Genesis Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Content – CVE-2024-1946 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1946?

What is CVE-2024-1946? CVE-2024-1946 is a security identifier assigned to a specific vulnerability found in the Genesis Blocks plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks by injecting malicious scripts into the block content. The issue arises from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize and escape user inputs, particularly within the 'colibri_post_title' shortcode. This vulnerability poses significant security risks, as it can lead to unauthorized actions, data breaches, and potentially compromise the entire website. It underscores the importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding in web applications to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Q: How does CVE-2024-1946 affect my WordPress site?

How does CVE-2024-1946 affect my WordPress site? If your WordPress site uses an outdated version of the Genesis Blocks plugin (3.1.2 or older), it's vulnerable to the CVE-2024-1946 vulnerability. This flaw can allow attackers with sufficient permissions to inject harmful scripts into your website's content, which are then executed by users who view the compromised content. Such attacks can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web content, or even the distribution of malware to your site's visitors. The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate security risks to include potential damage to your website's reputation and the trust of your users. It's crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to maintain the integrity and security of your WordPress site.

Q: How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946? To determine if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946, you need to check the version of the Genesis Blocks plugin you're currently using. You can do this by logging into your WordPress dashboard, navigating to the 'Plugins' section, and locating the Genesis Blocks plugin to see its version number. If your plugin's version is 3.1.2 or below, your site is at risk, and you should update the plugin immediately. Staying informed about the latest versions of your installed plugins and applying updates promptly is key to protecting your site against known vulnerabilities.

Q: What steps should I take to fix CVE-2024-1946?

What steps should I take to fix CVE-2024-1946? The most effective way to address CVE-2024-1946 is to update the Genesis Blocks plugin to the latest version, which includes a patch for this vulnerability. The patched version, 3.1.3, rectifies the issue by properly sanitizing and escaping user inputs. To update the plugin, go to your WordPress dashboard, find the Genesis Blocks plugin under 'Plugins,' and select the option to update it. Always ensure you have a recent backup of your website before applying updates to avoid data loss in the event of any complications.

Q: Can CVE-2024-1946 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

Can CVE-2024-1946 be exploited by unauthenticated users? CVE-2024-1946 requires that the attacker has at least contributor-level access to the WordPress site to exploit the vulnerability. This means that unauthenticated users or those with subscriber-level access cannot directly exploit this vulnerability without first obtaining elevated permissions. However, it's important to consider the broader security context, as attackers could use other vulnerabilities or social engineering tactics to gain the necessary access. Maintaining strong password policies and limiting user permissions to only what's necessary can help mitigate this risk.

Q: What are Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks?

What are Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks occur when an attacker injects malicious scripts into a web application, which then stores these scripts in its database. When other users access the compromised part of the application, the malicious script executes within their browser, potentially leading to unauthorized actions, data theft, or exposure to malware. Stored XSS attacks are particularly dangerous because they can affect multiple users and do not require the victims to take any specific action, such as clicking on a malicious link, to trigger the attack. Proper input sanitization and output encoding are essential to prevent these types of vulnerabilities.

Q: Will updating the Genesis Blocks plugin affect my site's content?

Will updating the Genesis Blocks plugin affect my site's content? Updating the Genesis Blocks plugin to address CVE-2024-1946 is unlikely to affect your site's content or functionality. Plugin updates are designed to fix vulnerabilities and bugs while maintaining the plugin's existing features and compatibility with your WordPress site. It's always a good practice to create a backup of your website before applying updates. This ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Genesis Blocks that I should consider?

Are there alternative plugins to Genesis Blocks that I should consider? While Genesis Blocks is a popular choice for enhancing WordPress content, several alternative plugins offer similar functionality. Some well-known options include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery Page Builder. Each of these plugins has its own set of features, user interface, and security track record. When considering alternative plugins, it's essential to research their security measures, update frequency, and user reviews. Remember, no plugin is immune to vulnerabilities, so staying informed and promptly applying updates is crucial regardless of the plugin you choose.

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

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves actively monitoring reputable WordPress security resources, subscribing to security newsletters, and following the official update channels of the plugins you use. Websites like the WordPress Vulnerability Database, security blogs like Wordfence and Sucuri, and even the plugin developers' own sites are valuable sources of information. Additionally, using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and alerts can help you stay ahead of potential threats. Regularly reviewing your site's security posture and applying updates promptly are key practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site.

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

What are best practices for ensuring the security of my WordPress site? Ensuring the security of your WordPress site involves a comprehensive approach that includes regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions. Implementing strong passwords, using security plugins to monitor and mitigate threats, setting up a web application firewall (WAF), and conducting regular backups are also crucial. Educating yourself and any users with access to your site about security best practices, such as recognizing phishing attempts and securing personal accounts, further strengthens your site's defenses. Adopting a proactive and informed approach to website security can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and attacks.

