Link Whisper Free Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) PHP Object Injection – CVE-2024-2693 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is a PHP Object Injection vulnerability?

What is a PHP Object Injection vulnerability? PHP Object Injection is a type of security flaw that occurs when user-supplied input is not properly sanitized before being passed to the unserialize() PHP function. This vulnerability can allow attackers to manipulate the application's logic, alter application data, or execute arbitrary PHP code on the server. It's a serious issue because it can lead to a full compromise of the application and the server hosting it.

Q: How does the CVE-2024-2693 vulnerability affect Link Whisper Free?

How does the CVE-2024-2693 vulnerability affect Link Whisper Free? The CVE-2024-2693 vulnerability in Link Whisper Free allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions to inject malicious PHP objects into the WordPress site. This could potentially lead to unauthorized actions, such as deleting files, exposing sensitive information, or executing harmful code, especially if a suitable Property-Oriented Programming (POP) chain exists within the site's ecosystem. The risk is particularly high if other vulnerable plugins or themes are installed.

Q: What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability report?

What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability report? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score provides a standardized way to assess the severity of a security vulnerability. The score of 8.8 for CVE-2024-2693 indicates a high level of severity, suggesting that the vulnerability poses a significant risk and should be addressed promptly. A high CVSS score typically means that the vulnerability can have a widespread impact and is relatively easy for attackers to exploit.

Q: How can I update Link Whisper Free to the patched version?

How can I update Link Whisper Free to the patched version? To update Link Whisper Free, log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate Link Whisper Free in your list of installed plugins. If an update is available, you should see an 'Update Now' link. Clicking this link will initiate the update process, installing the latest version of the plugin that includes the security patch for CVE-2024-2693.

Q: What should I do if I can't update my Link Whisper Free plugin immediately?

What should I do if I can't update my Link Whisper Free plugin immediately? If you're unable to update Link Whisper Free immediately, consider temporarily deactivating the plugin until you can apply the update. While this may temporarily affect the functionality provided by the plugin, it's a crucial step in safeguarding your site against potential exploitation. It's also advisable to review your site's user roles to ensure that only trusted users have contributor-level access or higher.

Q: How can I tell if my WordPress site has been compromised?

How can I tell if my WordPress site has been compromised? Signs that your WordPress site may have been compromised include unexpected changes to site content, new unknown user accounts, suspicious files on your server, and unusual site slowdowns. If you suspect your site has been compromised, conduct a thorough review of your site's files and databases, and consider using a reputable security plugin to scan for malicious activity.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to Link Whisper Free that I can use?

Are there alternative plugins to Link Whisper Free that I can use? If you're looking for alternatives to Link Whisper Free for internal linking, several other WordPress plugins offer similar functionality. Some popular options include Internal Link Juicer, Yoast SEO Premium, and Interlinks Manager. Before choosing an alternative, ensure it's well-maintained and regularly updated for security and compatibility.

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

What steps can I take to improve the overall security of my WordPress site? Improving your WordPress site's security involves several key steps: keeping all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core updated; using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts; implementing a reliable security plugin; regularly backing up your site; and employing a web application firewall (WAF) for added protection. Staying informed about common vulnerabilities and security best practices is also crucial.

Q: Why is it important to have contributor-level access or higher to exploit this vulnerability?

Why is it important to have contributor-level access or higher to exploit this vulnerability? The requirement for contributor-level access or higher to exploit CVE-2024-2693 is significant because it limits the pool of potential attackers to those who have been granted a certain level of trust and permissions on the WordPress site. However, this also underscores the importance of carefully managing user roles and permissions, as even users with legitimate access can inadvertently or maliciously introduce vulnerabilities.

Q: What should I do if I've never updated a WordPress plugin before?

What should I do if I've never updated a WordPress plugin before? If you've never updated a WordPress plugin before, the process is straightforward. From your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Updates' section or directly to the 'Plugins' section. WordPress will notify you of available updates for your plugins. Simply click the 'Update Now' link next to the plugin you wish to update. For a safer approach, consider backing up your site before applying updates, especially if you're updating multiple components at once.

