Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Contributor+) Store Cross-Site Scripting via Widget URL Attribute – CVE-2024-3333 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability?

What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a type of security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. In the context of WordPress plugins like Essential Addons for Elementor, such vulnerabilities can arise from improper handling of user inputs, allowing scripts to be saved on the server. When other users access these pages, the malicious scripts execute, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data theft.

Q: How does the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affect my WordPress website?

How does the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affect my WordPress website? The CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affects WordPress websites using the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin versions up to and including 5.9.14. This flaw allows authenticated users, such as those with contributor-level access, to inject harmful scripts into web pages via widget URL attributes. Once these scripts are stored, they can be executed by anyone visiting the affected page, leading to possible security breaches such as data theft or session hijacking.

Q: What versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin are affected by this vulnerability?

What versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin are affected by this vulnerability? The vulnerability impacts all versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin up to and including version 5.9.14. Websites using any of these versions are at risk until they update to the patched version, which is 5.9.15 or later. It is crucial to ensure that your site's plugins are always up to date to avoid such vulnerabilities.

Q: How can I check if my website has been affected by this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website has been affected by this vulnerability? To check if your website has been compromised by the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability, review the URL attributes in the widgets of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for any unusual or suspicious scripts. It's also advisable to look through website logs for any unauthorized access or unusual activity. Regular security scans using updated tools can help detect and mitigate such issues promptly.

Q: What should I do if my website is affected?

What should I do if my website is affected? If you find that your website has been affected, the first step is to update the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin to the latest patched version, which is 5.9.15 or newer. After updating, conduct a thorough audit of your website for any anomalies or residual malicious scripts and remove them. It may also be wise to reset passwords and inform your users, especially if sensitive information could have been compromised.

Q: Are there alternative plugins I can use instead of Essential Addons for Elementor?

Are there alternative plugins I can use instead of Essential Addons for Elementor? Several alternative plugins offer similar functionality to Essential Addons for Elementor, such as Ultimate Addons for Elementor and Elementor Addons & Templates - Sizzify Lite. When choosing an alternative, it is vital to assess the plugin's security history, update frequency, and developer responsiveness. Always ensure that any plugin you consider using is well-supported and receives regular security updates.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Regularly updating plugins can prevent security issues and ensure compatibility with the latest WordPress versions. Setting up automatic updates for plugins can help maintain your site's security without requiring constant manual oversight.

Q: What are the best practices for ensuring the security of my WordPress website?

What are the best practices for ensuring the security of my WordPress website? To ensure the security of your WordPress website, regularly update all themes and plugins to their latest versions. Use strong, unique passwords for all user accounts and implement two-factor authentication where possible. Regularly back up your website, and use security plugins to monitor and protect against potential threats. Educating your users and administrators about security best practices is also crucial.

Q: Can updating a plugin cause issues with my WordPress website?

Can updating a plugin cause issues with my WordPress website? While most plugin updates go smoothly, occasionally, an update can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes on your site. To minimize risks, test updates on a staging version of your site if possible. Always back up your website before applying updates so you can restore the previous state if necessary.

Q: What should I do if I can't update my plugin immediately?

What should I do if I can't update my plugin immediately? If you cannot update a vulnerable plugin immediately, consider disabling it until you can apply the update. If disabling the plugin is not feasible, assess the risk based on the nature of the vulnerability and the potential impact on your site. Implement additional security measures, such as firewalls or more stringent access controls, to help mitigate the risk until you can update.

By Your WP Guy | April 16, 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: 71,347,020
Active Installs: 2,000,000
Last Updated: April 26, 2024
Patched Versions: 5.9.15
Affected Versions: <= 5.9.14

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Essential Addons for Elementor <= 5.9.14
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Store Cross-Site Scripting via Widget URL Attribute
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-3333
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 16, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the URL attributes of widgets in all versions up to, and including, 5.9.14 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 5.9.14 that allows for the injection of arbitrary web scripts through the URL attributes of widgets. This vulnerability has been patched in version 5.9.15.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability discovered by Ngô Thiên An at VNPT-VCI is a stored cross-site scripting issue that affects the URL attribute within the widget settings of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin. Due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, authenticated users with at least contributor-level access can inject malicious scripts. These scripts are then permanently stored and executed whenever a page containing the widget is viewed. The risks associated with this vulnerability include unauthorized script execution, which can lead to further web-based attacks, such as stealing cookies or other session information.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 5.9.15 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review widget settings for unexpected or unfamiliar URLs that may contain JavaScript code.
Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, consider using alternative plugins offering similar functionality as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Regularly check and update all plugins to their latest versions to prevent vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The prompt response by the developers of Essential Addons for Elementor to patch this vulnerability highlights the critical nature of maintaining up-to-date installations. Users are advised to update to version 5.9.15 or later to secure their WordPress installations.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the fast-evolving digital landscape, the security of a website can often hinge on the robustness and timeliness of its components, particularly when it comes to widely-used content management systems like WordPress. A recent vulnerability discovered in the "Essential Addons for Elementor" plugin—a tool employed by over two million websites to enhance their design and functionality—serves as a stark reminder of this critical need for vigilance. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-3333, highlights the ongoing challenges that small business owners face in maintaining a secure online presence amidst their busy schedules.

