Happy Addons for Elementor Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Archive Title Widget – CVE-2024-1366 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1366?

What is CVE-2024-1366? CVE-2024-1366 is a security vulnerability identified in the Happy Addons for Elementor WordPress plugin. This flaw specifically relates to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) within the Archive Title Widget, which arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. As a result, attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can inject malicious scripts into web pages, posing significant security risks to websites using the affected versions of the plugin.

Q: How can CVE-2024-1366 affect my WordPress site?

How can CVE-2024-1366 affect my WordPress site? If your website utilizes the Happy Addons for Elementor plugin, particularly versions up to and including 3.10.3, your site is at risk. The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to execute harmful scripts on your website, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, user session hijacking, and even the distribution of malware to site visitors. Such incidents can severely undermine your website's integrity and the trust of your users.

Q: How do I know if my website has been compromised?

How do I know if my website has been compromised? Detecting a compromise can be challenging, but there are some signs you can look for. Unusual changes to your website's content, the appearance of unknown user accounts, or unexpected administrative actions could all be indicators of a security breach. It's also advisable to use security plugins that can scan for malware and review your site's access logs for suspicious activities.

Q: What immediate actions should I take to address CVE-2024-1366?

What immediate actions should I take to address CVE-2024-1366? The first and most critical step is to update the Happy Addons for Elementor plugin to the latest version, 3.10.4, which contains a patch for the vulnerability. Keeping your plugins updated is a key practice in maintaining a secure WordPress site. Additionally, conducting a thorough security audit of your site to check for any signs of compromise and implementing security measures like firewalls and malware scans can help fortify your site's defenses.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins to Happy Addons for Elementor that I can use?

Are there any alternative plugins to Happy Addons for Elementor that I can use? Yes, there are several alternative plugins available that offer similar functionalities to Happy Addons for Elementor. When looking for alternatives, it's important to consider the plugin's update history, user reviews, and compatibility with your current WordPress setup. Testing any new plugin in a staging environment before applying it to your live site is always a good practice to avoid potential issues.

Q: Why is updating WordPress plugins so crucial for website security?

Why is updating WordPress plugins so crucial for website security? Plugins are often the lifeline of WordPress sites, extending functionality and adding new features. However, they can also be a common source of vulnerabilities. Regular updates often contain security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities, making updates critical to protecting your site from potential exploits and keeping it running smoothly.

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

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a web security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages visited by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which targets individual users through links or emails, stored XSS involves inserting the malicious script into the database of a website, where it can affect multiple users. This type of attack can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and a range of other security issues.

Q: How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions become available. Developers frequently release updates to address security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve compatibility with the core WordPress software. Establishing a routine for checking and applying updates ensures that your site benefits from the latest security patches and functional improvements.

Q: Can updating a plugin cause compatibility issues with my WordPress site?

Can updating a plugin cause compatibility issues with my WordPress site? While plugin updates are crucial for security and functionality, they can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with other plugins or themes. To minimize the risk, it's recommended to perform updates in a staging environment first. This allows you to test the update and ensure that it doesn't adversely affect your site before applying it to the live environment.

Q: What are some best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress website?

What are some best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress website? Maintaining a secure WordPress site involves a combination of regular updates, strong passwords, the use of security plugins, and vigilant monitoring for suspicious activity. Employing a reputable security plugin that scans for vulnerabilities and malware, implementing a firewall, and conducting regular backups are also key practices. Educating yourself and staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is equally important in safeguarding your online presence.

By Your WP Guy | March 6, 2024

Plugin Name: Happy Addons for Elementor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: happy-elementor-addons
Software Status: Active
Software Author: thehappymonster
Software Downloads: 6,213,235
Active Installs: 400,000
Last Updated: March 8, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.10.4
Affected Versions: <= 3.10.3

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Happy Addons for Elementor <= 3.10.3
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Archive Title Widget
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-1366
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 6, 2024
Researcher: Wesley
Description: The vulnerability in Happy Addons for Elementor stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the 'archive_title_tag' attribute of the Archive Title widget. This flaw allows attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages, posing a threat to website security and user safety.

Summary:

The Happy Addons for Elementor plugin, widely used for enhancing Elementor page builder capabilities, has been found vulnerable in versions up to and including 3.10.3. This vulnerability, identified as an Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) risk via the Archive Title Widget, has been addressed in the latest patch, version 3.10.4.

Detailed Overview:

Wesley, a security researcher, discovered this critical vulnerability, which could be exploited by attackers with minimal permissions to compromise the security of WordPress websites using the plugin. By inserting harmful scripts into web pages, attackers could potentially gain unauthorized access to website data, manipulate content, or redirect users to malicious sites. The plugin developers have promptly released a patched version to mitigate this security risk.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 3.10.4 immediately to secure your website from this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your website for unexpected changes or content, which might indicate a compromise.
Alternate Plugins: Consider exploring other Elementor addons that provide similar functionalities as a temporary measure until you're confident in the patched version's security.
Stay Updated: Ensuring that all your WordPress plugins are up-to-date is crucial for maintaining a secure online presence.

Conclusion:

The quick resolution of this vulnerability by the Happy Addons for Elementor developers emphasizes the critical nature of software updates in safeguarding digital assets. Users are strongly encouraged to upgrade to version 3.10.4 or later to protect their websites from potential security breaches.

References:

In the bustling digital landscape where creativity meets functionality, the Elementor page builder has become a beacon for website designers and owners alike. Complementing this, Happy Addons for Elementor stands out as a valuable extension, enriching the Elementor ecosystem with its innovative widgets and features. Yet, the recent discovery of a security vulnerability, designated CVE-2024-1366, within Happy Addons for Elementor casts a shadow on its utility, highlighting the perennial battle between innovation and cybersecurity.