By Your WP Guy | March 26, 2024

Plugin Name: Link Whisper Free

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: link-whisper
Software Status: Active
Software Author: linkwhspr
Software Downloads: 449,941
Active Installs: 30,000
Last Updated: March 26, 2024
Patched Versions: 0.7.2
Affected Versions: <= 0.7.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Link Whisper Free <= 0.7.1 Authenticated (Contributor+) PHP Object Injection
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
CVE: CVE-2024-2693
CVSS Score: 8.8
Publicly Published: March 26, 2024
Researcher: Francesco Carlucci
Description: The Link Whisper Free plugin for WordPress contains a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 0.7.1, where it fails to securely handle the deserialization of untrusted input in the 'mfn-page-items' post meta value. This flaw allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject malicious PHP objects. Although the plugin itself lacks a Property-Oriented Programming (POP) chain, the presence of other vulnerable plugins or themes could escalate this to more severe consequences, including arbitrary file deletion, sensitive data exposure, or code execution.

Summary:

The Link Whisper Free plugin, integral for WordPress sites focusing on enhancing internal linking automatically, has been identified to contain a significant security flaw in versions up to 0.7.1. This vulnerability, centered around PHP Object Injection, could potentially lead to severe site compromises under specific conditions. The issue has been resolved in the latest version, 0.7.2.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability was spotlighted by researcher Francesco Carlucci, revealing the plugin's inadequacy in handling serialized data. The potential for exploitation hinges on the presence of a suitable POP chain, possibly introduced through other components within the WordPress installation. The high CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the severity and potential impact of this vulnerability, underscoring the necessity for immediate remedial action.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are urged to update their Link Whisper Free plugin to version 0.7.2 without delay.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly review your site for unusual behavior or unauthorized modifications, which might suggest exploitation.
Alternate Plugins: Considering the nature of this vulnerability, users may evaluate alternative link management plugins as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: Maintaining the latest versions of all WordPress components is crucial in defending against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift resolution of this vulnerability by the Link Whisper Free development team exemplifies the critical importance of ongoing vigilance and prompt updates in the realm of WordPress site management. To secure WordPress installations against potential threats, users must ensure that they have upgraded to version 0.7.2 or later of the Link Whisper Free plugin.

References:

Detailed Report:

In our digital world, the security of online platforms is paramount, yet often overlooked until a breach occurs. A recent reminder of this vulnerability came with the discovery of a significant security flaw in the WordPress plugin, Link Whisper Free. Designed to enhance website interconnectivity through intelligent internal linking, this plugin is a favorite among small business owners for its ease of use and powerful functionality. However, the revelation of a critical vulnerability within its codebase has brought to light the ever-present need for vigilance in our digital defenses.

About Link Whisper Free:

Link Whisper Free has been instrumental in optimizing internal linking for WordPress sites, boasting over 449,941 downloads and 30,000 active installations. Its user-friendly interface and AI-driven suggestions have made it a go-to solution for enhancing website SEO and user navigation. Developed by linkwhspr, the plugin's last update was on March 26, 2024, bringing it to version 0.7.2 in response to the discovered vulnerability.

Uncovering the Vulnerability:

The security flaw, tagged as CVE-2024-2693, was a PHP Object Injection vulnerability present in versions up to and including 0.7.1. This issue arose from the plugin's handling of the 'mfn-page-items' post meta value, allowing those with contributor-level access to inject harmful PHP objects. While the plugin itself did not contain a direct Property-Oriented Programming (POP) chain, the presence of other susceptible plugins or themes could escalate the threat to more dire outcomes, such as data breaches or unauthorized code execution.

Potential Risks and Impacts:

The implications of this vulnerability cannot be overstated. For small business owners, a compromised website can lead to significant data loss, erosion of customer trust, and potential financial liabilities. In a landscape where digital presence is often synonymous with business reputation, such security breaches can have lasting impacts.

Remediation and Prevention:

In response to this discovery, the developers of Link Whisper Free swiftly released an update, version 0.7.2, patching the vulnerability. Users of the plugin are urged to update immediately to this latest version to secure their sites. Beyond this immediate step, it's essential to adopt a proactive approach to website maintenance, regularly checking for updates and being aware of any security advisories related to active plugins.

History of Vulnerabilities:

It's noteworthy that this is not the first vulnerability found in Link Whisper Free, with three previous issues reported since May 10, 2023. This history underscores the importance of continuous monitoring and updating of all software components in a WordPress ecosystem.

