Newsletter Vulnerability – Cross-Site Request Forgery – CVE-2024-31434 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: Newsletter – Send awesome emails from WordPress

Key Information:

• Software Type: Plugin
• Software Slug: newsletter
• Software Status: Active
• Software Author: satollo
• Software Downloads: 25,010,511
• Active Installs: 300,000
• Last Updated: April 24, 2024
• Patched Versions: 8.0.7
• Affected Versions: <= 8.0.6

Vulnerability Details:

• Name: Newsletter <= 8.0.6
• Title: Cross-Site Request Forgery
• Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N
• CVE: CVE-2024-31434
• CVSS Score: 4.3
• Publicly Published: April 10, 2024
• Researcher: Dhabaleshwar Das
• Description: The Newsletter plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Cross-Site Request Forgery in versions up to, and including, 8.0.6. This is due to missing or incorrect nonce validation in the main/welcome.php file. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to trigger test emails via a forged request granted they can trick a site administrator into performing an action such as clicking on a link.

Summary:

The Newsletter plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 8.0.6 that allows for Cross-Site Request Forgery due to inadequate nonce validation. This vulnerability has been patched in version 8.0.7.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in the Newsletter plugin originates from incorrect nonce validation in the main/welcome.php file, allowing for Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF). CSRF vulnerabilities typically allow an attacker to execute unwanted actions on a web application in which they are currently authenticated. In this case, the vulnerability allows attackers to trigger test emails by forging requests, which could be executed if a site administrator is tricked into clicking a malicious link. The researcher, Dhabaleshwar Das, noted the importance of proper nonce validation as a security practice. The risk is more pronounced due to the high number of active installs, making it crucial for administrators to update to the patched version promptly.

Advice for Users:

• Immediate Action: Update to the patched version, 8.0.7, immediately.
• Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor email logs for unusual activity that could indicate exploitation of this vulnerability.
• Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, users might still consider similar plugins as a precaution, particularly if update and patch management policies are not robust.
• 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 8.0.7 or later to secure their WordPress installations.

References:

• Wordfence Threat Intelligence on Newsletter CSRF
• Wordfence Vulnerabilities

Detailed Report: 

In today's digital landscape, the functionality and security of your website can significantly impact your business. WordPress plugins, while essential for website customization and functionality, also carry potential security risks if they're not kept up-to-date. The recent discovery of a serious security flaw in the widely used "Newsletter – Send awesome emails from WordPress" plugin underscores the critical nature of regular software updates.

About the Newsletter Plugin

The Newsletter plugin is a popular choice among WordPress users for sending emails directly from their websites. With over 25 million downloads and active installations on 300,000 sites, its impact is extensive. Created by the developer 'satollo', the plugin has been a reliable tool for creating engaging email newsletters. Despite its popularity, the plugin has had its share of vulnerabilities, with 12 security issues reported since 2013. The most recent issue was patched in the version released on April 24, 2024.

Current Vulnerability Details

The latest vulnerability, cataloged under CVE-2024-31434, is a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) found in versions up to and including 8.0.6. This security flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to forge requests. Due to inadequate nonce validation in the main/welcome.php file, attackers can potentially manipulate a site administrator into triggering unwanted actions, such as sending test emails. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on April 10, 2024, and carries a CVSS score of 4.3, indicating a moderate level of risk.

Risks and Potential Impacts

The CSRF vulnerability poses significant risks, particularly for business owners who use the Newsletter plugin to communicate with their customers. An exploited vulnerability could lead to unauthorized actions, potentially damaging the reputation and operational integrity of a business. The risk is heightened by the plugin's high number of installations and its role in managing sensitive communication.

How to Remediate the Vulnerability

To address this vulnerability, users should immediately update to the patched version 8.0.7. Website administrators should also:

• Check email logs for any unusual activity that may suggest exploitation.
• Consider alternative plugins if consistent updates and security practices are not observed.
• Regularly update all WordPress plugins to their latest versions to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Overview of Previous Vulnerabilities

Since its inception, the Newsletter plugin has encountered various security issues, with 12 vulnerabilities reported. These ranged from minor bugs to more severe security threats, reflecting the ongoing challenges faced by digital tools in adapting to evolving cybersecurity threats.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Vigilance

For small business owners managing a WordPress website, the importance of vigilance in software updates cannot be overstressed. Security vulnerabilities, like the one recently identified in the Newsletter plugin, can have far-reaching consequences. Proactive management of these updates is crucial in safeguarding your digital assets against potential threats. The prompt resolution of issues by developers, as seen with the Newsletter plugin, is commendable, but the responsibility also lies with users to ensure their website remains secure. Staying informed and responsive to update alerts is key to maintaining a secure and reliable online 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.