Import and export users and customers Vulnerability – Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-4656, CVE-2024-4734 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability?

What is the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability? The "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability is a security flaw that allows authenticated attackers with administrator access to inject malicious scripts into a WordPress website via the user agent header and admin settings. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-4656 and CVE-2024-4734, affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.26.6.1. The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, which enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts whenever a user accesses an injected page. It is important to note that the vulnerability affecting admin settings only impacts multi-site installations and installations where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is using the vulnerable plugin version?

How can I check if my WordPress site is using the vulnerable plugin version? To check if your WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of the "Import and export users and customers" plugin, log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the "Plugins" section. Look for the "Import and export users and customers" plugin in the list and check its version number. If the version number is 1.26.6.1 or lower, your site is using a vulnerable version of the plugin. It is crucial to update the plugin to version 1.26.7 or later to protect your website from potential attacks.

Q: What are the risks associated with this vulnerability?

What are the risks associated with this vulnerability? The risks associated with the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability include unauthorized access to your website and its data, injection of malicious scripts that could harm your users, damage to your website's reputation and loss of user trust, and potential legal and financial repercussions. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to deface your website, steal sensitive information, or use your site to distribute malware. This could lead to a loss of customer trust, damage to your brand's reputation, and even legal consequences if sensitive user data is compromised.

Q: How do I update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to a secure version?

How do I update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to a secure version? To update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to a secure version, follow these steps: Log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the "Plugins" section. Locate the "Import and export users and customers" plugin and click on the "Update Now" button. After the update process is complete, verify that the plugin version is 1.26.7 or later. If you don't see an "Update Now" button, you may need to delete the current plugin and install the latest version from the WordPress plugin repository.

Q: What should I do if I'm not comfortable updating the plugin myself?

What should I do if I'm not comfortable updating the plugin myself? If you are not comfortable updating the "Import and export users and customers" plugin yourself, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional WordPress developer or a reliable website maintenance and security service provider. These experts can help you update the plugin, ensure your website's security, and provide ongoing support to keep your site protected against future vulnerabilities. They can also assist you in monitoring your website for potential threats and implementing best practices for maintaining a secure online presence.

Q: Can I continue using an older version of the plugin if I don't have administrator access?

Can I continue using an older version of the plugin if I don't have administrator access? No, it is not recommended to continue using an older version of the "Import and export users and customers" plugin, even if you don't have administrator access. While the vulnerability primarily affects users with administrator privileges, it is still crucial to update the plugin to a secure version to protect your website and its users. If you don't have administrator access to your WordPress site, contact the site owner or the administrator responsible for managing the website. Inform them about the vulnerability and the importance of updating the plugin to maintain the site's security.

Q: How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting my WordPress site in the future?

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting my WordPress site in the future? To prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting your WordPress site in the future, follow these best practices: Regularly update your WordPress core, plugins, and themes to the latest versions. Monitor your website for potential security threats and unusual activity. Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for all user accounts. Limit the number of users with administrator access to your site. Regularly back up your website's files and database. By implementing these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your site falling victim to vulnerabilities like the one affecting the "Import and export users and customers" plugin.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? If you suspect your website has been compromised due to the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability, take the following steps: Immediately update the plugin to the latest secure version (1.26.7 or later). Scan your website for malware and malicious scripts using a reliable security plugin or service. Change all user passwords, especially those with administrator access. Review your website's files and database for any suspicious changes or unauthorized modifications. If you are unsure about how to proceed, contact a professional WordPress security expert for assistance. It is essential to act quickly and thoroughly when dealing with a potential website compromise to minimize the damage and prevent further harm to your site and its users.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to "Import and export users and customers"?

Are there any alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to "Import and export users and customers"? Yes, there are several alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to "Import and export users and customers." Some popular options include: "Import Export WordPress Users" by WebToffee "User Import Export" by Pixelated Code "Import and Export Users" by Smackcoders When choosing an alternative plugin, be sure to research its security history, read user reviews, and verify that it is actively maintained and regularly updated. Additionally, always keep the plugin updated to the latest version to minimize the risk of vulnerabilities.

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

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins and themes? To stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins and themes, follow these tips: Regularly visit reputable WordPress security websites and blogs, such as WordPress.org, Wordfence, and WPScan. Subscribe to WordPress security newsletters and email alerts to receive notifications about newly discovered vulnerabilities. Follow WordPress security experts and influencers on social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn. Attend WordPress security webinars, conferences, and workshops to learn about the latest trends and best practices in website security. By staying informed and proactive about WordPress security, you can better protect your website and its users from potential threats and vulnerabilities.

