Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Author+) PHP Object Injection via error_resetpassword – CVE-2024-3018 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-3018?

What is CVE-2024-3018? CVE-2024-3018 is a security vulnerability identified in the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows for PHP Object Injection through the 'error_resetpassword' attribute in the plugin's "Login | Register Form" widget. To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker needs to have author-level access or higher, making it a significant security concern for websites using this plugin. This vulnerability was made public on March 29, 2024, by researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI. It affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 5.9.13, posing a risk of unauthorized data access, file deletion, or even full site compromise.

Q: How do I know if my website is affected?

How do I know if my website is affected? Your website is potentially affected by CVE-2024-3018 if it is running a version of the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin that is 5.9.13 or older. To check your plugin version, you can navigate to the WordPress dashboard, select 'Plugins', and find the "Essential Addons for Elementor" in the list. If your version is at or below 5.9.13, it's crucial to update immediately. If you're unsure about how to check the plugin version or update it, consider reaching out to a web developer or a cybersecurity professional for assistance. Keeping your plugins updated is a key step in maintaining website security.

Q: What should I do if my website uses an affected version of the plugin?

What should I do if my website uses an affected version of the plugin? If your website uses an affected version of the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 5.9.14 or later. This patched version addresses the vulnerability and secures your site against the specific risks posed by CVE-2024-3018. After updating, it's a good practice to review your website for any signs of unauthorized access or modifications. If you suspect that your website has been compromised, consider conducting a thorough security audit or seeking professional assistance to ensure all vulnerabilities are addressed.

Q: Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely? Yes, CVE-2024-3018 can be exploited remotely by an attacker. However, it requires the attacker to have at least author-level access to the WordPress site. This means that while the vulnerability is serious, the risk is somewhat mitigated by the fact that an attacker needs to have a significant level of access to exploit it. It's important to restrict user permissions on your WordPress site to only those necessary for each user's role. Regularly reviewing and auditing user access can help minimize the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited.

Q: What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018?

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018? The potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018 include unauthorized data access, deletion of files, and even full site compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially inject malicious PHP objects into the site, leading to a range of harmful outcomes. These impacts underscore the importance of maintaining strict security practices, including regular updates and monitoring of user access. For businesses, a compromised website can lead to significant reputational damage and loss of customer trust.

Q: How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future?

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future? Preventing similar vulnerabilities in the future involves a combination of regular software updates, vigilant monitoring of user access, and adherence to security best practices. Ensuring that all plugins and themes on your WordPress site are up to date is crucial, as developers often release patches for known vulnerabilities. Additionally, using reputable security plugins that can scan for vulnerabilities and monitor for suspicious activity can help protect your site. Educating yourself and any other users about the importance of security and safe practices online can also reduce the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited.

Q: What is PHP Object Injection?

What is PHP Object Injection? PHP Object Injection is a type of vulnerability that occurs when user-supplied input is unsafely unserialized by an application. Unserialization can result in an object being created within the application, and if the application does not properly sanitize the input, it can lead to the execution of arbitrary PHP code. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can allow attackers to execute code on the server, leading to unauthorized access and control over the application. It's a sophisticated attack that underscores the need for secure coding practices and rigorous input validation.

Q: Why is it important for an attacker to have author-level access to exploit this vulnerability?

Why is it important for an attacker to have author-level access to exploit this vulnerability? The requirement for author-level access as a prerequisite to exploit CVE-2024-3018 serves as a critical security control, limiting the pool of potential attackers to those who already have a significant level of access to the WordPress site. This means that random external attackers without access cannot directly exploit this vulnerability, reducing the overall risk. However, it also highlights the importance of careful user management and the principle of least privilege, where users are given only the access necessary to perform their roles. Regularly reviewing and auditing user roles and permissions can help mitigate the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited.

Q: What does it mean to deserialize untrusted input?

