Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability– Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0954 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin used for?

What is the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin used for? The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin enhances WordPress websites by adding a wide array of templates, widgets, kits, and WooCommerce builders. It's designed to improve the functionality and aesthetics of websites built with the Elementor page builder, making it easier for site owners to create engaging and professional-looking sites without needing extensive coding knowledge. This plugin is particularly popular among small business owners, bloggers, and digital creators who seek to leverage the power of Elementor's drag-and-drop interface while expanding its capabilities with additional elements. The added widgets and templates cater to a variety of needs, from advanced form builders to dynamic content modules.

Q: How does the vulnerability in Essential Addons for Elementor affect my website?

How does the vulnerability in Essential Addons for Elementor affect my website? The vulnerability identified in Essential Addons for Elementor allows attackers with at least contributor-level access to your WordPress site to inject malicious scripts. These scripts can be executed by users visiting the compromised pages, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security incidents. Such vulnerabilities compromise the integrity of your website, putting both your content and your visitors at risk. They can lead to a loss of trust among your audience, damage to your brand's reputation, and potential financial losses if sensitive information is compromised or your site is taken offline.

Q: How can I check if my version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable?

How can I check if my version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable? To determine if your version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable, check the version number installed on your WordPress site. Versions up to and including 5.9.7 are affected by the stored cross-site scripting vulnerability. You can find the version number by navigating to the Plugins section of your WordPress dashboard and locating Essential Addons for Elementor in the list. If your version is 5.9.7 or lower, it's vulnerable and should be updated immediately.

Q: What steps should I take to fix the vulnerability?

What steps should I take to fix the vulnerability? The primary step to remediate the vulnerability is to update Essential Addons for Elementor to the patched version, which is 5.9.8 or later. This can be done directly from your WordPress dashboard by going to the Plugins section, checking for updates, and applying the available update for this plugin. After updating, it's a good practice to review your site for any unusual activity or content that may have been injected while the site was vulnerable. Additionally, ensuring all other themes and plugins are updated can further secure your site against potential threats.

Q: Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site?

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site? While this specific vulnerability is isolated to Essential Addons for Elementor, the interconnected nature of WordPress means that vulnerabilities in one plugin can potentially be leveraged to compromise other aspects of a site. Malicious scripts injected through a vulnerability in one plugin can sometimes gain access to data or functionalities of other plugins and themes. It's crucial to maintain all components of your WordPress site updated to minimize the risk of cross-contamination and to implement broad security measures such as regular backups and security plugins to detect and mitigate threats.

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

What are the signs that my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to your site's content, new unauthorized user accounts, suspicious redirects when visiting your site, and a sudden drop in performance or traffic. You might also receive reports from users about unusual behavior or alerts from security plugins monitoring your site. Monitoring your site regularly for such anomalies is key to early detection of a compromise. If you suspect your site has been affected, conducting a thorough security audit and engaging a cybersecurity professional can help identify and remedy the issue.

Q: Are there alternatives to Essential Addons for Elementor that are more secure?

Are there alternatives to Essential Addons for Elementor that are more secure? While Essential Addons for Elementor is a popular choice for extending Elementor's capabilities, several other plugins offer similar functionalities. Alternatives like Ultimate Addons for Elementor, Elementor Addons & Templates - Sizzify Lite, and Element Pack for Elementor provide a variety of widgets and enhancements. However, no plugin is immune to vulnerabilities, and the security of any software largely depends on the developers' commitment to regular updates and patches. When choosing plugins, consider their update history, user reviews, and the responsiveness of their support teams to security issues.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins and themes?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins and themes? WordPress plugins and themes should be updated as soon as new versions are available, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Regularly checking for updates at least once a week is a good practice, though setting up automatic updates for plugins and themes can ensure you're always running the latest versions. Staying informed about updates and potential vulnerabilities through security blogs, forums, and newsletters can also help you anticipate and prepare for necessary updates.

Q: What is a CVE, and why is it important?

What is a CVE, and why is it important? CVE stands for Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures, a publicly disclosed catalog of security threats and vulnerabilities. Each CVE is assigned a unique identifier, allowing security professionals and software developers to reference a specific vulnerability accurately. Understanding CVEs is important because they provide detailed information about the nature, impacts, and remediation steps for vulnerabilities, helping website owners and IT professionals secure their systems against known threats.

Q: Should small business owners be concerned about website security even if their site doesn't handle sensitive data?

Should small business owners be concerned about website security even if their site doesn't handle sensitive data? Yes, all website owners, including small businesses, should prioritize security, even if their sites don't process sensitive information. Websites can be exploited as a medium to distribute malware, launch phishing campaigns, or serve as a gateway to other parts of a network. Securing a website protects not only the business and its reputation but also its visitors from potential harm. Adopting a proactive approach to security, including regular updates, backups, and the use of security plugins, can help safeguard a site against various cyber threats.

