HT Mega Vulnerability– Absolute Addons For Elementor – Authenticated Directory Traversal – CVE-2024-1974 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is a Directory Traversal vulnerability?

What is a Directory Traversal vulnerability? A Directory Traversal vulnerability allows attackers to access files and directories that are stored outside the web root folder. By exploiting such vulnerabilities, attackers can read sensitive files from the server, potentially gaining access to private data, configuration files, or even credentials stored in the system.

Q: How does the CVE-2024-1974 vulnerability in HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor work?

How does the CVE-2024-1974 vulnerability in HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor work? CVE-2024-1974 exploits the plugin's 'render' function, where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping enable attackers with at least contributor-level access to navigate the server's directory structure. This can lead to unauthorized access to files, posing a significant security risk to the WordPress site.

Q: What versions of HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor are affected by this vulnerability?

What versions of HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor are affected by this vulnerability? Versions up to and including 2.4.6 of the HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor plugin are affected by this vulnerability. The developers have addressed this issue in version 2.4.7, which includes necessary patches to mitigate the risk.

Q: How can I protect my site from CVE-2024-1974?

How can I protect my site from CVE-2024-1974? Updating the HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor plugin to version 2.4.7 or later is the most effective way to protect your site. It's also advisable to regularly review and update all installed plugins and themes to their latest versions to safeguard against known vulnerabilities.

Q: What should I do if I can't update the plugin immediately?

What should I do if I can't update the plugin immediately? If an immediate update is not possible, consider disabling the plugin temporarily until you can apply the patch. Additionally, ensure that only trusted users have access to your WordPress admin area, especially those with the capability to insert shortcodes or modify plugin settings.

Q: Are there any alternatives to the HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor plugin?

Are there any alternatives to the HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor plugin? Several other Elementor addon plugins provide similar functionalities with strong security measures. Researching and choosing a plugin with a good track record for security and frequent updates can be a safer alternative.

Q: How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? Monitor your site for unusual activities, such as unauthorized content changes or unexpected script executions. Reviewing access logs for suspicious activities and scanning your website with a reputable security tool can help identify potential compromises.

Q: Can updating the plugin cause any issues with my website?

Can updating the plugin cause any issues with my website? While updates aim to improve security and functionality, they can sometimes lead to compatibility issues with other plugins or themes. It's best to test updates in a staging environment first, if possible, to ensure that your website functions correctly after applying the patch.

Q: How often should I update my WordPress plugins?

How often should I update my WordPress plugins? Regularly checking for and applying updates to your WordPress plugins is crucial for maintaining site security. It's a good practice to review and update your plugins at least once a month or whenever a new security patch is released.

Q: What other measures can I take to enhance my WordPress site's security?

What other measures can I take to enhance my WordPress site's security? In addition to keeping your plugins and themes updated, implementing security best practices such as using strong passwords, employing a WordPress security plugin, enabling two-factor authentication, and regularly backing up your site can significantly enhance your website's security posture.

By Your WP Guy | March 14, 2024

Plugin Name: HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: ht-mega-for-elementor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: devitemsllc
Software Downloads: 3,604,562
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: March 14, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.4.7
Affected Versions: <= 2.4.6

Vulnerability Details:

Name: HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor <= 2.4.6
Title: Authenticated Directory Traversal
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-1974
CVSS Score: 8.8
Publicly Published: March 14, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The plugin is vulnerable to Directory Traversal in versions up to 2.4.6 via the render function, allowing authenticated attackers with contributor-level access or higher to read arbitrary files on the server, potentially exposing sensitive information.

Summary:

HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor, a widely-used plugin for enhancing Elementor with additional widgets and functionalities, has been identified with a significant security vulnerability in versions up to 2.4.6. This vulnerability, known as CVE-2024-1974, involves Directory Traversal, which could allow attackers with sufficient permissions to access sensitive data on the server. The issue has been addressed in the newly released version 2.4.7, enhancing the plugin's security posture.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by cybersecurity expert Webbernaut, CVE-2024-1974 highlights the critical importance of securing plugin functionalities against unauthorized access to the server's file system. Directory Traversal vulnerabilities can lead to the exposure of sensitive information, which could have severe implications for website security and data privacy.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 2.4.7 immediately to mitigate the vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your website for any unusual activity or unauthorized access attempts, as these could indicate exploitation of the vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is secure, users may consider other Elementor addons that provide similar functionalities with strong security measures.
Stay Updated: Regularly updating all WordPress components, including plugins, themes, and the core, is crucial for maintaining site security.

Conclusion:

The prompt patching of CVE-2024-1974 by the developers of HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor underscores the continuous challenge of maintaining security in the WordPress ecosystem. For WordPress site administrators, especially those overseeing sites for small businesses with limited technical resources, understanding the importance of timely software updates and following security best practices is essential for protecting against potential threats.

References:

In today's digital landscape, the security of WordPress websites is paramount, particularly as cyber threats become increasingly sophisticated. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability in the "HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor" plugin underscores the critical importance of keeping your site's components updated to safeguard against potential breaches.

Plugin Overview

"HT Mega – Absolute Addons For Elementor" is a widely used plugin that enhances the Elementor page builder with additional widgets and functionalities. Developed by devitemsllc, the plugin boasts over 3.6 million downloads and is actively installed on 100,000 WordPress sites. It is designed to offer a more comprehensive and flexible design experience for Elementor users.

Vulnerability Details

The vulnerability in question, identified as CVE-2024-1974, is categorized as an Authenticated Directory Traversal. With a CVSS score of 8.8, it poses a high risk, as it allows attackers with contributor-level access or higher to read arbitrary files on the server, potentially exposing sensitive information. This vulnerability affects all plugin versions up to 2.4.6 and has been patched in version 2.4.7.

Risks and Impacts

Directory Traversal vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1974 can lead to the exposure of sensitive data, compromising website security and user privacy. The ability of attackers to access server files can result in data breaches, unauthorized data manipulation, and a loss of trust among site users and customers.

Remediation and User Advice

Users of the plugin are strongly encouraged to update to the patched version, 2.4.7, immediately. Additionally, monitoring your website for unusual activity or unauthorized access attempts is crucial in detecting potential exploitation of this vulnerability. While the updated version addresses this specific issue, exploring alternative Elementor addons with robust security features may provide an added layer of security.

Previous Vulnerabilities

The HT Mega plugin has encountered six vulnerabilities since April 13, 2021, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by popular WordPress plugins. These instances emphasize the need for continuous vigilance and prompt updates to mitigate risks.

Conclusion

The swift resolution of CVE-2024-1974 by the HT Mega plugin developers is a testament to the importance of proactive security measures within the WordPress community. For small business owners and website administrators, especially those with limited technical support, staying informed about vulnerabilities and ensuring timely software updates are key to protecting digital assets against evolving cyber threats. As the online landscape continues to grow in complexity, prioritizing website security is not just advisable—it's essential.

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.