GiveWP Vulnerability– Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1424 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1424?

What is CVE-2024-1424? CVE-2024-1424 is a security vulnerability identifier for a specific flaw found in the GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform. This vulnerability allowed authenticated users with at least contributor-level permissions to inject malicious scripts via the plugin's shortcodes, potentially compromising the website's security and integrity. This flaw was particularly concerning for websites using GiveWP to manage donations and fundraising efforts, as it could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of site content, undermining the trust of donors and site visitors.

Q: How do I know if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

How do I know if my website is affected by this vulnerability? Your website could be affected by CVE-2024-1424 if you are using the GiveWP plugin, and your version is 3.5.1 or earlier. To check your plugin version, navigate to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and find the GiveWP plugin listed among your installed plugins. If your plugin version is within the affected range, it is crucial to update to the patched version immediately to secure your site against potential exploits stemming from this vulnerability.

Q: What are the potential risks of CVE-2024-1424?

What are the potential risks of CVE-2024-1424? The CVE-2024-1424 vulnerability in the GiveWP plugin posed significant security risks, including the potential for malicious actors to inject harmful scripts into web pages. Such scripts could be used to steal sensitive information from site visitors, redirect them to malicious websites, or even gain unauthorized access to the site's administrative functions. These actions could severely damage the reputation of the affected websites, erode donor trust, and potentially lead to financial and data losses, highlighting the importance of addressing this vulnerability promptly.

Q: How can I update the GiveWP plugin to fix this vulnerability?

How can I update the GiveWP plugin to fix this vulnerability? To update the GiveWP plugin and fix the CVE-2024-1424 vulnerability, go to the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, locate the GiveWP plugin, and check if an update is available. If an update is listed, click the 'Update Now' button to initiate the process. It's always recommended to back up your website before applying updates, ensuring you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to GiveWP that I can use for donations and fundraising?

Are there alternative plugins to GiveWP that I can use for donations and fundraising? While GiveWP is a popular choice for managing donations and fundraising efforts on WordPress sites, there are alternative plugins available, such as Charitable, Donorbox, and WP Crowdfunding. Each of these alternatives offers different features and functionalities to support online fundraising and donation collection. When considering an alternative, evaluate the specific needs of your fundraising campaigns, the plugin's ease of use, its integration capabilities with your website, and its security track record to make an informed decision.

Q: What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-1424, immediately update the GiveWP plugin to the latest version to patch the vulnerability. Following the update, conduct a thorough review of your site for any signs of unauthorized access or alterations, including checking user roles, permissions, and any recent changes to site content. Consider employing a security plugin to scan your site for malware and other security threats. If malicious activity is detected, it may be necessary to engage a cybersecurity professional to assist in securing your site and mitigating any damage.

Q: How can I ensure my WordPress plugins are always up to date?

How can I ensure my WordPress plugins are always up to date? Ensuring your WordPress plugins are always up to date can be achieved by regularly checking for updates in the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard. Many hosting providers and WordPress setups offer the option to enable automatic updates for plugins, which can help in maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention. Additionally, subscribing to newsletters or following the social media accounts of plugin developers can keep you informed about new updates and potential security patches, helping you maintain a secure WordPress environment.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages, which are then saved and executed when other users view the affected pages. This can lead to unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, and other malicious activities. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts can be executed automatically without requiring direct interaction from the victim, potentially affecting multiple users and compromising the security and integrity of the affected website.

Q: Can updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability cause issues with my website?

Can updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability cause issues with my website? Updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability is generally safe and is a critical step in maintaining your website's security. However, in some cases, updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or the WordPress core, potentially leading to functional problems or website downtime. To minimize risks, it's advisable to test updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site. This allows you to identify and address any compatibility issues without impacting your live website. Always ensure you have a recent backup before applying updates, so you can quickly restore your site if needed.

Q: How often should I perform security checks on my WordPress site?

How often should I perform security checks on my WordPress site? Regular security checks are crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of your WordPress site. It's advisable to perform a comprehensive security audit at least once a quarter, but more frequent checks are recommended, especially if your site handles sensitive information or transactions. Utilize security plugins that offer continuous monitoring and immediate alerts for any suspicious activity. Staying proactive with security checks helps in early detection of potential vulnerabilities and threats, allowing you to take timely action to protect your site and its users.

By Your WP Guy | March 19, 2024

Plugin Name: GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: give
Software Status: Active
Software Author: webdevmattcrom
Software Downloads: 6,822,276
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: March 19, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.6.0
Affected Versions: <= 3.5.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform <= 3.5.1
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-2024-1424
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 19, 2024
Researcher: Bassem Essam
Description: The GiveWP plugin, a cornerstone for WordPress-based fundraising efforts, exhibits a vulnerability in versions up to 3.5.1, where insufficient sanitization of user-supplied attributes in the plugin's shortcodes allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to embed malicious scripts. These scripts can execute various malicious activities when accessed by unsuspecting users, posing a significant risk to website integrity and user security.