What does it mean to deserialize untrusted input? Deserializing untrusted input refers to the process of converting a structured format or data stream into an object in a program, based on input that comes from an untrusted source, without adequately validating or sanitizing it first. This can lead to vulnerabilities if the deserialization process can be manipulated to create objects that execute malicious actions within the application. It's a significant security concern because it can allow attackers to influence the logic of the application, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed. Secure coding practices, including thorough input validation and sanitization, are essential to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Q: Are there any tools or services that can help me monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018?

Are there any tools or services that can help me monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018? Yes, there are several tools and services available that can help monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018. Security plugins for WordPress, such as Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security, offer features like vulnerability scanning, malware detection, and real-time monitoring for suspicious activity. Additionally, subscribing to security bulletins and advisories from reputable sources can keep you informed about new vulnerabilities and threats. For businesses that may not have the time or expertise to manage site security, partnering with a managed WordPress hosting provider or a cybersecurity firm can provide peace of mind and professional oversight of security measures.

By Your WP Guy | March 29, 2024

Plugin Name: Essential Addons for Elementor – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: essential-addons-for-elementor-lite
Software Status: Active
Software Author: wpdevteam
Software Downloads: 69,249,566
Active Installs: 2,000,000
Last Updated: April 3, 2024
Patched Versions: 5.9.14
Affected Versions: <= 5.9.13

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Essential Addons for Elementor <= 5.9.13
Title: Authenticated (Author+) PHP Object Injection via error_resetpassword
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-3018
CVSS Score: 8.8
Publicly Published: March 29, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to PHP Object Injection in versions up to and including 5.9.13 via deserialization of untrusted input from the 'error_resetpassword' attribute in the "Login | Register Form" widget. This vulnerability requires the attacker to have author-level access or higher, enabling them to exploit the plugin's deserialization process to inject a malicious PHP Object. This could potentially lead to arbitrary file deletion, sensitive data retrieval, or code execution, especially if a suitable Property-Oriented Programming (POP) chain is accessible through other installed plugins or themes.

Summary:

The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress harbors a significant security flaw in versions up to and including 5.9.13, wherein authenticated users with at least author-level permissions can exploit PHP Object Injection via the 'error_resetpassword' attribute. This vulnerability has been effectively addressed in version 5.9.14, thus reinforcing the need for immediate updates.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, discovered by researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI, resides within the "Login | Register Form" widget of the plugin. The issue stems from the deserialization of untrusted inputs, which can be manipulated by an attacker to achieve PHP Object Injection. The implications of this vulnerability are particularly severe if the WordPress installation contains additional plugins or themes that might provide a viable POP chain, thereby amplifying the potential for harm, including code execution, data theft, or site compromise.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin should promptly update to version 5.9.14 to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should inspect their websites for unusual activities or unauthorized changes, which may indicate exploitation.
Alternate Plugins: Although a patch is available, users may consider exploring alternative Elementor addon plugins that offer similar functionality, particularly if they are concerned about the history of vulnerabilities in this plugin.
Stay Updated: It's crucial to regularly update all WordPress components, including themes and plugins, to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure the security and functionality of your website.

Conclusion:

The swift action taken by the developers of Essential Addons for Elementor to release a patch for this vulnerability underscores the critical nature of maintaining up-to-date software. To safeguard WordPress sites against potential threats, it's imperative that users promptly update their installations to version 5.9.14 or later.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today's digital ecosystem, a website is more than just an online brochure; it's a crucial interface between businesses and their customers. However, this digital frontier is fraught with vulnerabilities, as underscored by the recent discovery of a critical security flaw in the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin. Dubbed CVE-2024-3018, this vulnerability serves as a potent reminder of the constant vigilance required to safeguard digital assets against evolving cyber threats.

Essential Addons for Elementor: A Cornerstone Plugin

"Essential Addons for Elementor" stands as a pivotal tool for over 2 million WordPress sites, providing a suite of widgets and templates to enhance site functionality and design. Developed by wpdevteam, this plugin boasts over 69 million downloads, reflecting its popularity and integral role within the WordPress community.

