Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks Vulnerability – Page Builder Features – Authenticated(Contributor+) Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) – CVE-2023-6964 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is an SSRF vulnerability?

What is an SSRF vulnerability? An SSRF (Server-Side Request Forgery) vulnerability allows attackers to send requests from the server to other systems, which can lead to unauthorized actions or data access. This type of vulnerability exploits the trust that a server has in the user, allowing the user to trick the server into making requests that benefit the attacker. In the case of the Gutenberg Blocks plugin, authenticated users could potentially interact with internal services or manipulate sensitive information.

Q: How do I know if my website uses the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin?

How do I know if my website uses the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin? To check if your WordPress site uses this plugin, log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here you will find a list of all the plugins installed on your site. Look for "Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features" in the list. If it appears, check the version to ensure it is updated past the vulnerable versions.

Q: What should I do if my plugin is affected?

What should I do if my plugin is affected? If your version of the Gutenberg Blocks plugin is at or below 3.1.26, you should update it immediately to version 3.2.12, which contains the necessary security patch. After updating, it's wise to review your site’s access logs for any unusual activity that might indicate the vulnerability was exploited. If you suspect a breach, consider consulting a cybersecurity professional to assess potential damage and further secure your site.

Q: How can I set my WordPress site to automatically update plugins?

How can I set my WordPress site to automatically update plugins? WordPress allows users to enable automatic updates for plugins to ensure they always run the latest versions. To enable this, go to the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, click on the plugin you want to auto-update, and select the option to enable automatic updates. This setting helps maintain security by updating plugins as soon as new versions are released, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities.

Q: What are the risks of not updating the Gutenberg Blocks plugin?

What are the risks of not updating the Gutenberg Blocks plugin? Failing to update the Gutenberg Blocks plugin could leave your site vulnerable to attacks that exploit the SSRF vulnerability. This could result in unauthorized information access, manipulation of your site’s data, or even downtime. Keeping plugins updated is crucial to safeguarding your website from such threats and ensuring the security and privacy of your users.

Q: Are there alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that I can consider?

Are there alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that I can consider? Yes, there are several alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that offer similar functionality for building and customizing pages in WordPress. Plugins like Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Divi Builder are popular among users seeking robust page-building features. Each has its own set of features and security protocols, so review their details and user ratings to choose one that suits your needs.

Q: How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins? It is advisable to check for plugin updates at least once a week. Many hosting providers offer management tools that notify you of available updates. Alternatively, setting plugins to update automatically can ensure you’re always running the most secure and stable versions without needing to check manually.

Q: What are CVSS scores, and why is it significant that the SSRF vulnerability had a score of 8.5?

What are CVSS scores, and why is it significant that the SSRF vulnerability had a score of 8.5? CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) provides a way to capture the principal characteristics of a security vulnerability and produce a numerical score reflecting its severity. The score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher values representing greater risk. The SSRF vulnerability in the Gutenberg Blocks plugin had a score of 8.5, indicating it is a high-severity issue that could lead to significant impact on affected websites, emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate risks.

Q: Can updating the plugin disrupt my website?

Can updating the plugin disrupt my website? While updates are designed to be seamless, occasionally, they can cause issues with site functionality, especially if the site uses custom code or integrations that depend on the older versions of plugins. It’s a good practice to backup your website before applying updates, allowing you to restore the previous version if something goes wrong. Testing updates on a staging site first can also help you avoid disrupting your live site.

Q: What steps can I take to improve overall security on my WordPress site?

What steps can I take to improve overall security on my WordPress site? Beyond keeping plugins and themes updated, consider implementing a website firewall, using strong passwords, and limiting login attempts to protect against brute force attacks. Regularly scan your website for vulnerabilities and malware, and ensure your hosting environment is secure. Educating yourself and your website administrators about basic security best practices is also crucial to maintaining a secure WordPress site.