Vulnerability Details:

The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via the URL attributes of widgets in all versions up to and including 5.9.14. This security flaw was publicly published on April 16, 2024, and has since been patched in version 5.9.15. The vulnerability allows authenticated users, specifically those with contributor-level access or higher, to inject arbitrary web scripts that are executed whenever a user accesses an injected page. This type of vulnerability was identified by researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Stored XSS vulnerabilities such as this can lead to unauthorized script execution, which may result in further web-based attacks, including stealing cookies, session hijacking, and data theft. For a small business, the consequences can be particularly severe, ranging from the loss of sensitive customer data to a damaged reputation and potential legal implications.

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:

Since April 13, 2021, the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin has had 22 documented vulnerabilities. This history underscores the importance of regular updates and active monitoring of security advisories.

Conclusion:

The rapid response by the developers of Essential Addons for Elementor to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. Small business owners, often pressed for time and resources, must prioritize their website's security to protect their assets and customer data. Implementing regular maintenance schedules, subscribing to security newsletters, and using automated tools can significantly reduce the risk and help in managing these critical tasks more efficiently.

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 (Contributor+) Store Cross-Site Scripting via Widget URL Attribute – CVE-2024-3333 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a type of security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. In the context of WordPress plugins like Essential Addons for Elementor, such vulnerabilities can arise from improper handling of user inputs, allowing scripts to be saved on the server. When other users access these pages, the malicious scripts execute, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data theft.

How does the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affect my WordPress website?

The CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affects WordPress websites using the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin versions up to and including 5.9.14. This flaw allows authenticated users, such as those with contributor-level access, to inject harmful scripts into web pages via widget URL attributes. Once these scripts are stored, they can be executed by anyone visiting the affected page, leading to possible security breaches such as data theft or session hijacking.

What versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin are affected by this vulnerability?

The vulnerability impacts all versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin up to and including version 5.9.14. Websites using any of these versions are at risk until they update to the patched version, which is 5.9.15 or later. It is crucial to ensure that your site's plugins are always up to date to avoid such vulnerabilities.

How can I check if my website has been affected by this vulnerability?

To check if your website has been compromised by the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability, review the URL attributes in the widgets of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for any unusual or suspicious scripts. It's also advisable to look through website logs for any unauthorized access or unusual activity. Regular security scans using updated tools can help detect and mitigate such issues promptly.

What should I do if my website is affected?

If you find that your website has been affected, the first step is to update the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin to the latest patched version, which is 5.9.15 or newer. After updating, conduct a thorough audit of your website for any anomalies or residual malicious scripts and remove them. It may also be wise to reset passwords and inform your users, especially if sensitive information could have been compromised.

Are there alternative plugins I can use instead of Essential Addons for Elementor?

Several alternative plugins offer similar functionality to Essential Addons for Elementor, such as Ultimate Addons for Elementor and Elementor Addons & Templates - Sizzify Lite. When choosing an alternative, it is vital to assess the plugin's security history, update frequency, and developer responsiveness. Always ensure that any plugin you consider using is well-supported and receives regular security updates.

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Regularly updating plugins can prevent security issues and ensure compatibility with the latest WordPress versions. Setting up automatic updates for plugins can help maintain your site's security without requiring constant manual oversight.

What are the best practices for ensuring the security of my WordPress website?

To ensure the security of your WordPress website, regularly update all themes and plugins to their latest versions. Use strong, unique passwords for all user accounts and implement two-factor authentication where possible. Regularly back up your website, and use security plugins to monitor and protect against potential threats. Educating your users and administrators about security best practices is also crucial.

Can updating a plugin cause issues with my WordPress website?

While most plugin updates go smoothly, occasionally, an update can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes on your site. To minimize risks, test updates on a staging version of your site if possible. Always back up your website before applying updates so you can restore the previous state if necessary.

What should I do if I can't update my plugin immediately?

If you cannot update a vulnerable plugin immediately, consider disabling it until you can apply the update. If disabling the plugin is not feasible, assess the risk based on the nature of the vulnerability and the potential impact on your site. Implement additional security measures, such as firewalls or more stringent access controls, to help mitigate the risk until you can update.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-3333, Cybersecurity, Elementor widgets, Essential Addons for Elementor, Plugin Updates, Small Business Security, Website Security, wordpress plugins, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

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:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Contributor+) Store Cross-Site Scripting via Widget URL Attribute – CVE-2024-3333 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability?

How does the CVE-2024-3333 vulnerability affect my WordPress website?

What versions of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin are affected by this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website has been affected by this vulnerability?

What should I do if my website is affected?

Are there alternative plugins I can use instead of Essential Addons for Elementor?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

What are the best practices for ensuring the security of my WordPress website?

Can updating a plugin cause issues with my WordPress website?

What should I do if I can't update my plugin immediately?

Share this post:

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