By Your WP Guy | May 14, 2024

Plugin Name: Import and export users and customers

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: import-users-from-csv-with-meta
Software Status: Active
Software Author: carazo
Software Downloads: 4,320,707
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: May 14, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.26.7
Affected Versions: <= 1.26.6.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Import and export users and customers <= 1.26.6.1 - Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')
CVE: CVE-2024-4656, CVE-2024-4734
CVSS Score: 4.4 (Medium)
Publicly Published: May 14, 2024
Researcher: quanhx hxx
Description: The Import and export users and customers plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the user agent header and admin settings in all versions up to, and including, 1.26.6.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with administrator access and higher, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Import and export users and customers plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.26.6.1 that allows authenticated attackers with administrator access and higher to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. This vulnerability has been patched in version 1.26.7.

Detailed Overview:

The Import and export users and customers plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the user agent header (CVE-2024-4656) and admin settings (CVE-2024-4734) in all versions up to, and including, 1.26.6.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with administrator-level permissions and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. The vulnerability affecting admin settings only affects multi-site installations and installations where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are encouraged to update the Import and export users and customers plugin to version 1.26.7 or later.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Users should check their WordPress sites for any signs of injected scripts or unauthorized modifications.
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.

The prompt response from the plugin developers to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. Users are advised to ensure that they are running version 1.26.7 or later to secure their WordPress installations. This plugin has had 15 previous vulnerabilities since December 2018, emphasizing the need for regular updates and monitoring.

References:

https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/import-users-from-csv-with-meta https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/import-users-from-csv-with-meta/import-and-export-users-and-customers-12661-authenticated-administrator-stored-cross-site-scripting-1 https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/import-users-from-csv-with-meta/import-and-export-users-and-customers-12661-authenticated-administrator-stored-cross-site-scripting

Detailed Report:

As a website owner, keeping your site secure should always be a top priority. Vulnerabilities in plugins, themes, and even WordPress core files can leave your site exposed to potential attacks, compromising your data and your users' information. Today, we're highlighting a critical vulnerability found in the popular "Import and export users and customers" plugin for WordPress, which has put thousands of websites at risk.

The "Import and export users and customers" Plugin

The "Import and export users and customers" plugin, developed by carazo, is a widely-used tool that allows WordPress site owners to easily import and export user data. With over 4 million downloads and 80,000 active installations, this plugin has become a go-to solution for many website administrators.

The Vulnerability

A severe vulnerability has been discovered in the "Import and export users and customers" plugin, affecting all versions up to and including 1.26.6.1. The vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-4656 and CVE-2024-4734, allows authenticated attackers with administrator access to inject malicious scripts into your website via the user agent header and admin settings.

This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts whenever a user accesses an injected page. It is important to note that the vulnerability affecting admin settings only impacts multi-site installations and installations where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

Risks and Potential Impacts

If left unpatched, this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences for your website:

Unauthorized access to your website and its data
Injection of malicious scripts that could harm your users
Damage to your website's reputation and loss of user trust
Potential legal and financial repercussions

Remediation

To protect your website from this vulnerability, it is crucial to update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to version 1.26.7 or later immediately. If you are unsure about how to update your plugins or need assistance in ensuring your website's security, don't hesitate to reach out to a professional.

Previous Vulnerabilities

It is worth noting that the "Import and export users and customers" plugin has had a history of vulnerabilities, with 15 reported since December 2018. This underscores the importance of regularly updating your plugins and staying vigilant about your website's security.

The Importance of Staying on Top of Security Vulnerabilities

As a small business owner, managing website security can be overwhelming, especially when you have limited time and resources. However, neglecting security updates can put your website, your business, and your customers at risk. By regularly updating your plugins, themes, and WordPress core files, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to a security breach.

If you find it challenging to keep up with the latest security updates and vulnerabilities, consider partnering with a reliable website maintenance and security service provider. They can help you monitor your website for potential threats, ensure timely updates, and provide expert guidance on maintaining a secure online presence.

Don't wait until it's too late. Take action now to protect your website and your users' data. Stay informed about the latest security risks and best practices, and prioritize the safety of your online assets. Your business and your customers will thank you for it.

As a business owner, you don't have time to constantly monitor for WordPress vulnerabilities like this. At Your WP Guy, we become your outsourced IT team to handle security, updates, maintenance and support. Let us fully audit your site and plugins to assess any impact from this issue. We'll update everything to patched versions so you can rest easy knowing your site is locked down.

Focus on your business goals while we focus on your WordPress site's security. Chat with us anytime during business hours, schedule a call or call 678-995-5169 for a free consultation on securing your online presence.

Import and export users and customers Vulnerability – Authenticated (Administrator+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-4656, CVE-2024-4734 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability?

