Insert PHP Code Snippet Vulnerability – Authenticated (Admin+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0658 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0658?

What is CVE-2024-0658? CVE-2024-0658 refers to a specific security vulnerability identified in the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" WordPress plugin. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with administrative privileges to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks by injecting arbitrary web scripts into web pages through the plugin's management interface. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of users or the disclosure of sensitive information. It underscores the importance of proper input sanitization and output escaping in web applications to prevent malicious data from being executed as code.

Q: How does CVE-2024-0658 affect my WordPress site?

How does CVE-2024-0658 affect my WordPress site? If your WordPress site uses the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin versions up to and including 1.3.4, it may be vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. Attackers with administrative access can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into your site, which can be executed by other users, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data breaches. The risk is particularly significant for sites with multiple users having administrative privileges or for multi-site installations. It's crucial to update the plugin to version 1.3.5 or later to mitigate this vulnerability and protect your site from potential exploits.

Q: What steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0658?

What steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0658? To protect your site from the CVE-2024-0658 vulnerability, immediately update the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to version 1.3.5 or later. This patched version includes fixes that prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability. In addition to updating the plugin, regularly review and limit administrative access to your WordPress site to only those who absolutely need it. Regularly monitor your site for unusual activities and consider using security plugins that can help detect and prevent malicious actions.

Q: Can CVE-2024-0658 be exploited by any user?

Can CVE-2024-0658 be exploited by any user? No, CVE-2024-0658 cannot be exploited by just any user. The vulnerability requires that the attacker has administrative privileges on the WordPress site to inject malicious scripts via the plugin's management interface. This means that the risk is somewhat contained to sites where attackers have already gained high-level access, but it also highlights the importance of strict access controls and the principle of least privilege.

Q: What are the potential consequences of an XSS attack like CVE-2024-0658?

What are the potential consequences of an XSS attack like CVE-2024-0658? An XSS attack exploiting CVE-2024-0658 can lead to several potential consequences, including unauthorized access to user sessions, redirecting users to malicious sites, or stealing sensitive information such as login credentials. Since the scripts injected can run in the context of a user's browser, the attacker can perform actions on behalf of the user without their knowledge or consent. For businesses, this can result in significant damage to reputation, loss of customer trust, and even legal ramifications if customer data is compromised. It's critical to address vulnerabilities promptly to mitigate these risks.

Q: Is updating the plugin the only way to mitigate CVE-2024-0658?

Is updating the plugin the only way to mitigate CVE-2024-0658? Updating the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to version 1.3.5 or later is the primary way to mitigate the CVE-2024-0658 vulnerability. However, adopting broader security practices can also help protect your site. These include using strong passwords, limiting login attempts, regularly auditing user roles and privileges, and employing a web application firewall (WAF). Implementing these additional security measures can help safeguard your site against future vulnerabilities and reduce the overall risk of exploitation.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable? To check if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0658, verify the version of the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin installed on your WordPress site. If the plugin's version is 1.3.4 or lower, your site is vulnerable and needs to be updated immediately. You can check the plugin version from the WordPress admin dashboard under the "Plugins" section. It's also a good practice to regularly audit your site for outdated plugins and themes, even if there are no known vulnerabilities.

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

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored and later executed in the browsers of other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires tricking a user into clicking a malicious link, stored XSS attacks are persistent and can affect users directly visiting the compromised site. This type of vulnerability exploits the trust a user has for a particular site and can lead to unauthorized actions being performed, data theft, and other security breaches.

Q: Should I stop using the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin?

Should I stop using the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin? Not necessarily. If you update the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to the latest version (1.3.5 or later), the specific vulnerability CVE-2024-0658 is addressed, and the plugin can be used safely. Like any software, vulnerabilities can be discovered in plugins, but timely updates and patches are typically released by developers to address these issues. Continuously monitor the security advisories for the plugins you use and maintain them up-to-date to ensure the security of your WordPress site.

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

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? To stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins, regularly check security blogs, forums, and databases that track WordPress vulnerabilities, such as the WordPress Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri. Subscribing to security newsletters and enabling update notifications in your WordPress dashboard can also help you stay updated on new releases and potential security issues. Being proactive about your site's security and regularly performing updates and audits is crucial in protecting against vulnerabilities and ensuring the safety of your online presence.