Plugin Overview:

Happy Addons for Elementor, developed by thehappymonster, is a plugin that enhances the capabilities of the Elementor page builder, boasting over 6 million downloads and 400,000 active installations. Its features are designed to empower users with additional creative tools and functionalities, making website design both accessible and dynamic.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-1366 exposes a critical flaw within the plugin's Archive Title Widget, specifically in the 'archive_title_tag' attribute, where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping allow attackers with contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts. Publicly disclosed by researcher Wesley on March 6, 2024, this vulnerability affects all plugin versions up to and including 3.10.3 and carries a CVSS score of 6.4, signifying a considerable security risk.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized data access, website defacement, and compromise of user safety, eroding trust and potentially leading to significant reputational and financial damage, especially for small businesses reliant on their online presence.

Remediation and Prevention:

To mitigate the risks, users are urged to update to the patched version 3.10.4 immediately. Additionally, regular monitoring of website content and user activities is advisable to detect any signs of compromise early. For those seeking added security, exploring alternative plugins with similar functionality might provide peace of mind while ensuring continuity in operations.

Historical Vulnerabilities:

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been identified in Happy Addons for Elementor, with 11 previous instances reported since April 26, 2021. Each incident underscores the importance of continuous vigilance and proactive security measures in the digital domain.

In conclusion, the discovery of CVE-2024-1366 within Happy Addons for Elementor serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing need for diligence in maintaining website security. For small business owners juggling myriad responsibilities, this incident highlights the importance of automated security solutions, regular updates, and partnerships with reputable hosting and security providers. Staying abreast of vulnerabilities and adopting a proactive stance towards cybersecurity can protect your digital assets, ensuring the safety and reliability of your online presence in an ever-evolving threat landscape.

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.

Happy Addons for Elementor Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Archive Title Widget – CVE-2024-1366 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1366?

CVE-2024-1366 is a security vulnerability identified in the Happy Addons for Elementor WordPress plugin. This flaw specifically relates to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) within the Archive Title Widget, which arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. As a result, attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can inject malicious scripts into web pages, posing significant security risks to websites using the affected versions of the plugin.

How can CVE-2024-1366 affect my WordPress site?

If your website utilizes the Happy Addons for Elementor plugin, particularly versions up to and including 3.10.3, your site is at risk. The vulnerability can be exploited by malicious actors to execute harmful scripts on your website, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, user session hijacking, and even the distribution of malware to site visitors. Such incidents can severely undermine your website's integrity and the trust of your users.

How do I know if my website has been compromised?

Detecting a compromise can be challenging, but there are some signs you can look for. Unusual changes to your website's content, the appearance of unknown user accounts, or unexpected administrative actions could all be indicators of a security breach. It's also advisable to use security plugins that can scan for malware and review your site's access logs for suspicious activities.

What immediate actions should I take to address CVE-2024-1366?

The first and most critical step is to update the Happy Addons for Elementor plugin to the latest version, 3.10.4, which contains a patch for the vulnerability. Keeping your plugins updated is a key practice in maintaining a secure WordPress site. Additionally, conducting a thorough security audit of your site to check for any signs of compromise and implementing security measures like firewalls and malware scans can help fortify your site's defenses.

Are there any alternative plugins to Happy Addons for Elementor that I can use?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins available that offer similar functionalities to Happy Addons for Elementor. When looking for alternatives, it's important to consider the plugin's update history, user reviews, and compatibility with your current WordPress setup. Testing any new plugin in a staging environment before applying it to your live site is always a good practice to avoid potential issues.

Why is updating WordPress plugins so crucial for website security?

Plugins are often the lifeline of WordPress sites, extending functionality and adding new features. However, they can also be a common source of vulnerabilities. Regular updates often contain security patches that address newly discovered vulnerabilities, making updates critical to protecting your site from potential exploits and keeping it running smoothly.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a web security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages visited by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which targets individual users through links or emails, stored XSS involves inserting the malicious script into the database of a website, where it can affect multiple users. This type of attack can lead to unauthorized access, data theft, and a range of other security issues.

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions become available. Developers frequently release updates to address security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve compatibility with the core WordPress software. Establishing a routine for checking and applying updates ensures that your site benefits from the latest security patches and functional improvements.

Can updating a plugin cause compatibility issues with my WordPress site?

While plugin updates are crucial for security and functionality, they can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with other plugins or themes. To minimize the risk, it's recommended to perform updates in a staging environment first. This allows you to test the update and ensure that it doesn't adversely affect your site before applying it to the live environment.

What are some best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress website?

Maintaining a secure WordPress site involves a combination of regular updates, strong passwords, the use of security plugins, and vigilant monitoring for suspicious activity. Employing a reputable security plugin that scans for vulnerabilities and malware, implementing a firewall, and conducting regular backups are also key practices. Educating yourself and staying informed about the latest security threats and best practices is equally important in safeguarding your online presence.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-1366, cybersecurity for small businesses, digital asset protection, Elementor plugin, Happy Addons vulnerability, Plugin Updates, secure web design, website safety, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Happy Addons for Elementor

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation and Prevention:

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Staying Secure

Happy Addons for Elementor Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Archive Title Widget – CVE-2024-1366 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1366?

How can CVE-2024-1366 affect my WordPress site?

How do I know if my website has been compromised?

What immediate actions should I take to address CVE-2024-1366?

Are there any alternative plugins to Happy Addons for Elementor that I can use?

Why is updating WordPress plugins so crucial for website security?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

Can updating a plugin cause compatibility issues with my WordPress site?

What are some best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress website?

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