The "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability is a security flaw that allows authenticated attackers with administrator access to inject malicious scripts into a WordPress website via the user agent header and admin settings. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-4656 and CVE-2024-4734, affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.26.6.1.

The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, which enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts whenever a user accesses an injected page. It is important to note that the vulnerability affecting admin settings only impacts multi-site installations and installations where unfiltered_html has been disabled.

How can I check if my WordPress site is using the vulnerable plugin version?

To check if your WordPress site is using a vulnerable version of the "Import and export users and customers" plugin, log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the "Plugins" section. Look for the "Import and export users and customers" plugin in the list and check its version number.

If the version number is 1.26.6.1 or lower, your site is using a vulnerable version of the plugin. It is crucial to update the plugin to version 1.26.7 or later to protect your website from potential attacks.

What are the risks associated with this vulnerability?

The risks associated with the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability include unauthorized access to your website and its data, injection of malicious scripts that could harm your users, damage to your website's reputation and loss of user trust, and potential legal and financial repercussions.

Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to deface your website, steal sensitive information, or use your site to distribute malware. This could lead to a loss of customer trust, damage to your brand's reputation, and even legal consequences if sensitive user data is compromised.

How do I update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to a secure version?

To update the "Import and export users and customers" plugin to a secure version, follow these steps:

Log in to your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the "Plugins" section.
Locate the "Import and export users and customers" plugin and click on the "Update Now" button.
After the update process is complete, verify that the plugin version is 1.26.7 or later.

If you don't see an "Update Now" button, you may need to delete the current plugin and install the latest version from the WordPress plugin repository.

What should I do if I'm not comfortable updating the plugin myself?

If you are not comfortable updating the "Import and export users and customers" plugin yourself, it is recommended to seek assistance from a professional WordPress developer or a reliable website maintenance and security service provider.

These experts can help you update the plugin, ensure your website's security, and provide ongoing support to keep your site protected against future vulnerabilities. They can also assist you in monitoring your website for potential threats and implementing best practices for maintaining a secure online presence.

Can I continue using an older version of the plugin if I don't have administrator access?

No, it is not recommended to continue using an older version of the "Import and export users and customers" plugin, even if you don't have administrator access. While the vulnerability primarily affects users with administrator privileges, it is still crucial to update the plugin to a secure version to protect your website and its users.

If you don't have administrator access to your WordPress site, contact the site owner or the administrator responsible for managing the website. Inform them about the vulnerability and the importance of updating the plugin to maintain the site's security.

How can I prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting my WordPress site in the future?

To prevent similar vulnerabilities from affecting your WordPress site in the future, follow these best practices:

Regularly update your WordPress core, plugins, and themes to the latest versions.
Monitor your website for potential security threats and unusual activity.
Use strong, unique passwords and enable two-factor authentication for all user accounts.
Limit the number of users with administrator access to your site.
Regularly back up your website's files and database.

By implementing these security measures, you can significantly reduce the risk of your site falling victim to vulnerabilities like the one affecting the "Import and export users and customers" plugin.

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

If you suspect your website has been compromised due to the "Import and export users and customers" plugin vulnerability, take the following steps:

Immediately update the plugin to the latest secure version (1.26.7 or later).
Scan your website for malware and malicious scripts using a reliable security plugin or service.
Change all user passwords, especially those with administrator access.
Review your website's files and database for any suspicious changes or unauthorized modifications.
If you are unsure about how to proceed, contact a professional WordPress security expert for assistance.

It is essential to act quickly and thoroughly when dealing with a potential website compromise to minimize the damage and prevent further harm to your site and its users.

Are there any alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to "Import and export users and customers"?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to "Import and export users and customers." Some popular options include:

"Import Export WordPress Users" by WebToffee
"User Import Export" by Pixelated Code
"Import and Export Users" by Smackcoders

When choosing an alternative plugin, be sure to research its security history, read user reviews, and verify that it is actively maintained and regularly updated. Additionally, always keep the plugin updated to the latest version to minimize the risk of vulnerabilities.

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

To stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins and themes, follow these tips:

Regularly visit reputable WordPress security websites and blogs, such as WordPress.org, Wordfence, and WPScan.
Subscribe to WordPress security newsletters and email alerts to receive notifications about newly discovered vulnerabilities.
Follow WordPress security experts and influencers on social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn.
Attend WordPress security webinars, conferences, and workshops to learn about the latest trends and best practices in website security.

By staying informed and proactive about WordPress security, you can better protect your website and its users from potential threats and vulnerabilities.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, CVE-2024-4656, CVE-2024-4734, import and export users and customers, Online Security, Plugin Update, Plugin Vulnerability, Small Business, Website Maintenance, Website Security, wordpress security, XSS