By Your WP Guy | February 1, 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: 66,002,609
Active Installs: 2,000,000
Last Updated: February 12, 2024
Patched Versions: 5.9.8
Affected Versions: <= 5.9.7

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Essential Addons for Elementor – Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders <= 5.9.7
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-0954
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: February 1, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting through the 'data-eael-wrapper-link' wrapper in versions up to and including 5.9.7. Insufficient input sanitization and output escaping allow authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts, which execute when a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 5.9.7 that allows for stored cross-site scripting through specific editing contexts. This vulnerability has been patched in version 5.9.8.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability was identified by Webbernaut and involves insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied protocols within the 'data-eael-wrapper-link' wrapper. Attackers with at least contributor-level permissions can exploit this flaw to inject malicious scripts into pages, posing risks such as unauthorized data access or manipulation. The prompt release of a patched version highlights the importance of maintaining security vigilance and regular updates.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 5.9.8 immediately to mitigate the vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your site for unusual activities or unauthorized changes to web pages.
Alternate Plugins: Consider alternative solutions offering similar functionalities as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all plugins to their latest versions to protect against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift response by the developers to release a patched version of the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin demonstrates the critical role of timely software updates in web security. Users are strongly advised to update to version 5.9.8 or later to safeguard their WordPress installations against potential exploits.

References:

Staying Ahead of the Curve: The Critical Importance of Website Security Updates

In today's digital age, the security of your website is paramount. As small business owners juggle countless responsibilities, it's easy to overlook the importance of regular website maintenance, particularly software updates. However, neglecting this critical task can expose your online presence to significant risks, as highlighted by a recent vulnerability discovered in a popular WordPress plugin, Essential Addons for Elementor.

About the Plugin:

Essential Addons for Elementor enriches WordPress websites with advanced templates, widgets, kits, and WooCommerce builders, boasting over 2 million active installs. Its versatility and ease of use have made it a staple in the toolkit of many website owners.

The Vulnerability at a Glance:

CVE ID: CVE-2024-0954
Type: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Affected Versions: Versions up to and including 5.9.7
Patched Version: 5.9.8
Impact: Allows attackers with contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts.

This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the plugin, particularly through the 'data-eael-wrapper-link' wrapper. It enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts, potentially compromising the website's integrity and the data security of its users.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized data access, manipulation of website content, and even redirection of visitors to malicious sites. Such breaches not only threaten user trust but can also have severe reputational and financial repercussions for businesses.

Remediation Steps:

Immediate Update: Upgrade to the patched version 5.9.8 without delay.
Vigilance: Regularly monitor your site for unusual activities or unauthorized content changes.
Alternatives: Consider similar plugins as temporary stand-ins while ensuring they are secure and regularly updated.

A History of Vulnerabilities:

This isn't the first time Essential Addons for Elementor has faced security challenges; there have been 11 previous vulnerabilities since April 13, 2021. This pattern underscores the importance of constant vigilance and the need for a proactive approach to website security.

Conclusion:

For small business owners, the digital landscape offers immense opportunities but also presents significant risks. The recent vulnerability in Essential Addons for Elementor is a timely reminder of the potential dangers. Staying on top of security updates can seem daunting, especially when time is a scarce resource. However, the cost of inaction can be far greater, potentially jeopardizing your business's online presence and the trust of your customers. Implementing a routine check for updates, using trusted security plugins, and considering professional maintenance services can alleviate the burden and ensure your website remains secure, reliable, and resilient against threats.

Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, prevention is always better than cure. Regular updates are not just routine maintenance; they're a crucial defense mechanism that keeps your digital assets safe from the ever-evolving threats of the online world.

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+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0954 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin used for?

The Essential Addons for Elementor plugin enhances WordPress websites by adding a wide array of templates, widgets, kits, and WooCommerce builders. It's designed to improve the functionality and aesthetics of websites built with the Elementor page builder, making it easier for site owners to create engaging and professional-looking sites without needing extensive coding knowledge.

This plugin is particularly popular among small business owners, bloggers, and digital creators who seek to leverage the power of Elementor's drag-and-drop interface while expanding its capabilities with additional elements. The added widgets and templates cater to a variety of needs, from advanced form builders to dynamic content modules.

How does the vulnerability in Essential Addons for Elementor affect my website?

The vulnerability identified in Essential Addons for Elementor allows attackers with at least contributor-level access to your WordPress site to inject malicious scripts. These scripts can be executed by users visiting the compromised pages, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other security incidents.

