Exclusive Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via InfoBox – CVE-2024-2751 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is XSS and why is it dangerous?

What is XSS and why is it dangerous? Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts can steal information like passwords and cookies, deface websites, or redirect users to malicious sites. XSS exploits the trust a user has for a particular site, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to unauthorized access and data breaches.

Q: How did the vulnerability in Exclusive Addons for Elementor occur?

How did the vulnerability in Exclusive Addons for Elementor occur? The vulnerability in the Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin was due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the plugin’s InfoBox feature. This oversight allowed authenticated users with contributor-level access to inject arbitrary JavaScript code via the 'animating mask style' parameter. Such vulnerabilities highlight the importance of rigorous input validation in software development to prevent malicious data from being processed.

Q: What does 'authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting' mean?

What does 'authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting' mean? Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) means that the XSS attack can be performed by users who are logged into the site, starting from the contributor level upwards. Stored XSS implies that the injected script is saved on the server, such as in a database, and is then presented to users who access the affected page. This type of XSS is particularly harmful as it can persist and affect multiple users over time.

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

How can I check if my site has been affected by this vulnerability? To check if your site has been affected, look for unexpected changes or scripts in the areas where the Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin is active, especially within the InfoBox components. It’s also wise to review logs for any unauthorized actions that could have been initiated by the vulnerability. Additionally, using security plugins that scan for vulnerabilities can help identify if your site is compromised.

Q: What immediate actions should I take if I use this plugin?

What immediate actions should I take if I use this plugin? If you use Exclusive Addons for Elementor, immediately update the plugin to version 2.6.9.3, which contains the patch for this vulnerability. Until the update is applied, consider disabling the plugin if the update can't be performed right away. Regularly back up your website to ensure you can restore it to a state before any potential compromise.

Q: Are there safer alternatives to Exclusive Addons for Elementor?

Are there safer alternatives to Exclusive Addons for Elementor? While Exclusive Addons for Elementor is popular, there are several other Elementor addon plugins with strong security records. Alternatives like Ultimate Addons for Elementor and Essential Addons for Elementor are popular and frequently updated, which might provide similar functionalities with potentially better security assurances. Always research and compare recent security practices and updates of any plugin before switching.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? Regular updates are crucial. Ideally, check for plugin updates at least once a week and apply them as soon as they are released, especially if they address security vulnerabilities. Many plugins offer the option to enable automatic updates, which can be beneficial for critical security patches to ensure your site remains protected against known vulnerabilities.

Q: What are the consequences of not updating plugins?

What are the consequences of not updating plugins? Not updating plugins can leave your website vulnerable to exploits that attackers can use to steal data, corrupt the website, or distribute malware to users. Outdated plugins are the most common vector for attacks on WordPress sites, as they often contain publicly known vulnerabilities that are easy targets for attackers.

Q: How can I improve the overall security of my WordPress site?

How can I improve the overall security of my WordPress site? Improving your WordPress site's security involves several steps: keeping all software up to date, using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, employing a security plugin to monitor and block malicious activity, and implementing a web application firewall. Additionally, regular security audits and applying the principle of least privilege to user roles can significantly enhance your site’s security posture.

Q: Why is it important to understand the technical details of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2751?

Why is it important to understand the technical details of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2751? Understanding the technical details of vulnerabilities helps website administrators gauge the severity of the risk and the specific areas of their site that are affected. This knowledge enables more effective mitigation strategies, tailored security enhancements, and better communication with stakeholders about the risks and the actions taken to secure the site. Awareness of how vulnerabilities can be exploited also guides better practices in user management and plugin selection.

By Your WP Guy | April 15, 2024

Plugin Name: Exclusive Addons for Elementor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: exclusive-addons-for-elementor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: timstrifler
Software Downloads: 814,796
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: April 25, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.6.9.3
Affected Versions: <= 2.6.9.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Exclusive Addons for Elementor <= 2.6.9.2
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via InfoBox
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2751
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 15, 2024
Researcher: ST
Description: The Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the ‘exad_infobox_animating_mask_style’ parameter in all versions up to, and including, 2.6.9.2. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allowing authenticated attackers, with contributor access or higher, to inject arbitrary web scripts that execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.6.9.2 that allows contributors and higher-level users to inject malicious scripts through the InfoBox feature. This vulnerability has been patched in version 2.6.9.3.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability was uncovered by researcher ST and involves the manipulation of the InfoBox's animating mask style parameter. The lack of proper sanitization and escaping of user inputs in this parameter enables the injection of executable JavaScript code into web pages. The potential impact of this vulnerability includes unauthorized access to user data, session takeover, and manipulation of website content, posing a significant risk to website integrity and user privacy. The developers have addressed this critical issue in the latest patch, mitigating the associated risks.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 2.6.9.3 immediately to close this security vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review page content where InfoBox elements are used for signs of tampering or unexpected script executions.
Alternate Plugins: Consider temporarily using alternate Elementor addons that offer similar functionality but are not affected by this vulnerability while assessing your site’s security posture.
Stay Updated: Keep all plugins updated to their latest versions, and subscribe to security bulletins for timely information on potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The rapid response from the developers of Exclusive Addons for Elementor in addressing this XSS vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures in all WordPress plugins. Users are strongly advised to install updates as soon as they are available to protect their sites from potential threats. Regular updates, vigilant monitoring of plugin security, and adherence to best practices in website administration are essential for safeguarding your WordPress installations against attacks.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the sprawling ecosystem of WordPress, plugins enhance functionality but also pose risks if not meticulously managed. A recent example is a vulnerability in the Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin, which has spotlighted the critical need for constant vigilance and timely updates. This particular plugin, integral for enhancing Elementor with unique widgets and functionalities, was compromised up to version 2.6.9.2, affecting over 60,000 websites.

