should ensure their sites run version 3.9.9 or later of the EmbedPress plugin.

References:

In today's digital age, maintaining the security of your website is not just a recommendation; it's a necessity. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability in the popular WordPress plugin, EmbedPress, serves as a stark reminder of the risks lurking in the digital shadows. EmbedPress, a versatile plugin allowing users to embed PDFs, YouTube videos, Google Docs, and more into their WordPress sites, has been a go-to tool for over 80,000 websites. However, the revelation of an authenticated stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.9.8 has raised alarms across the WordPress community.

Plugin Overview:

EmbedPress enriches WordPress sites by enabling users to seamlessly integrate various media types into their content. Developed by wpdevteam, this plugin has seen over 2 million downloads, highlighting its popularity and widespread use. The issue was rectified in version 3.9.9, but the vulnerability's presence in all previous versions up to 3.9.8 poses a significant risk.

Vulnerability Insights:

The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-1349, was uncovered by researcher Richard Telleng. It specifically targets the plugin's shortcode handling, where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping allow attackers with contributor-level access to inject harmful scripts. These scripts can execute unwanted actions or expose sensitive data when accessed by unsuspecting users, posing a grave threat to website integrity and user security.

Risks and Impacts:

The primary risk of this XSS vulnerability lies in its potential to compromise site integrity and user safety. Malicious scripts can lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation of site content, and even redirection to harmful sites, undermining the trust and reliability of affected websites.

Remediation Strategies:

Immediate action is required to mitigate this vulnerability. Users must update to the patched version 3.9.9 without delay. Additionally, monitoring for unusual site behavior and content is advised to identify potential compromises. While the patch addresses this specific issue, exploring alternative plugins and maintaining a rigorous update routine for all site components can further bolster security.

Historical Context:

This is not the first time EmbedPress has faced security challenges; there have been 10 vulnerabilities reported since June 2023. This pattern underscores the critical nature of ongoing vigilance and the importance of swift developer responses to emerging threats.

Conclusion:

For small business owners juggling numerous responsibilities, staying ahead of such vulnerabilities might seem daunting. Yet, the security of your digital presence is integral to your business's credibility and success. Leveraging managed WordPress hosting services, employing security plugins, and subscribing to vulnerability alert services can significantly reduce the burden of constant vigilance. Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Ensuring your WordPress site, along with its themes and plugins, are up-to-date is not just about accessing the latest features; it's a critical defense strategy against the ever-evolving landscape of 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.

EmbedPress Vulnerability– Embed PDF, YouTube, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia Videos, Audios, Maps & Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2024-1349 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the EmbedPress plugin used for in WordPress?

EmbedPress is a versatile WordPress plugin that enables users to effortlessly embed a wide range of content types, including PDFs, YouTube videos, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia videos, audio files, maps, and various documents into their WordPress sites. It supports both Gutenberg and Elementor page builders, making it a popular choice for enhancing content without requiring extensive coding knowledge.

How does the EmbedPress vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

The vulnerability in EmbedPress versions up to and including 3.9.8 allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject malicious scripts into your WordPress pages via shortcodes. These scripts can be executed by any user visiting the compromised page, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities. It's a significant security risk that can compromise not only your website's integrity but also the safety of your site visitors.

How can I check if my WordPress site is affected by the EmbedPress vulnerability?

To determine if your site is affected, check the version of the EmbedPress plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 3.9.8 or lower, it is vulnerable to this security issue. Additionally, reviewing your site for unexpected or suspicious content in posts or pages that use EmbedPress shortcodes can indicate whether your site has been compromised.

What should I do if my WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of EmbedPress?

If your site is running a vulnerable version of EmbedPress, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 3.9.9 or later, which contains the patch for this vulnerability. Always back up your WordPress site before updating plugins to prevent data loss. Regularly updating all your WordPress components, including the core, themes, and plugins, is crucial for maintaining site security.

Are there alternative plugins to EmbedPress that I can use for embedding content?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins available for embedding various types of content into your WordPress site. Popular alternatives include Advanced iFrame, PDF Embedder, and Easy FancyBox. When choosing an alternative, consider the specific types of content you need to embed and ensure that the alternative plugin is well-maintained and regularly updated for security and functionality.

What are the signs that my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Signs of a compromised WordPress site can include unexpected pop-ups, redirects to malicious websites, unauthorized posts or comments, and sudden changes in site appearance or functionality. Monitoring your site for unusual activities, especially in areas where EmbedPress shortcodes are used, is essential for early detection of potential compromises.

How can small business owners manage WordPress security without extensive technical knowledge?

Small business owners can manage WordPress security by implementing a few best practices: regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins; using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts; employing security plugins to monitor and protect the site; and considering managed WordPress hosting services that include security monitoring and updates as part of their offerings. Additionally, setting up automatic updates for plugins and themes can help keep the site secure without constant manual intervention.

What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score provides a standardized way to assess the severity of security vulnerabilities. In this case, the CVSS score of 6.4 for the EmbedPress vulnerability indicates a medium level of severity, suggesting that while the vulnerability poses a significant risk, it's not as critical as those with higher scores. The score helps users prioritize security issues for remediation.

Can updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version cause issues with my existing content?

Updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version should not affect your existing content. Plugin updates are designed to fix vulnerabilities and improve functionality without disrupting existing configurations or content. However, it's always a good practice to back up your WordPress site before applying updates to ensure you can restore your site in case of unexpected issues.

What long-term strategies should WordPress site owners adopt to prevent future vulnerabilities?

To prevent future vulnerabilities, WordPress site owners should adopt a proactive security posture: regularly update all site components, use strong authentication methods, employ reputable security plugins, conduct periodic security audits, and stay informed about the latest security threats and best practices. Engaging with the WordPress community and utilizing resources like the WordPress Codex and security forums can also provide valuable insights and support for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

Share this post:

X (Twitter) Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Pocket SMS

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-1349, cybersecurity for small businesses, Digital Security, EmbedPress vulnerability, Plugin Updates, Secure WordPress Plugins, Website Security, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: EmbedPress

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Insights:

Risks and Impacts:

Remediation Strategies:

Historical Context:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

EmbedPress Vulnerability– Embed PDF, YouTube, Google Docs, Vimeo, Wistia Videos, Audios, Maps & Any Documents in Gutenberg & Elementor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Shortcode – CVE-2024-1349 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the EmbedPress plugin used for in WordPress?

How does the EmbedPress vulnerability affect my WordPress site?

How can I check if my WordPress site is affected by the EmbedPress vulnerability?

What should I do if my WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of EmbedPress?

Are there alternative plugins to EmbedPress that I can use for embedding content?

What are the signs that my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can small business owners manage WordPress security without extensive technical knowledge?

What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

Can updating the EmbedPress plugin to the patched version cause issues with my existing content?

What long-term strategies should WordPress site owners adopt to prevent future vulnerabilities?

What long-term strategies should WordPress site owners adopt to prevent future vulnerabilities?

Share this post:

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Recent Blog Posts

LiteSpeed Cache Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Sensitive Information Exposure via Log Files – CVE-2024-44000 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Multiple Parameters – CVE-2024-4401, CVE-2024-7122 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

The Post Grid – Shortcode, Gutenberg Blocks and Elementor Addon for Post Grid Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Information Disclosure – CVE-2024-7418 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Additional Resources

About Your WP Guy