By Your WP Guy | April 1, 2024

Plugin Name: Genesis Blocks

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: genesis-blocks
Software Status: Active
Software Author: StudioPress
Software Downloads: 1,333,603
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: April 2, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.1.3
Affected Versions: <= 3.1.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Genesis Blocks <= 3.1.2
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Content
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-1946
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 1, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The Genesis Blocks plugin for WordPress, a tool designed to enhance content creation with custom blocks, has been found vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. This vulnerability is present in all versions up to and including 3.1.2 and results from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping in the block content, enabling attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts.

Summary:

Genesis Blocks, an essential plugin for many WordPress users, harbors a critical security flaw in versions up to 3.1.2, identified as CVE-2024-1946. This flaw facilitates Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks through the plugin's custom block content, posing a significant risk to website integrity and user security. The development team has addressed this issue in the updated version 3.1.3, urging users to implement this crucial patch.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by security researcher Ngô Thiên An, this vulnerability exposes websites to potential unauthorized script executions, which could compromise sensitive user data, deface website content, or conduct phishing attacks. The nature of Stored XSS means the malicious code is embedded directly into the website’s database, triggering each time the affected content is loaded, thereby extending the attack's reach to multiple users. The update to version 3.1.3 is a pivotal step in mitigating this risk and securing WordPress sites using Genesis Blocks.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of Genesis Blocks should promptly update to version 3.1.3 to neutralize this vulnerability and protect their sites from potential exploits.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators are advised to review their sites for unusual content modifications or unauthorized script injections as indicators of compromise.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version offers a secure solution, users may explore alternative content creation plugins as an additional precaution.
Stay Updated: Ensuring all WordPress plugins are consistently updated to their latest versions is vital in maintaining site security and resilience against emerging threats.

Conclusion:

The rapid remediation of CVE-2024-1946 by the Genesis Blocks developers underscores the imperative of timely software updates in the realm of website security. By adopting version 3.1.3 or later, users can fortify their WordPress installations against this and other vulnerabilities, thereby safeguarding their digital assets in an increasingly hostile cyber environment.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today's digital ecosystem, a website serves as more than just a digital footprint; it is a critical facet of your brand's identity and credibility. This reality is starkly illuminated by the recent discovery of a significant vulnerability within the Genesis Blocks plugin, a staple in the WordPress community for enhancing site content. Designated as CVE-2024-1946, this vulnerability not only underscores the latent threats in seemingly benign digital tools but also emphasizes the critical importance of regular website maintenance to safeguard against potential security breaches.

About Genesis Blocks Plugin:

Developed by StudioPress, Genesis Blocks enriches WordPress sites with over 1.3 million downloads and a user base exceeding 100,000. Renowned for its versatility in content creation, the plugin recently came under scrutiny when security researchers Ngô Thiên An and the team at VNPT-VCI uncovered a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.1.2.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-1946: This vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization and output escaping within the plugin's block content, allowing attackers with contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts. These scripts can execute unauthorized commands, access sensitive data, or compromise site integrity.
Impact: The potential ramifications are extensive, ranging from data breaches to compromised user trust and reputational damage.

Mitigating the Vulnerability:

The developers at StudioPress acted swiftly to rectify the issue, releasing patch version 3.1.3. Users of Genesis Blocks are urged to update to this version immediately to protect their sites from potential exploitation.

Historical Context:

Genesis Blocks isn't unfamiliar with vulnerabilities; six have been reported since June 2023. This history highlights the ongoing battle against cyber threats and the importance of vigilance.

Conclusion:

The rapid resolution of CVE-2024-1946 by the Genesis Blocks team serves as a critical reminder of the importance of keeping software up to date. For small business owners, managing a WordPress site amidst numerous other duties, the task of staying abreast of such vulnerabilities may seem daunting. Yet, the consequences of neglecting website security can be far more severe. Leveraging automated updates, utilizing security plugins, and staying informed through reputable cybersecurity news sources can significantly alleviate the burden, ensuring that your website remains secure and trustworthy in an ever-evolving digital landscape. In the realm of cybersecurity, proactive measures and timely updates are not just best practices but essential strategies for safeguarding your digital presence.

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.

Genesis Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Content – CVE-2024-1946 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1946?

CVE-2024-1946 is a security identifier assigned to a specific vulnerability found in the Genesis Blocks plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks by injecting malicious scripts into the block content. The issue arises from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize and escape user inputs, particularly within the 'colibri_post_title' shortcode.

This vulnerability poses significant security risks, as it can lead to unauthorized actions, data breaches, and potentially compromise the entire website. It underscores the importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding in web applications to prevent such vulnerabilities.

How does CVE-2024-1946 affect my WordPress site?