Staying Ahead of Vulnerabilities:

For small business owners, the digital upkeep of a WordPress site might seem daunting amidst myriad other responsibilities. However, the security of your online platform is integral to your business's credibility and continuity. Leveraging automated tools for updates and security checks can alleviate some of the burdens, but a basic awareness of digital security practices is indispensable. Establishing a routine for digital maintenance, much like any other aspect of your business, can ensure that your online presence remains robust and secure.

In conclusion, the discovery of vulnerabilities like that in Link Whisper Free serves as a critical reminder of the dynamic nature of digital security. Staying informed and responsive to updates and security practices is not just about protecting data; it's about safeguarding the trust your customers place in your digital doorstep. For small business owners, the integrity of your WordPress site is a cornerstone of your digital presence and deserves the same level of attention and care as any other facet of your business.

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.

Link Whisper Free Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) PHP Object Injection – CVE-2024-2693 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is a PHP Object Injection vulnerability?

PHP Object Injection is a type of security flaw that occurs when user-supplied input is not properly sanitized before being passed to the unserialize() PHP function. This vulnerability can allow attackers to manipulate the application's logic, alter application data, or execute arbitrary PHP code on the server. It's a serious issue because it can lead to a full compromise of the application and the server hosting it.

How does the CVE-2024-2693 vulnerability affect Link Whisper Free?

The CVE-2024-2693 vulnerability in Link Whisper Free allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions to inject malicious PHP objects into the WordPress site. This could potentially lead to unauthorized actions, such as deleting files, exposing sensitive information, or executing harmful code, especially if a suitable Property-Oriented Programming (POP) chain exists within the site's ecosystem. The risk is particularly high if other vulnerable plugins or themes are installed.

What is the significance of the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability report?

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) score provides a standardized way to assess the severity of a security vulnerability. The score of 8.8 for CVE-2024-2693 indicates a high level of severity, suggesting that the vulnerability poses a significant risk and should be addressed promptly. A high CVSS score typically means that the vulnerability can have a widespread impact and is relatively easy for attackers to exploit.

How can I update Link Whisper Free to the patched version?

To update Link Whisper Free, log into your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and locate Link Whisper Free in your list of installed plugins. If an update is available, you should see an 'Update Now' link. Clicking this link will initiate the update process, installing the latest version of the plugin that includes the security patch for CVE-2024-2693.

What should I do if I can't update my Link Whisper Free plugin immediately?

If you're unable to update Link Whisper Free immediately, consider temporarily deactivating the plugin until you can apply the update. While this may temporarily affect the functionality provided by the plugin, it's a crucial step in safeguarding your site against potential exploitation. It's also advisable to review your site's user roles to ensure that only trusted users have contributor-level access or higher.

How can I tell if my WordPress site has been compromised?

Signs that your WordPress site may have been compromised include unexpected changes to site content, new unknown user accounts, suspicious files on your server, and unusual site slowdowns. If you suspect your site has been compromised, conduct a thorough review of your site's files and databases, and consider using a reputable security plugin to scan for malicious activity.

Are there alternative plugins to Link Whisper Free that I can use?

If you're looking for alternatives to Link Whisper Free for internal linking, several other WordPress plugins offer similar functionality. Some popular options include Internal Link Juicer, Yoast SEO Premium, and Interlinks Manager. Before choosing an alternative, ensure it's well-maintained and regularly updated for security and compatibility.

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

Improving your WordPress site's security involves several key steps: keeping all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core updated; using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts; implementing a reliable security plugin; regularly backing up your site; and employing a web application firewall (WAF) for added protection. Staying informed about common vulnerabilities and security best practices is also crucial.

Why is it important to have contributor-level access or higher to exploit this vulnerability?

The requirement for contributor-level access or higher to exploit CVE-2024-2693 is significant because it limits the pool of potential attackers to those who have been granted a certain level of trust and permissions on the WordPress site. However, this also underscores the importance of carefully managing user roles and permissions, as even users with legitimate access can inadvertently or maliciously introduce vulnerabilities.

What should I do if I've never updated a WordPress plugin before?

If you've never updated a WordPress plugin before, the process is straightforward. From your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Updates' section or directly to the 'Plugins' section. WordPress will notify you of available updates for your plugins. Simply click the 'Update Now' link next to the plugin you wish to update. For a safer approach, consider backing up your site before applying updates, especially if you're updating multiple components at once.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2693, cybersecurity awareness, Digital Security, Link Whisper Free, PHP object injection, Plugin Update, small business website management, vulnerability patching, Website Maintenance, wordpress security