Summary:

The GiveWP plugin, integral for facilitating donations on WordPress sites, was recently found to harbor a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.5.1. This critical flaw, designated as CVE-2024-1424, compromised the security of numerous websites by allowing contributors to inject harmful scripts. Thankfully, this vulnerability was swiftly addressed in the 3.6.0 update, reinforcing the plugin's defense against such exploits.

Detailed Overview:

Identified by cybersecurity researcher Bassem Essam, this vulnerability underscores the intricate challenges within web security, particularly in the realm of charitable transactions. The flaw resided in the way the GiveWP plugin processed shortcode attributes, lacking rigorous checks to prevent malicious code insertion. The prompt issuance of a patched version mitigates the immediate threat but also serves as a reminder of the ever-present need for diligent security practices in plugin development and usage.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: To safeguard your fundraising efforts and website security, updating to GiveWP version 3.6.0 is imperative. This update rectifies the vulnerability, ensuring your donation platform remains secure.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should scrutinize their sites for unexpected shortcode behavior or unauthorized script injections, especially in pages utilizing GiveWP's functionalities.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version of GiveWP addresses this specific concern, exploring other reputable donation plugins can provide additional security layers and feature sets.
Stay Updated: The cornerstone of maintaining a secure WordPress site lies in the consistent updating of all plugins and themes. Regular checks for updates can preempt the exploitation of vulnerabilities, maintaining the sanctity of your digital presence.

Conclusion:

The discovery and subsequent resolution of CVE-2024-1424 within the GiveWP plugin highlights the dynamic landscape of cybersecurity within the WordPress ecosystem. For site owners, particularly those in the non-profit sector relying on donations, the incident reinforces the critical nature of vigilant software maintenance. By ensuring all components of your WordPress site are up-to-date, you safeguard not only your platform but also the trust and security of your supporters.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the interconnected world of the internet, where WordPress stands as a towering platform for countless websites, the security of each plugin becomes a cornerstone for safeguarding digital presences. The GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform, a revered tool in the realm of charitable giving, recently found itself at the center of a security scrutiny with the discovery of CVE-2024-1424. This vulnerability brought to light the ever-present need for vigilance and the importance of keeping website components up to date, especially for small business owners who rely on their websites as pivotal conduits to their audience.

About GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform

GiveWP has carved a niche in the WordPress ecosystem, empowering over 100,000 active installations with the ability to seamlessly accept donations. Crafted by webdevmattcrom, the plugin has seen over 6.8 million downloads, a testament to its utility and reliability in facilitating fundraising efforts. Despite its widespread acclaim, the plugin's integrity was challenged by a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.5.1, casting a spotlight on the need for continuous monitoring and updating of such crucial tools.

Unveiling the Vulnerability: CVE-2024-1424

CVE-2024-1424 exposed a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw within GiveWP, where insufficient sanitization of shortcode attributes allowed contributors or higher-level users to embed harmful scripts. This breach, identified by researcher Bassem Essam, could lead to unauthorized actions being taken on the site, compromising both the website's integrity and the security of its users. The patched version 3.6.0 promptly addressed this critical issue, reinstating the plugin's security.

Potential Risks and Impact

The vulnerability posed significant risks, particularly to non-profit organizations that hinge on the trust and goodwill of their donors. Any exploitation could undermine donor confidence, disrupt fundraising efforts, and even lead to broader security breaches within affected websites. The incident underscores the multifaceted impact of such vulnerabilities, extending beyond technical glitches to potentially eroding the very foundation of trust upon which charitable organizations are built.

Remediation and Proactive Measures

In response to CVE-2024-1424, the immediate update to version 3.6.0 is imperative for all users of the GiveWP plugin. This remediation step is crucial in sealing the exposed security gap. Additionally, website administrators are encouraged to conduct thorough reviews for any signs of compromise and to remain vigilant by regularly updating all site components. The exploration of alternate plugins should also be considered as part of a diversified approach to site functionality and security.

Navigating Past Vulnerabilities

This is not the first challenge faced by GiveWP, with 37 vulnerabilities reported since April 20, 2015. Each incident serves as a learning curve, contributing to the plugin's resilience and the broader WordPress community's understanding of digital security.

The Critical Nature of Security Awareness

For small business owners, the incident highlights the critical importance of maintaining an up-to-date digital infrastructure. The swift resolution of CVE-2024-1424 by GiveWP's developers serves as a reminder of the dynamic nature of web security and the continuous need for vigilance. Staying abreast of updates and potential vulnerabilities is not just a technical necessity but a fundamental aspect of digital stewardship, ensuring the security and reliability of platforms that play crucial roles in fundraising and community building. In the fast-paced digital world, the commitment to security is an ongoing journey, pivotal in fostering trust and ensuring the enduring success of online endeavors.