Unveiling CVE-2024-3018

CVE-2024-3018 reveals a PHP Object Injection vulnerability within the plugin, specifically through the 'error_resetpassword' attribute in the "Login | Register Form" widget. Affecting versions up to 5.9.13, this flaw requires author-level access for exploitation, posing a risk of arbitrary file deletion, sensitive data exposure, or even code execution. This vulnerability, discovered by Ngô Thiên An of VNPT-VCI, was publicly disclosed on March 29, 2024, highlighting the plugin's susceptibility to sophisticated attack vectors.

The Risks and Potential Impacts

The implications of CVE-2024-3018 extend beyond mere technical glitches, threatening the very trust and integrity of affected websites. For small business owners, a compromised website could result in data breaches, loss of customer confidence, and potential financial and reputational damage. The severity is further compounded by the fact that this plugin had encountered 21 vulnerabilities since April 13, 2021, underscoring a pattern of security challenges.

Mitigation and Remediation

In response to CVE-2024-3018, wpdevteam swiftly issued a patch with version 5.9.14, addressing the vulnerability. Users are urged to update their plugin to this latest version immediately. Additionally, website administrators should regularly monitor their sites for unusual activities and consider employing security plugins and services to bolster their defenses.

Navigating the Landscape of Previous Vulnerabilities

The historical context of vulnerabilities within the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin emphasizes the importance of continuous monitoring and updates. Each vulnerability presents a learning opportunity and a reminder of the persistent threats facing digital platforms.

The Imperative of Proactive Security Measures

For small business owners juggling myriad responsibilities, staying abreast of every security update can be daunting. Yet, the digital security of your WordPress site is paramount. Leveraging managed WordPress hosting services, subscribing to security bulletins, and utilizing automated update and monitoring tools can significantly reduce the burden, ensuring that your website remains secure, functional, and aligned with best practices in cybersecurity.

In conclusion, the discovery of CVE-2024-3018 within the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin is a clarion call for vigilance in the digital domain. It underscores the imperative for small business owners to adopt a proactive stance on web security, safeguarding their online presence against the omnipresent threat of cyber vulnerabilities. In the digital age, the security of your website is inextricably linked to the health of your business, making it essential to prioritize, understand, and address these vulnerabilities with the seriousness they warrant.

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.

Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Author+) PHP Object Injection via error_resetpassword – CVE-2024-3018 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-3018?

CVE-2024-3018 is a security vulnerability identified in the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows for PHP Object Injection through the 'error_resetpassword' attribute in the plugin's "Login | Register Form" widget. To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker needs to have author-level access or higher, making it a significant security concern for websites using this plugin.

This vulnerability was made public on March 29, 2024, by researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI. It affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 5.9.13, posing a risk of unauthorized data access, file deletion, or even full site compromise.

How do I know if my website is affected?

Your website is potentially affected by CVE-2024-3018 if it is running a version of the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin that is 5.9.13 or older. To check your plugin version, you can navigate to the WordPress dashboard, select 'Plugins', and find the "Essential Addons for Elementor" in the list. If your version is at or below 5.9.13, it's crucial to update immediately.

If you're unsure about how to check the plugin version or update it, consider reaching out to a web developer or a cybersecurity professional for assistance. Keeping your plugins updated is a key step in maintaining website security.

What should I do if my website uses an affected version of the plugin?

If your website uses an affected version of the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin, the immediate step is to update the plugin to version 5.9.14 or later. This patched version addresses the vulnerability and secures your site against the specific risks posed by CVE-2024-3018.

After updating, it's a good practice to review your website for any signs of unauthorized access or modifications. If you suspect that your website has been compromised, consider conducting a thorough security audit or seeking professional assistance to ensure all vulnerabilities are addressed.

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

Yes, CVE-2024-3018 can be exploited remotely by an attacker. However, it requires the attacker to have at least author-level access to the WordPress site. This means that while the vulnerability is serious, the risk is somewhat mitigated by the fact that an attacker needs to have a significant level of access to exploit it.

It's important to restrict user permissions on your WordPress site to only those necessary for each user's role. Regularly reviewing and auditing user access can help minimize the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited.

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018?

The potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018 include unauthorized data access, deletion of files, and even full site compromise. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could potentially inject malicious PHP objects into the site, leading to a range of harmful outcomes.

These impacts underscore the importance of maintaining strict security practices, including regular updates and monitoring of user access. For businesses, a compromised website can lead to significant reputational damage and loss of customer trust.

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future?

Preventing similar vulnerabilities in the future involves a combination of regular software updates, vigilant monitoring of user access, and adherence to security best practices. Ensuring that all plugins and themes on your WordPress site are up to date is crucial, as developers often release patches for known vulnerabilities.

Additionally, using reputable security plugins that can scan for vulnerabilities and monitor for suspicious activity can help protect your site. Educating yourself and any other users about the importance of security and safe practices online can also reduce the risk of vulnerabilities being exploited.

What is PHP Object Injection?

PHP Object Injection is a type of vulnerability that occurs when user-supplied input is unsafely unserialized by an application. Unserialization can result in an object being created within the application, and if the application does not properly sanitize the input, it can lead to the execution of arbitrary PHP code.

This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can allow attackers to execute code on the server, leading to unauthorized access and control over the application. It's a sophisticated attack that underscores the need for secure coding practices and rigorous input validation.

Why is it important for an attacker to have author-level access to exploit this vulnerability?

The requirement for author-level access as a prerequisite to exploit CVE-2024-3018 serves as a critical security control, limiting the pool of potential attackers to those who already have a significant level of access to the WordPress site. This means that random external attackers without access cannot directly exploit this vulnerability, reducing the overall risk.

However, it also highlights the importance of careful user management and the principle of least privilege, where users are given only the access necessary to perform their roles. Regularly reviewing and auditing user roles and permissions can help mitigate the risk of such vulnerabilities being exploited.

What does it mean to deserialize untrusted input?

Deserializing untrusted input refers to the process of converting a structured format or data stream into an object in a program, based on input that comes from an untrusted source, without adequately validating or sanitizing it first. This can lead to vulnerabilities if the deserialization process can be manipulated to create objects that execute malicious actions within the application.

It's a significant security concern because it can allow attackers to influence the logic of the application, potentially leading to unauthorized actions being performed. Secure coding practices, including thorough input validation and sanitization, are essential to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Are there any tools or services that can help me monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018?

Yes, there are several tools and services available that can help monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018. Security plugins for WordPress, such as Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security, offer features like vulnerability scanning, malware detection, and real-time monitoring for suspicious activity.

Additionally, subscribing to security bulletins and advisories from reputable sources can keep you informed about new vulnerabilities and threats. For businesses that may not have the time or expertise to manage site security, partnering with a managed WordPress hosting provider or a cybersecurity firm can provide peace of mind and professional oversight of security measures.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-3018, Cybersecurity, digital risk management, Essential Addons for Elementor, PHP object injection, Plugin Updates, web security for small businesses, Website Protection, WordPress plugin vulnerability, wordpress security

Plugin Name: Essential Addons for Elementor – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Essential Addons for Elementor: A Cornerstone Plugin

Unveiling CVE-2024-3018

The Risks and Potential Impacts

Mitigation and Remediation

Navigating the Landscape of Previous Vulnerabilities

The Imperative of Proactive Security Measures

Staying Secure

Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Author+) PHP Object Injection via error_resetpassword – CVE-2024-3018 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-3018?

How do I know if my website is affected?

What should I do if my website uses an affected version of the plugin?

Can this vulnerability be exploited remotely?

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-3018?

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future?

What is PHP Object Injection?

Why is it important for an attacker to have author-level access to exploit this vulnerability?

What does it mean to deserialize untrusted input?

Are there any tools or services that can help me monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018?

Are there any tools or services that can help me monitor for vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-3018?

Share this post:

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