About the Plugin: Exclusive Addons for Elementor

Exclusive Addons for Elementor enriches the Elementor page builder with additional widgets and features, making it a favorite among WordPress users. Authored by timstrifler, this plugin boasts 814,796 downloads and maintains active installations in thousands of websites. The most recent update, as of April 25, 2024, pushed the plugin to version 2.6.9.3 in response to a critical security vulnerability.

Detailed Overview

The flaw arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the InfoBox component of the plugin, where the 'animating mask style' parameter was vulnerable. The potential for malicious script injection meant that any authenticated user with contributor privileges could compromise the website's security. This type of vulnerability underscores the importance of rigorous security checks in plugin development and maintenance. The patched version rectifies this oversight by enhancing security measures to verify and sanitize user inputs more effectively.

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities

Since December 14, 2022, there have been 16 documented vulnerabilities for this plugin alone, signaling ongoing security challenges. Each vulnerability has provided crucial lessons in the importance of proactive security practices.

Conclusion

The rapid and effective response of the Exclusive Addons for Elementor developers in addressing the recent XSS vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date security measures across all WordPress plugins. For small business owners, especially those without dedicated IT teams, understanding the risks associated with outdated plugins and implementing regular updates are essential to safeguarding their online presence. Proactive security practices not only prevent potential cyberattacks but also build trust with users, ensuring the business remains secure and reputable in the digital space.

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.

Exclusive Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via InfoBox – CVE-2024-2751 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is XSS and why is it dangerous?

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. These scripts can steal information like passwords and cookies, deface websites, or redirect users to malicious sites. XSS exploits the trust a user has for a particular site, making it particularly dangerous as it can lead to unauthorized access and data breaches.

How did the vulnerability in Exclusive Addons for Elementor occur?

The vulnerability in the Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin was due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the plugin’s InfoBox feature. This oversight allowed authenticated users with contributor-level access to inject arbitrary JavaScript code via the 'animating mask style' parameter. Such vulnerabilities highlight the importance of rigorous input validation in software development to prevent malicious data from being processed.

What does 'authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting' mean?

Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) means that the XSS attack can be performed by users who are logged into the site, starting from the contributor level upwards. Stored XSS implies that the injected script is saved on the server, such as in a database, and is then presented to users who access the affected page. This type of XSS is particularly harmful as it can persist and affect multiple users over time.

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

To check if your site has been affected, look for unexpected changes or scripts in the areas where the Exclusive Addons for Elementor plugin is active, especially within the InfoBox components. It’s also wise to review logs for any unauthorized actions that could have been initiated by the vulnerability. Additionally, using security plugins that scan for vulnerabilities can help identify if your site is compromised.

What immediate actions should I take if I use this plugin?

If you use Exclusive Addons for Elementor, immediately update the plugin to version 2.6.9.3, which contains the patch for this vulnerability. Until the update is applied, consider disabling the plugin if the update can't be performed right away. Regularly back up your website to ensure you can restore it to a state before any potential compromise.

Are there safer alternatives to Exclusive Addons for Elementor?

While Exclusive Addons for Elementor is popular, there are several other Elementor addon plugins with strong security records. Alternatives like Ultimate Addons for Elementor and Essential Addons for Elementor are popular and frequently updated, which might provide similar functionalities with potentially better security assurances. Always research and compare recent security practices and updates of any plugin before switching.

How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

Regular updates are crucial. Ideally, check for plugin updates at least once a week and apply them as soon as they are released, especially if they address security vulnerabilities. Many plugins offer the option to enable automatic updates, which can be beneficial for critical security patches to ensure your site remains protected against known vulnerabilities.

What are the consequences of not updating plugins?

How can I improve the overall security of my WordPress site?

Improving your WordPress site's security involves several steps: keeping all software up to date, using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, employing a security plugin to monitor and block malicious activity, and implementing a web application firewall. Additionally, regular security audits and applying the principle of least privilege to user roles can significantly enhance your site’s security posture.

Why is it important to understand the technical details of vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2751?

Understanding the technical details of vulnerabilities helps website administrators gauge the severity of the risk and the specific areas of their site that are affected. This knowledge enables more effective mitigation strategies, tailored security enhancements, and better communication with stakeholders about the risks and the actions taken to secure the site. Awareness of how vulnerabilities can be exploited also guides better practices in user management and plugin selection.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2751, Cybersecurity, elementor addons, Exclusive Addons for Elementor, Plugin Updates, Secure WordPress Plugins, Web Security, Website Protection, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability