Enhanced Media Library Vulnerability – Authenticated (Author+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-2840 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: Enhanced Media Library
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: enhanced-media-library
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: webbistro
- Software Downloads: 2,252,374
- Active Installs: 90,000
- Last Updated: April 25, 2024
- Patched Versions: 2.8.10
- Affected Versions: <= 2.8.9
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: Enhanced Media Library <= 2.8.9
- Title: Authenticated (Author+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-2840
- CVSS Score: 5.4
- Publicly Published: April 15, 2024
- Researcher: Tim Coen
- Description: The Enhanced Media Library plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via media upload functionality in all versions up to, and including, 2.8.9. The vulnerability arises from the plugin's handling of 'dfxp' file uploads, which allows authenticated attackers, with author-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages that execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Summary:
The Enhanced Media Library plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.8.9 that allows author-level users and higher to exploit stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities through media uploads. This security issue has been resolved in the latest patched version, 2.8.10.
Detailed Overview:
This vulnerability was identified by security researcher Tim Coen and involves the manipulation of media upload functionalities, specifically with 'dfxp' files, which lacked proper sanitization and escaping. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers could inject and execute malicious scripts within the media files, which could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, session hijacking, and other malicious activities. The developers have addressed this critical issue in the most recent update, ensuring that such files are now properly checked and sanitized.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: It is imperative that users update to the patched version, 2.8.10, immediately to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Users should examine their media libraries for any unusual or suspicious media files that might have been uploaded and remove any that were not uploaded by trusted sources.
- Alternate Plugins: While the vulnerability has been patched, users might consider using alternate media library management plugins as a precautionary measure until they can ensure their sites are completely secure.
- Stay Updated: Keeping plugins updated to the latest versions is crucial for maintaining security. Users should regularly check for updates and apply them as soon as they become available.
Conclusion:
The prompt resolution of this vulnerability by the Enhanced Media Library plugin developers illustrates the importance of rapid response to security threats. Users of the plugin are urged to update to version 2.8.10 or later to safeguard their WordPress installations effectively. Ongoing vigilance, regular updates, and adherence to security best practices are essential for protecting websites from potential threats.
References:
- Wordfence Vulnerability Report for Enhanced Media Library
- Wordfence Overview of Vulnerabilities in Enhanced Media Library
Detailed Report:
In the digital age, the security of a website is as crucial as its content. A recent discovery within the WordPress ecosystem—a vulnerability in the Enhanced Media Library plugin—serves as a stark reminder of this reality. Identified as CVE-2024-2840, this flaw allowed authenticated users with author-level access and above to execute stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks through seemingly benign media uploads. This type of vulnerability highlights the nuanced threats that can lurk in everyday functionalities of numerous websites.
About the Plugin: Enhanced Media Library
The Enhanced Media Library plugin by webbistro is designed to improve media management on WordPress sites, offering features that extend beyond the default WordPress Media Library capabilities. With over 2 million downloads and 90,000 active installations, this plugin is integral to many users for organizing media content efficiently.
Risks and Potential Impacts
The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of website content, and theft of user sessions. Such actions could severely damage a site's reputation, erode user trust, and entail legal consequences if personal data is compromised.
Remediation Steps
- Immediate Update Required: Users should upgrade immediately to the patched version, 2.8.10, which addresses these security issues.
- Review and Audit: Conduct thorough reviews of media files uploaded to ensure they have not been tampered with and check for any unusual activities in access logs.
- Regular Security Checks: Implement routine checks and security audits to detect and mitigate vulnerabilities promptly.
Historical Vulnerability Context
The Enhanced Media Library has faced several security issues in the past, with 12 vulnerabilities reported since 2022. This history underscores the necessity for ongoing vigilance and regular updates.
Conclusion
The quick response by the developers of Enhanced Media Library in patching CVE-2024-2840 illustrates the critical importance of timely software updates in safeguarding web assets. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, it is imperative to maintain such updates and monitor plugin security actively. Proactive security measures not only prevent potential cyberattacks but also support maintaining business continuity and protecting sensitive customer data.
The digital security landscape is ever-changing, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities can be challenging but essential. Employing automated tools for updates and monitoring, and occasionally consulting cybersecurity professionals, can help streamline these processes, ensuring your business remains secure in the bustling digital marketplace.
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.