By Your WP Guy | February 9, 2024

Plugin Name: Insert PHP Code Snippet

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: insert-php-code-snippet
Software Status: Active
Software Author: f1logic
Software Downloads: 890,439
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: February 16, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.3.5
Affected Versions: <= 1.3.4

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Insert PHP Code Snippet <= 1.3.4
Title: Authenticated (Admin+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:H/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-0658
CVSS Score: 4.4
Publicly Published: February 9, 2024
Researcher: Felipe Restrepo Rodriguez
Description: The Insert PHP Code Snippet plugin is susceptible to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks in versions up to and including 1.3.4. This vulnerability arises from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, particularly when handling user names on the insert-php-code-snippet-manage page. Only authenticated users with administrative privileges can exploit this flaw, which allows the injection of arbitrary web scripts that execute when a user visits an affected page. It's noteworthy that this vulnerability primarily impacts multi-site installations or instances where the unfiltered_html capability has been disabled.

Summary:

The Insert PHP Code Snippet plugin harbors a vulnerability in versions up to 1.3.4, enabling Admin-level users to execute stored XSS attacks. This issue has been resolved in version 1.3.5, ensuring enhanced security for users of this plugin.

Detailed Overview:

Identified by researcher Felipe Restrepo Rodriguez, this vulnerability puts websites at risk by allowing malicious scripts to be stored within the plugin's settings. Such scripts could be executed unknowingly by other users, leading to potential data breaches or unauthorized administrative actions. The specific nature of this vulnerability means that it is less likely to be exploited en masse, given the need for administrative access, but it underscores the importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding practices in plugin development.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the Insert PHP Code Snippet plugin should promptly update to version 1.3.5 to mitigate this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators are advised to review their site for any unusual activities or injected scripts, particularly if administrative accounts have been compromised in the past.
Alternate Plugins: While the latest patch addresses this vulnerability, users may consider evaluating alternative plugins for executing PHP code snippets that adhere to stringent security standards.
Stay Updated: It's crucial to maintain the latest versions of all installed plugins to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure the ongoing security of your WordPress site.

Conclusion:

The swift action taken to rectify this vulnerability in the Insert PHP Code Snippet plugin highlights the critical nature of maintaining up-to-date software on your WordPress site. By updating to version 1.3.5 or later, users can safeguard their sites against potential XSS attacks facilitated by this flaw.

References:

In today's digital ecosystem, the security of your WordPress website is not just a priority but a necessity. The recent discovery of a vulnerability in the widely-used "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin, marked as CVE-2024-0658, serves as a stark reminder of the latent risks in digital tools we often take for granted. This vulnerability exposes websites to potential Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks, specifically targeting websites with multi-site installations or those where the unfiltered_html capability has been disabled. It's a wake-up call to the importance of maintaining vigilance and up-to-date practices in website security management.

About the Plugin:

"Insert PHP Code Snippet" is a popular WordPress plugin developed by f1logic, with over 890,439 downloads and 100,000 active installations. It allows users to easily execute PHP code snippets on their WordPress sites, enhancing functionality and customizability. Despite its utility, the plugin became a security concern when versions up to and including 1.3.4 were found to be vulnerable to XSS attacks due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping.

Vulnerability Details:

The vulnerability, identified by researcher Felipe Restrepo Rodriguez and publicly disclosed on February 9, 2024, enables attackers with administrative privileges to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts could potentially be executed by unsuspecting users, leading to unauthorized access, data breaches, or other malicious activities. The issue was specifically found in the handling of user names on the plugin's management page and affects all versions up to 1.3.4.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The primary risk of this vulnerability is the unauthorized execution of web scripts, which could compromise user data and website integrity. For businesses, this could mean a loss of customer trust, damage to reputation, or even legal consequences, especially if sensitive customer information is compromised. The targeted nature of this vulnerability means that the risk is somewhat mitigated by the requirement for administrative access, but it nonetheless underscores the importance of strict role management and security practices.

Remediation and Previous Vulnerabilities:

To address this vulnerability, the plugin developers released version 1.3.5, which includes necessary patches. Users are urged to update their plugin to this latest version immediately. It's also advisable to review administrative access and monitor for any unusual activities or injected scripts. This isn't the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in WordPress plugins, highlighting the ongoing battle against security threats in the digital space.

Conclusion:

For small business owners juggling numerous responsibilities, staying on top of security updates might seem daunting. However, the security of your WordPress site is crucial for protecting your business and customer data. Implementing regular update checks, utilizing security plugins, and following best practices for user access management can significantly mitigate risks. Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, complacency can be the biggest vulnerability. The recent "Insert PHP Code Snippet" vulnerability is a reminder of the ever-present need for vigilance and proactive security measures in safeguarding your digital presence.

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.

Insert PHP Code Snippet Vulnerability – Authenticated (Admin+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0658 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0658?