By Your WP Guy | April 9, 2024

Plugin Name: Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: kadence-blocks
Software Status: Active
Software Author: britner
Software Downloads: 18,430,842
Active Installs: 400,000
Last Updated: April 16, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.2.12
Affected Versions: <= 3.1.26

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features <= 3.1.26
Title: Authenticated(Contributor+) Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF)
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2023-6964
CVSS Score: 8.5
Publicly Published: April 9, 2024
Researcher: Lucio Sá
Description: The Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Server-Side Request Forgery in all versions up to, and including, 3.1.26 via the 'kadence_import_get_new_connection_data' AJAX action. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to make web requests to arbitrary locations originating from the web application and can be used to query and modify information from internal services.

Summary:

The Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 3.1.26 that allows authenticated users with at least contributor rights to exploit Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF). This vulnerability has been patched in version 3.2.12.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin allows attackers who have contributor-level access to send web requests to internal and external locations, which could be used to access or modify information unlawfully. The issue was identified by researcher Lucio Sá and concerns the 'kadence_import_get_new_connection_data' AJAX action. The risk involves the possibility of exposing sensitive data or affecting web application operations. Remediation was swiftly implemented by the developers in the patch release of version 3.2.12.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are encouraged to update to the patched version 3.2.12 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor access logs for unusual web requests that could indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, users might still consider plugins that offer similar functionality as a precaution.
Stay Updated: Always ensure that your plugins are updated to the latest versions to avoid vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The prompt response from the developers of the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. Users are advised to ensure that they are running version 3.2.12 or later to secure their WordPress installations.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the fast-paced world of technology, one small oversight can open the door to significant security risks. The recent discovery of a critical vulnerability in the widely-used WordPress plugin, "Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features," serves as a stark reminder of this fact. Known as CVE-2023-6964, this security flaw highlights the ongoing challenges website owners face in maintaining the integrity and safety of their digital platforms.

About the Plugin:

"Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features" is a popular plugin designed to enhance the functionality of WordPress sites with advanced page builder features. As of April 2024, the plugin boasts over 400,000 active installs and has been downloaded more than 18 million times. Despite its popularity and utility, the plugin became a target for exploitation due to a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability affecting all versions up to and including 3.1.26.

Details of the Vulnerability:

This SSRF vulnerability allows authenticated users, specifically those with contributor-level access or higher, to send unauthorized web requests from the server. Identified by researcher Lucio Sá and publicly disclosed on April 9, 2024, this vulnerability could enable attackers to access or alter internal services and sensitive data, which could have devastating consequences for business operations and user privacy. The issue exists in the plugin's 'kadence_import_get_new_connection_data' AJAX action and has a high severity rating with a CVSS score of 8.5.

Previous Incidents:

It's worth noting that this isn't the first time vulnerabilities have been reported in this plugin. Since August 2023, there have been seven other reported issues, underscoring the necessity for continuous monitoring and updates.

Remediation Steps:

Upon discovery, the plugin developers acted swiftly to address the issue, releasing a patched version (3.2.12) that resolves the vulnerability. Users of the plugin are urged to update to this latest version immediately to protect their sites. Additionally, it is advisable to regularly check access logs for any unusual activity that could suggest an exploitation of this flaw.

Advice for Small Business Owners:

For small business owners, the reality of managing a website can be daunting, especially with limited time and resources to dedicate to cybersecurity. However, the security of your website should never be sidelined. Regularly updating your plugins, themes, and core WordPress installation is crucial. Consider setting up automatic updates where possible and subscribing to security blogs or services that can alert you to new vulnerabilities in plugins you use.

Conclusion:

The proactive response from the developers of the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin demonstrates the critical importance of timely updates in mitigating security risks. As a business owner, keeping your website's software up to date is one of the most effective ways to protect against vulnerabilities. Remember, cybersecurity is not just about protecting data—it's about safeguarding your business reputation and the trust of your customers.

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.

Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks Vulnerability – Page Builder Features – Authenticated(Contributor+) Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) – CVE-2023-6964 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is an SSRF vulnerability?

