The Events Calendar Vulnerability – Missing Authorization to Authenticated (Contributor+) Arbitrary Events Access – CVE-2024-1295 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: The Events Calendar
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: the-events-calendar
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: theeventscalendar
- Software Downloads: 57,657,454
- Active Installs: 700,000
- Last Updated: June 11, 2024
- Patched Versions: <= 6.4.0
- Affected Versions: 6.4.0.1
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: The Events Calendar Free & Pro <= 6.4.0
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:N/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-1295
- CVSS Score: 4.3
- Publicly Published: May 24, 2024
- Researcher: Scott Kingsley Clark
- Description: Multiple plugins and/or themes for WordPress are vulnerable to unauthorized access of data due to insufficient capability checks and restrictions on a function in various versions. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Contributor-level access and above, to access arbitrary events that they should not have access to.
Summary:
The Events Calendar plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 6.4.0.1 that allows authenticated attackers with Contributor-level access to access arbitrary events that they should not have access to. This vulnerability has been patched in version 6.4.0.
Detailed Overview:
The vulnerability in The Events Calendar plugin, discovered by researcher Scott Kingsley Clark, involves insufficient capability checks and restrictions on a function, which can lead to unauthorized data access. The specific issue is that authenticated users with Contributor-level access can gain access to events they should not be able to see. The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 4.3, indicating a medium severity risk.
The vulnerability was publicly published on May 24, 2024, and affects all versions of The Events Calendar plugin up to 6.4.0.1. The developers promptly addressed this issue, releasing a patched version (<= 6.4.0) to mitigate the risk.
Users of the plugin are advised to update to the latest version immediately to protect their sites from potential exploitation. The risk of unauthorized data access could lead to information leaks and other security concerns if left unpatched.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 6.4.0 or later.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review your site's event logs for any unusual activity or unauthorized access.
- 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.
Conclusion:
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 6.4.0 or later to secure their WordPress installations.
References:
Detailed Report:
Introduction:
In the dynamic world of website management, keeping your site up-to-date is paramount, not only for functionality but also for security. Recently, a significant vulnerability has been discovered in The Events Calendar plugin for WordPress, a widely-used tool with over 700,000 active installs and more than 57 million downloads. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-1295, highlights the ongoing risks posed by outdated software and the critical importance of regular updates. For small business owners who may not have the time to stay on top of such issues, understanding these vulnerabilities and taking prompt action is crucial to protecting your online presence.
Risks and Potential Impacts:
The specific issue with The Events Calendar plugin is that authenticated users with Contributor-level access can gain unauthorized access to events they should not be able to see. This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized data access, which in turn could result in information leaks and other security concerns. Given the medium severity risk (CVSS score of 4.3), it is essential to address this issue promptly to avoid potential exploitation.
Previous Vulnerabilities:
The Events Calendar plugin has faced security issues in the past, with nine previous vulnerabilities reported since April 25, 2016. This history underscores the importance of remaining vigilant and proactive about updates and security measures.
Conclusion:
The prompt response from the plugin developers to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. For small business owners, staying on top of security vulnerabilities might seem daunting, but it is essential to protect your website and your customers' data. Regularly updating your plugins, monitoring for unusual activity, and considering alternative solutions when necessary can go a long way in maintaining a secure online presence.
Remember, a secure website is a foundation for trust with your customers. Ensuring that you are running the latest versions of your plugins, like The Events Calendar, helps safeguard your site against potential threats and demonstrates your commitment to providing a safe and reliable online experience.
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.
