Formidable Forms Vulnerability – Contact Form, Survey, Quiz, Payment, Calculator Form & Custom Form Builder – Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-6842 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2023-6842?

What is CVE-2023-6842? CVE-2023-6842 is a specific identifier given to a security vulnerability found in the Formidable Forms plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability, classified as Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting, was discovered in versions up to and including 6.7 of the plugin. It allows attackers with administrator-level access to inject malicious scripts into web pages. This vulnerability primarily affects multi-site installations and sites where the unfiltered_html capability is disabled. The potential impact of this exploit can be significant, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of website content, and other security breaches that could compromise both the website and its users.

Q: How can CVE-2023-6842 impact my WordPress website?

How can CVE-2023-6842 impact my WordPress website? If your website uses an affected version of the Formidable Forms plugin, CVE-2023-6842 can pose a significant security risk. Attackers with sufficient access can exploit this vulnerability to inject and execute malicious scripts on your site. This can lead to a range of issues, from modified website content to compromised user data. In some cases, it could even affect the performance and reputation of your website, especially if the malicious scripts manipulate the site's functionality or redirect visitors to untrustworthy sites.

Q: What makes CVE-2023-6842 particularly dangerous?

What makes CVE-2023-6842 particularly dangerous? CVE-2023-6842 is particularly dangerous due to its nature as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability. Such vulnerabilities are notorious for allowing attackers to persistently embed malicious scripts into a website, which can then execute on the browsers of unsuspecting users. The fact that this vulnerability can be exploited by users with administrative privileges increases its risk factor, as these users typically have broader access and capabilities within the site. Additionally, if the plugin settings are configured to extend these privileges to lower-level users, the potential for exploitation increases

Q: How do I update my Formidable Forms plugin to address this vulnerability?

How do I update my Formidable Forms plugin to address this vulnerability? Updating your Formidable Forms plugin is a straightforward process. Access your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the ‘Plugins’ section, and locate Formidable Forms. If your version is affected and an update is available, you should see an option to update the plugin there. It's always recommended to back up your website before performing any updates. This precaution ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Q: Are there other security concerns with the Formidable Forms plugin?

Are there other security concerns with the Formidable Forms plugin? The Formidable Forms plugin, like many complex software applications, has had its share of security concerns, with 16 vulnerabilities reported since 2016. These have ranged in severity and type, including both minor bugs and serious security flaws. It's important to regularly check for updates and follow the plugin’s changelog or security blogs to stay informed about new vulnerabilities and patches. Regular updates not only address these vulnerabilities but also improve the overall functionality and stability of the plugin.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your website has been compromised, the first step is to conduct a thorough scan of your site using a reliable security plugin or service. This scan can help identify any malicious scripts or altered content. After identifying any issues, restore your website from a clean backup, if available, and update all your plugins and themes to their latest versions. If the problem persists or you're not confident in handling it yourself, consider seeking assistance from a professional specializing in WordPress security.

Q: Can this vulnerability affect my website’s search engine ranking?

Can this vulnerability affect my website’s search engine ranking? Yes, the exploitation of CVE-2023-6842 can potentially affect your website’s search engine ranking. Search engines penalize sites that contain malicious content, which can happen if this vulnerability is exploited. In addition to direct penalties, any unauthorized changes to your website’s content or structure could negatively impact its SEO. For instance, the injection of spammy links or irrelevant keywords could lead to a drop in search rankings.

Q: What are some best practices for ensuring WordPress plugin security?

What are some best practices for ensuring WordPress plugin security? To ensure the security of your WordPress plugins, it's crucial to regularly update them as soon as new versions are released. These updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities. Additionally, only download plugins from reputable sources like the official WordPress Plugin Directory and regularly review and audit the plugins you have installed for any that are no longer in use or no longer maintained. Using security plugins to monitor your site for suspicious activity is also a wise practice.

Q: How can I stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in my WordPress plugins?

How can I stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in my WordPress plugins? Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities in your WordPress plugins involves a proactive approach. Regularly visit the WordPress Plugin Directory for updates and subscribe to security blogs or newsletters that provide information on recent vulnerabilities and patches. Many security plugins and services also offer notifications about vulnerabilities and updates. Keeping an eye on the changelogs of the plugins you use is another good practice, as it can provide early warnings about potential risks.

Q: What additional measures can small business owners take to protect their WordPress sites?

What additional measures can small business owners take to protect their WordPress sites? For small business owners, protecting a WordPress site involves a combination of regular updates, strong password policies, and the use of reputable security plugins. Consider implementing two-factor authentication for an added layer of security. Since time and resources can be limited for small business owners, utilizing automated update features or working with managed WordPress hosting services can also be beneficial. These services can handle much of the routine maintenance and security monitoring, allowing owners to focus on their business operations.

By Your WP Guy | January 8, 2024

Plugin Name: Formidable Forms – Contact Form, Survey, Quiz, Payment, Calculator Form & Custom Form Builder

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: formidable
Software Status: Active
Software Author: sswells
Software Downloads: 19,370,348
Active Installs: 300,000
Last Updated: January 8, 2024
Patched Versions: 6.7.1
Affected Versions: <= 6.7

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Formidable Forms <= 6.7
Title: Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:H/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-6842
CVSS Score: 4.4
Publicly Published: January 8, 2024
Researcher: drop
Description: The Formidable Forms plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the name field label and description field label parameter in versions up to 6.7. This is due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. Attackers with administrator-level access can inject arbitrary web scripts into pages, which will execute for users accessing an injected page. This primarily affects multi-site installations and sites where unfiltered_html is disabled. Additionally, the Formidable settings allow admins to extend form creation and management permissions to other user types, potentially broadening the vulnerability's impact.

Summary:

The Formidable Forms plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 6.7 that allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level access to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This vulnerability has been patched in version 6.7.1.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, discovered by a researcher known as drop, presents a significant risk, especially in multi-site installations and in environments where the unfiltered_html capability is disabled. By exploiting the name field label and description field label parameters, attackers can inject harmful scripts that are executed when a user accesses the affected page. While the risk is inherently limited to users with administrator access, the plugin's settings could potentially extend dangerous permissions to lower-level users, amplifying the risk of exploitation.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users should update to the patched version 6.7.1 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your site for unexpected script executions or altered form behaviors.
Alternate Plugins: While the issue has been addressed, consider alternate plugins offering similar functionalities if security concerns persist.
Stay Updated: Consistently update all plugins to their latest versions to mitigate vulnerability risks.

Conclusion:

The swift resolution of this vulnerability by the Formidable Forms developers highlights the critical need for ongoing vigilance and timely updates in WordPress plugin management. To ensure the security of WordPress installations, users are advised to upgrade to version 6.7.1 or later.

References:

Introduction:

In the fast-paced world of digital technology, the security of a WordPress site can often be overlooked, especially by small business owners juggling numerous responsibilities. The discovery of the CVE-2023-6842 vulnerability in the widely used Formidable Forms plugin serves as a critical reminder of the importance of constant vigilance in website security. This vulnerability not only highlights the challenges of maintaining a secure online presence but also underscores the need for proactive measures to protect against evolving cyber threats.

About the Plugin:

Formidable Forms – a popular WordPress plugin used by over 300,000 websites – is known for its versatility in creating forms ranging from simple contact forms to complex surveys and quizzes. Developed by sswells, this plugin has been a cornerstone for many businesses, facilitating user interactions and data collection. Despite its popularity and utility, Formidable Forms has encountered its share of security challenges, including 16 vulnerabilities since January 26, 2016.

Details of the Vulnerability:

The recent vulnerability, identified as CVE-2023-6842, is classified as Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting. It affects versions of the plugin up to 6.7 and involves insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the name and description field labels. This flaw allows attackers with administrator-level access to inject harmful scripts, which are executed when users access an injected page. The vulnerability poses a particular risk to multi-site installations and sites where unfiltered_html is disabled.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The implications of this vulnerability are significant. Malicious scripts injected through this exploit can compromise website integrity, potentially leading to data breaches, unauthorized access to sensitive information, or damaging the site's reputation. For a small business, such incidents can have far-reaching consequences, including loss of customer trust and financial repercussions.

Remediation Steps:

The immediate action required is updating the Formidable Forms plugin to the patched version 6.7.1. Users should also review their site for any unexpected script executions or alterations in form behaviors. Considering alternative plugins with similar functionalities might be prudent for those still concerned about security.

History of Previous Vulnerabilities:

With 16 previous vulnerabilities recorded since 2016, the Formidable Forms plugin's history underscores the ever-present nature of security risks in software. Each vulnerability has presented unique challenges, reinforcing the need for continuous monitoring and updating of all website components.

Conclusion:

The prompt response by Formidable Forms' developers to patch CVE-2023-6842 highlights the critical importance of timely software updates in mitigating security risks. For small business owners, regularly updating WordPress plugins might seem daunting amidst their myriad responsibilities. However, neglecting this aspect can leave their websites vulnerable to attacks. Employing automated update features, scheduling regular check-ups, or partnering with a managed service provider can significantly reduce the burden while ensuring the security of their online presence. In the digital world, staying informed and proactive about security vulnerabilities is not just a best practice; it's a necessity for safeguarding your business's digital doorstep.

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.

Formidable Forms Vulnerability – Contact Form, Survey, Quiz, Payment, Calculator Form & Custom Form Builder – Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-6842 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-6842?

CVE-2023-6842 is a specific identifier given to a security vulnerability found in the Formidable Forms plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability, classified as Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting, was discovered in versions up to and including 6.7 of the plugin. It allows attackers with administrator-level access to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

This vulnerability primarily affects multi-site installations and sites where the unfiltered_html capability is disabled. The potential impact of this exploit can be significant, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of website content, and other security breaches that could compromise both the website and its users.

How can CVE-2023-6842 impact my WordPress website?

If your website uses an affected version of the Formidable Forms plugin, CVE-2023-6842 can pose a significant security risk. Attackers with sufficient access can exploit this vulnerability to inject and execute malicious scripts on your site.

This can lead to a range of issues, from modified website content to compromised user data. In some cases, it could even affect the performance and reputation of your website, especially if the malicious scripts manipulate the site's functionality or redirect visitors to untrustworthy sites.

What makes CVE-2023-6842 particularly dangerous?

CVE-2023-6842 is particularly dangerous due to its nature as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability. Such vulnerabilities are notorious for allowing attackers to persistently embed malicious scripts into a website, which can then execute on the browsers of unsuspecting users.

The fact that this vulnerability can be exploited by users with administrative privileges increases its risk factor, as these users typically have broader access and capabilities within the site. Additionally, if the plugin settings are configured to extend these privileges to lower-level users, the potential for exploitation increases

How do I update my Formidable Forms plugin to address this vulnerability?

Updating your Formidable Forms plugin is a straightforward process. Access your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the ‘Plugins’ section, and locate Formidable Forms. If your version is affected and an update is available, you should see an option to update the plugin there.

It's always recommended to back up your website before performing any updates. This precaution ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Are there other security concerns with the Formidable Forms plugin?

The Formidable Forms plugin, like many complex software applications, has had its share of security concerns, with 16 vulnerabilities reported since 2016. These have ranged in severity and type, including both minor bugs and serious security flaws.

It's important to regularly check for updates and follow the plugin’s changelog or security blogs to stay informed about new vulnerabilities and patches. Regular updates not only address these vulnerabilities but also improve the overall functionality and stability of the plugin.

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

If you suspect that your website has been compromised, the first step is to conduct a thorough scan of your site using a reliable security plugin or service. This scan can help identify any malicious scripts or altered content.

After identifying any issues, restore your website from a clean backup, if available, and update all your plugins and themes to their latest versions. If the problem persists or you're not confident in handling it yourself, consider seeking assistance from a professional specializing in WordPress security.

Can this vulnerability affect my website’s search engine ranking?

Yes, the exploitation of CVE-2023-6842 can potentially affect your website’s search engine ranking. Search engines penalize sites that contain malicious content, which can happen if this vulnerability is exploited.

In addition to direct penalties, any unauthorized changes to your website’s content or structure could negatively impact its SEO. For instance, the injection of spammy links or irrelevant keywords could lead to a drop in search rankings.

What are some best practices for ensuring WordPress plugin security?

To ensure the security of your WordPress plugins, it's crucial to regularly update them as soon as new versions are released. These updates often include patches for security vulnerabilities.

Additionally, only download plugins from reputable sources like the official WordPress Plugin Directory and regularly review and audit the plugins you have installed for any that are no longer in use or no longer maintained. Using security plugins to monitor your site for suspicious activity is also a wise practice.

How can I stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in my WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities in your WordPress plugins involves a proactive approach. Regularly visit the WordPress Plugin Directory for updates and subscribe to security blogs or newsletters that provide information on recent vulnerabilities and patches.

Many security plugins and services also offer notifications about vulnerabilities and updates. Keeping an eye on the changelogs of the plugins you use is another good practice, as it can provide early warnings about potential risks.

What additional measures can small business owners take to protect their WordPress sites?

For small business owners, protecting a WordPress site involves a combination of regular updates, strong password policies, and the use of reputable security plugins. Consider implementing two-factor authentication for an added layer of security.

Since time and resources can be limited for small business owners, utilizing automated update features or working with managed WordPress hosting services can also be beneficial. These services can handle much of the routine maintenance and security monitoring, allowing owners to focus on their business operations.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, CVE-2023-6842, cybersecurity for small businesses, digital safety., Formidable Forms vulnerability, Plugin Updates, web security best practices, Website Security, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security

Plugin Name: Formidable Forms – Contact Form, Survey, Quiz, Payment, Calculator Form & Custom Form Builder

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Introduction:

About the Plugin:

Details of the Vulnerability:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

History of Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Formidable Forms Vulnerability – Contact Form, Survey, Quiz, Payment, Calculator Form & Custom Form Builder – Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-6842 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2023-6842?

How can CVE-2023-6842 impact my WordPress website?

What makes CVE-2023-6842 particularly dangerous?

How do I update my Formidable Forms plugin to address this vulnerability?

Are there other security concerns with the Formidable Forms plugin?

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Can this vulnerability affect my website’s search engine ranking?

What are some best practices for ensuring WordPress plugin security?

How can I stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in my WordPress plugins?

What additional measures can small business owners take to protect their WordPress sites?

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