If your WordPress site uses an outdated version of the Genesis Blocks plugin (3.1.2 or older), it's vulnerable to the CVE-2024-1946 vulnerability. This flaw can allow attackers with sufficient permissions to inject harmful scripts into your website's content, which are then executed by users who view the compromised content. Such attacks can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web content, or even the distribution of malware to your site's visitors.

The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond the immediate security risks to include potential damage to your website's reputation and the trust of your users. It's crucial to address this vulnerability promptly to maintain the integrity and security of your WordPress site.

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946?

To determine if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946, you need to check the version of the Genesis Blocks plugin you're currently using. You can do this by logging into your WordPress dashboard, navigating to the 'Plugins' section, and locating the Genesis Blocks plugin to see its version number.

If your plugin's version is 3.1.2 or below, your site is at risk, and you should update the plugin immediately. Staying informed about the latest versions of your installed plugins and applying updates promptly is key to protecting your site against known vulnerabilities.

What steps should I take to fix CVE-2024-1946?

The most effective way to address CVE-2024-1946 is to update the Genesis Blocks plugin to the latest version, which includes a patch for this vulnerability. The patched version, 3.1.3, rectifies the issue by properly sanitizing and escaping user inputs.

To update the plugin, go to your WordPress dashboard, find the Genesis Blocks plugin under 'Plugins,' and select the option to update it. Always ensure you have a recent backup of your website before applying updates to avoid data loss in the event of any complications.

Can CVE-2024-1946 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

CVE-2024-1946 requires that the attacker has at least contributor-level access to the WordPress site to exploit the vulnerability. This means that unauthenticated users or those with subscriber-level access cannot directly exploit this vulnerability without first obtaining elevated permissions.

However, it's important to consider the broader security context, as attackers could use other vulnerabilities or social engineering tactics to gain the necessary access. Maintaining strong password policies and limiting user permissions to only what's necessary can help mitigate this risk.

What are Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks occur when an attacker injects malicious scripts into a web application, which then stores these scripts in its database. When other users access the compromised part of the application, the malicious script executes within their browser, potentially leading to unauthorized actions, data theft, or exposure to malware.

Stored XSS attacks are particularly dangerous because they can affect multiple users and do not require the victims to take any specific action, such as clicking on a malicious link, to trigger the attack. Proper input sanitization and output encoding are essential to prevent these types of vulnerabilities.

Will updating the Genesis Blocks plugin affect my site's content?

Updating the Genesis Blocks plugin to address CVE-2024-1946 is unlikely to affect your site's content or functionality. Plugin updates are designed to fix vulnerabilities and bugs while maintaining the plugin's existing features and compatibility with your WordPress site.

It's always a good practice to create a backup of your website before applying updates. This ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Are there alternative plugins to Genesis Blocks that I should consider?

While Genesis Blocks is a popular choice for enhancing WordPress content, several alternative plugins offer similar functionality. Some well-known options include Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery Page Builder. Each of these plugins has its own set of features, user interface, and security track record.

When considering alternative plugins, it's essential to research their security measures, update frequency, and user reviews. Remember, no plugin is immune to vulnerabilities, so staying informed and promptly applying updates is crucial regardless of the plugin you choose.

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves actively monitoring reputable WordPress security resources, subscribing to security newsletters, and following the official update channels of the plugins you use. Websites like the WordPress Vulnerability Database, security blogs like Wordfence and Sucuri, and even the plugin developers' own sites are valuable sources of information.

Additionally, using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and alerts can help you stay ahead of potential threats. Regularly reviewing your site's security posture and applying updates promptly are key practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site.

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

Ensuring the security of your WordPress site involves a comprehensive approach that includes regularly updating WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions. Implementing strong passwords, using security plugins to monitor and mitigate threats, setting up a web application firewall (WAF), and conducting regular backups are also crucial.

Educating yourself and any users with access to your site about security best practices, such as recognizing phishing attempts and securing personal accounts, further strengthens your site's defenses. Adopting a proactive and informed approach to website security can significantly reduce the risk of vulnerabilities and attacks.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-1946, cybersecurity awareness, digital security for small businesses, Genesis Blocks vulnerability, plugin patching, Plugin Updates, safeguarding WordPress, Stored Cross-Site Scripting, Website Maintenance, wordpress security

Plugin Name: Genesis Blocks

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

About Genesis Blocks Plugin:

Vulnerability Details:

Mitigating the Vulnerability:

Historical Context:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Genesis Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Content – CVE-2024-1946 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1946?

How does CVE-2024-1946 affect my WordPress site?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1946?

What steps should I take to fix CVE-2024-1946?

Can CVE-2024-1946 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

What are Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks?

Will updating the Genesis Blocks plugin affect my site's content?

Are there alternative plugins to Genesis Blocks that I should consider?

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

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

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