Such vulnerabilities compromise the integrity of your website, putting both your content and your visitors at risk. They can lead to a loss of trust among your audience, damage to your brand's reputation, and potential financial losses if sensitive information is compromised or your site is taken offline.

How can I check if my version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable?

To determine if your version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable, check the version number installed on your WordPress site. Versions up to and including 5.9.7 are affected by the stored cross-site scripting vulnerability.

You can find the version number by navigating to the Plugins section of your WordPress dashboard and locating Essential Addons for Elementor in the list. If your version is 5.9.7 or lower, it's vulnerable and should be updated immediately.

What steps should I take to fix the vulnerability?

The primary step to remediate the vulnerability is to update Essential Addons for Elementor to the patched version, which is 5.9.8 or later. This can be done directly from your WordPress dashboard by going to the Plugins section, checking for updates, and applying the available update for this plugin.

After updating, it's a good practice to review your site for any unusual activity or content that may have been injected while the site was vulnerable. Additionally, ensuring all other themes and plugins are updated can further secure your site against potential threats.

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site?

While this specific vulnerability is isolated to Essential Addons for Elementor, the interconnected nature of WordPress means that vulnerabilities in one plugin can potentially be leveraged to compromise other aspects of a site. Malicious scripts injected through a vulnerability in one plugin can sometimes gain access to data or functionalities of other plugins and themes.

It's crucial to maintain all components of your WordPress site updated to minimize the risk of cross-contamination and to implement broad security measures such as regular backups and security plugins to detect and mitigate threats.

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

Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to your site's content, new unauthorized user accounts, suspicious redirects when visiting your site, and a sudden drop in performance or traffic. You might also receive reports from users about unusual behavior or alerts from security plugins monitoring your site.

Monitoring your site regularly for such anomalies is key to early detection of a compromise. If you suspect your site has been affected, conducting a thorough security audit and engaging a cybersecurity professional can help identify and remedy the issue.

Are there alternatives to Essential Addons for Elementor that are more secure?

While Essential Addons for Elementor is a popular choice for extending Elementor's capabilities, several other plugins offer similar functionalities. Alternatives like Ultimate Addons for Elementor, Elementor Addons & Templates - Sizzify Lite, and Element Pack for Elementor provide a variety of widgets and enhancements.

However, no plugin is immune to vulnerabilities, and the security of any software largely depends on the developers' commitment to regular updates and patches. When choosing plugins, consider their update history, user reviews, and the responsiveness of their support teams to security issues.

How often should I update my WordPress plugins and themes?

WordPress plugins and themes should be updated as soon as new versions are available, especially if the updates address security vulnerabilities. Regularly checking for updates at least once a week is a good practice, though setting up automatic updates for plugins and themes can ensure you're always running the latest versions.

Staying informed about updates and potential vulnerabilities through security blogs, forums, and newsletters can also help you anticipate and prepare for necessary updates.

What is a CVE, and why is it important?

CVE stands for Common Vulnerabilities and Exposures, a publicly disclosed catalog of security threats and vulnerabilities. Each CVE is assigned a unique identifier, allowing security professionals and software developers to reference a specific vulnerability accurately.

Understanding CVEs is important because they provide detailed information about the nature, impacts, and remediation steps for vulnerabilities, helping website owners and IT professionals secure their systems against known threats.

Should small business owners be concerned about website security even if their site doesn't handle sensitive data?

Yes, all website owners, including small businesses, should prioritize security, even if their sites don't process sensitive information. Websites can be exploited as a medium to distribute malware, launch phishing campaigns, or serve as a gateway to other parts of a network.

Securing a website protects not only the business and its reputation but also its visitors from potential harm. Adopting a proactive approach to security, including regular updates, backups, and the use of security plugins, can help safeguard a site against various cyber threats.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-0954, Cybersecurity, Digital Security, Essential Addons for Elementor, Plugin Vulnerability, small business website, web security best practices, Website Maintenance, website updates, 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:

Staying Ahead of the Curve: The Critical Importance of Website Security Updates

About the Plugin:

The Vulnerability at a Glance:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

A History of Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Essential Addons for Elementor Vulnerability– Best Elementor Templates, Widgets, Kits & WooCommerce Builders – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0954 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the Essential Addons for Elementor plugin used for?

How does the vulnerability in Essential Addons for Elementor affect my website?

How can I check if my version of Essential Addons for Elementor is vulnerable?

What steps should I take to fix the vulnerability?

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site?

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

Are there alternatives to Essential Addons for Elementor that are more secure?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins and themes?

What is a CVE, and why is it important?

Should small business owners be concerned about website security even if their site doesn't handle sensitive data?

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