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.

GiveWP Vulnerability– Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1424 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1424?

CVE-2024-1424 is a security vulnerability identifier for a specific flaw found in the GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform. This vulnerability allowed authenticated users with at least contributor-level permissions to inject malicious scripts via the plugin's shortcodes, potentially compromising the website's security and integrity.

This flaw was particularly concerning for websites using GiveWP to manage donations and fundraising efforts, as it could lead to unauthorized access and manipulation of site content, undermining the trust of donors and site visitors.

How do I know if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

Your website could be affected by CVE-2024-1424 if you are using the GiveWP plugin, and your version is 3.5.1 or earlier. To check your plugin version, navigate to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and find the GiveWP plugin listed among your installed plugins.

If your plugin version is within the affected range, it is crucial to update to the patched version immediately to secure your site against potential exploits stemming from this vulnerability.

What are the potential risks of CVE-2024-1424?

The CVE-2024-1424 vulnerability in the GiveWP plugin posed significant security risks, including the potential for malicious actors to inject harmful scripts into web pages. Such scripts could be used to steal sensitive information from site visitors, redirect them to malicious websites, or even gain unauthorized access to the site's administrative functions.

These actions could severely damage the reputation of the affected websites, erode donor trust, and potentially lead to financial and data losses, highlighting the importance of addressing this vulnerability promptly.

How can I update the GiveWP plugin to fix this vulnerability?

To update the GiveWP plugin and fix the CVE-2024-1424 vulnerability, go to the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, locate the GiveWP plugin, and check if an update is available. If an update is listed, click the 'Update Now' button to initiate the process.

It's always recommended to back up your website before applying updates, ensuring you can restore your site to its previous state if any issues arise during the update process.

Are there alternative plugins to GiveWP that I can use for donations and fundraising?

While GiveWP is a popular choice for managing donations and fundraising efforts on WordPress sites, there are alternative plugins available, such as Charitable, Donorbox, and WP Crowdfunding. Each of these alternatives offers different features and functionalities to support online fundraising and donation collection.

When considering an alternative, evaluate the specific needs of your fundraising campaigns, the plugin's ease of use, its integration capabilities with your website, and its security track record to make an informed decision.

What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

If you suspect that your site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-1424, immediately update the GiveWP plugin to the latest version to patch the vulnerability. Following the update, conduct a thorough review of your site for any signs of unauthorized access or alterations, including checking user roles, permissions, and any recent changes to site content.

Consider employing a security plugin to scan your site for malware and other security threats. If malicious activity is detected, it may be necessary to engage a cybersecurity professional to assist in securing your site and mitigating any damage.

How can I ensure my WordPress plugins are always up to date?

Ensuring your WordPress plugins are always up to date can be achieved by regularly checking for updates in the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard. Many hosting providers and WordPress setups offer the option to enable automatic updates for plugins, which can help in maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention.

Additionally, subscribing to newsletters or following the social media accounts of plugin developers can keep you informed about new updates and potential security patches, helping you maintain a secure WordPress environment.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages, which are then saved and executed when other users view the affected pages. This can lead to unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, and other malicious activities.

Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts can be executed automatically without requiring direct interaction from the victim, potentially affecting multiple users and compromising the security and integrity of the affected website.

Can updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability cause issues with my website?

Updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability is generally safe and is a critical step in maintaining your website's security. However, in some cases, updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or the WordPress core, potentially leading to functional problems or website downtime.

To minimize risks, it's advisable to test updates in a staging environment before applying them to your live site. This allows you to identify and address any compatibility issues without impacting your live website. Always ensure you have a recent backup before applying updates, so you can quickly restore your site if needed.

How often should I perform security checks on my WordPress site?

Regular security checks are crucial for maintaining the integrity and safety of your WordPress site. It's advisable to perform a comprehensive security audit at least once a quarter, but more frequent checks are recommended, especially if your site handles sensitive information or transactions.

Utilize security plugins that offer continuous monitoring and immediate alerts for any suspicious activity. Staying proactive with security checks helps in early detection of potential vulnerabilities and threats, allowing you to take timely action to protect your site and its users.

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Plugin Name: GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

About GiveWP – Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform

Unveiling the Vulnerability: CVE-2024-1424

Potential Risks and Impact

Remediation and Proactive Measures

Navigating Past Vulnerabilities

The Critical Nature of Security Awareness

Staying Secure

GiveWP Vulnerability– Donation Plugin and Fundraising Platform – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1424 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1424?

How do I know if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

What are the potential risks of CVE-2024-1424?

How can I update the GiveWP plugin to fix this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to GiveWP that I can use for donations and fundraising?

What steps should I take if I suspect my site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can I ensure my WordPress plugins are always up to date?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

Can updating a plugin to fix a vulnerability cause issues with my website?

How often should I perform security checks on my WordPress site?

How often should I perform security checks on my WordPress site?

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