An SSRF (Server-Side Request Forgery) vulnerability allows attackers to send requests from the server to other systems, which can lead to unauthorized actions or data access. This type of vulnerability exploits the trust that a server has in the user, allowing the user to trick the server into making requests that benefit the attacker. In the case of the Gutenberg Blocks plugin, authenticated users could potentially interact with internal services or manipulate sensitive information.

How do I know if my website uses the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin?

To check if your WordPress site uses this plugin, log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here you will find a list of all the plugins installed on your site. Look for "Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features" in the list. If it appears, check the version to ensure it is updated past the vulnerable versions.

What should I do if my plugin is affected?

If your version of the Gutenberg Blocks plugin is at or below 3.1.26, you should update it immediately to version 3.2.12, which contains the necessary security patch. After updating, it's wise to review your site’s access logs for any unusual activity that might indicate the vulnerability was exploited. If you suspect a breach, consider consulting a cybersecurity professional to assess potential damage and further secure your site.

How can I set my WordPress site to automatically update plugins?

WordPress allows users to enable automatic updates for plugins to ensure they always run the latest versions. To enable this, go to the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, click on the plugin you want to auto-update, and select the option to enable automatic updates. This setting helps maintain security by updating plugins as soon as new versions are released, reducing the risk of vulnerabilities.

What are the risks of not updating the Gutenberg Blocks plugin?

Failing to update the Gutenberg Blocks plugin could leave your site vulnerable to attacks that exploit the SSRF vulnerability. This could result in unauthorized information access, manipulation of your site’s data, or even downtime. Keeping plugins updated is crucial to safeguarding your website from such threats and ensuring the security and privacy of your users.

Are there alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that I can consider?

Yes, there are several alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that offer similar functionality for building and customizing pages in WordPress. Plugins like Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Divi Builder are popular among users seeking robust page-building features. Each has its own set of features and security protocols, so review their details and user ratings to choose one that suits your needs.

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

What are CVSS scores, and why is it significant that the SSRF vulnerability had a score of 8.5?

CVSS (Common Vulnerability Scoring System) provides a way to capture the principal characteristics of a security vulnerability and produce a numerical score reflecting its severity. The score ranges from 0 to 10, with higher values representing greater risk. The SSRF vulnerability in the Gutenberg Blocks plugin had a score of 8.5, indicating it is a high-severity issue that could lead to significant impact on affected websites, emphasizing the need for urgent action to mitigate risks.

Can updating the plugin disrupt my website?

While updates are designed to be seamless, occasionally, they can cause issues with site functionality, especially if the site uses custom code or integrations that depend on the older versions of plugins. It’s a good practice to backup your website before applying updates, allowing you to restore the previous version if something goes wrong. Testing updates on a staging site first can also help you avoid disrupting your live site.

What steps can I take to improve overall security on my WordPress site?

Beyond keeping plugins and themes updated, consider implementing a website firewall, using strong passwords, and limiting login attempts to protect against brute force attacks. Regularly scan your website for vulnerabilities and malware, and ensure your hosting environment is secure. Educating yourself and your website administrators about basic security best practices is also crucial to maintaining a secure WordPress site.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2023-6964, Gutenberg Blocks vulnerability, Kadence Blocks, Plugin Updates, server-side request forgery, small business cybersecurity, Website Maintenance, website security tips, WordPress plugin updates, wordpress security

Plugin Name: Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks – Page Builder Features

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

About the Plugin:

Details of the Vulnerability:

Previous Incidents:

Remediation Steps:

Advice for Small Business Owners:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks Vulnerability – Page Builder Features – Authenticated(Contributor+) Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) – CVE-2023-6964 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is an SSRF vulnerability?

How do I know if my website uses the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin?

What should I do if my plugin is affected?

How can I set my WordPress site to automatically update plugins?

What are the risks of not updating the Gutenberg Blocks plugin?

Are there alternatives to the Gutenberg Blocks plugin that I can consider?

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

What are CVSS scores, and why is it significant that the SSRF vulnerability had a score of 8.5?

Can updating the plugin disrupt my website?

What steps can I take to improve overall security on my WordPress site?

Share this post:

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