CVE-2024-0658 refers to a specific security vulnerability identified in the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" WordPress plugin. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with administrative privileges to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks by injecting arbitrary web scripts into web pages through the plugin's management interface.

The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it can lead to unauthorized actions being performed on behalf of users or the disclosure of sensitive information. It underscores the importance of proper input sanitization and output escaping in web applications to prevent malicious data from being executed as code.

How does CVE-2024-0658 affect my WordPress site?

If your WordPress site uses the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin versions up to and including 1.3.4, it may be vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. Attackers with administrative access can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into your site, which can be executed by other users, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data breaches.

The risk is particularly significant for sites with multiple users having administrative privileges or for multi-site installations. It's crucial to update the plugin to version 1.3.5 or later to mitigate this vulnerability and protect your site from potential exploits.

What steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0658?

To protect your site from the CVE-2024-0658 vulnerability, immediately update the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to version 1.3.5 or later. This patched version includes fixes that prevent the exploitation of this vulnerability.

In addition to updating the plugin, regularly review and limit administrative access to your WordPress site to only those who absolutely need it. Regularly monitor your site for unusual activities and consider using security plugins that can help detect and prevent malicious actions.

Can CVE-2024-0658 be exploited by any user?

No, CVE-2024-0658 cannot be exploited by just any user. The vulnerability requires that the attacker has administrative privileges on the WordPress site to inject malicious scripts via the plugin's management interface. This means that the risk is somewhat contained to sites where attackers have already gained high-level access, but it also highlights the importance of strict access controls and the principle of least privilege.

What are the potential consequences of an XSS attack like CVE-2024-0658?

An XSS attack exploiting CVE-2024-0658 can lead to several potential consequences, including unauthorized access to user sessions, redirecting users to malicious sites, or stealing sensitive information such as login credentials. Since the scripts injected can run in the context of a user's browser, the attacker can perform actions on behalf of the user without their knowledge or consent.

For businesses, this can result in significant damage to reputation, loss of customer trust, and even legal ramifications if customer data is compromised. It's critical to address vulnerabilities promptly to mitigate these risks.

Is updating the plugin the only way to mitigate CVE-2024-0658?

Updating the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to version 1.3.5 or later is the primary way to mitigate the CVE-2024-0658 vulnerability. However, adopting broader security practices can also help protect your site. These include using strong passwords, limiting login attempts, regularly auditing user roles and privileges, and employing a web application firewall (WAF).

Implementing these additional security measures can help safeguard your site against future vulnerabilities and reduce the overall risk of exploitation.

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable?

To check if your site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-0658, verify the version of the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin installed on your WordPress site. If the plugin's version is 1.3.4 or lower, your site is vulnerable and needs to be updated immediately.

You can check the plugin version from the WordPress admin dashboard under the "Plugins" section. It's also a good practice to regularly audit your site for outdated plugins and themes, even if there are no known vulnerabilities.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored and later executed in the browsers of other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which requires tricking a user into clicking a malicious link, stored XSS attacks are persistent and can affect users directly visiting the compromised site.

This type of vulnerability exploits the trust a user has for a particular site and can lead to unauthorized actions being performed, data theft, and other security breaches.

Should I stop using the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin?

Not necessarily. If you update the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin to the latest version (1.3.5 or later), the specific vulnerability CVE-2024-0658 is addressed, and the plugin can be used safely. Like any software, vulnerabilities can be discovered in plugins, but timely updates and patches are typically released by developers to address these issues.

Continuously monitor the security advisories for the plugins you use and maintain them up-to-date to ensure the security of your WordPress site.

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

To stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins, regularly check security blogs, forums, and databases that track WordPress vulnerabilities, such as the WordPress Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri. Subscribing to security newsletters and enabling update notifications in your WordPress dashboard can also help you stay updated on new releases and potential security issues.

Being proactive about your site's security and regularly performing updates and audits is crucial in protecting against vulnerabilities and ensuring the safety of your online presence.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged admin security, CVE-2024-0658, cybersecurity for small business, digital safety., Insert PHP Code Snippet, PHP code execution, Plugin Update, Website Protection, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Insert PHP Code Snippet

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

About the Plugin:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation and Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Insert PHP Code Snippet Vulnerability – Authenticated (Admin+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0658 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0658?

How does CVE-2024-0658 affect my WordPress site?

What steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-0658?

Can CVE-2024-0658 be exploited by any user?

What are the potential consequences of an XSS attack like CVE-2024-0658?

Is updating the plugin the only way to mitigate CVE-2024-0658?

How can I check if my WordPress site is vulnerable?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Should I stop using the "Insert PHP Code Snippet" plugin?

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

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