Popup Builder by OptinMonster Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-4045 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: Popup Builder by OptinMonster – WordPress Popups for Optins, Email Newsletters and Lead Generation
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: optinmonster
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: optinmonster
- Software Downloads: 105,301,858
- Active Installs: 1,000,000
- Last Updated: June 11, 2024
- Patched Versions: <= 2.16.1
- Affected Versions: 2.16.2
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: Popup Builder by OptinMonster – WordPress Popups for Optins, Email Newsletters and Lead Generation <= 2.16.1
- Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-4045
- CVSS Score: 6.4
- Publicly Published: May 24, 2024
- Researcher: wesley
- Description: The Popup Builder by OptinMonster plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the ‘campaign_id’ parameter in versions up to, and including, 2.16.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level permissions and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Summary:
The Popup Builder by OptinMonster plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.16.1 that allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts via the ‘campaign_id’ parameter. This vulnerability has been patched in version 2.16.1.
Detailed Overview:
The vulnerability in the Popup Builder by OptinMonster plugin, discovered by researcher wesley, involves insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, leading to stored cross-site scripting (XSS). This type of vulnerability allows attackers with contributor-level permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages. These scripts will execute whenever a user accesses the compromised page, potentially leading to malicious actions such as data theft or site defacement.
The vulnerability was publicly published on May 24, 2024, and affects all versions of the plugin up to 2.16.1. The developers promptly addressed this issue, releasing a patched version (<= 2.16.1) to mitigate the risk. Users are strongly advised to update to this patched version to protect their sites from potential exploitation.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 2.16.1 or later.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review your site’s pages for any unusual scripts or behaviors, and check for any unexpected changes to the content.
- 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 2.16.1 or later to secure their WordPress installations. Regularly updating plugins and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities are critical steps in maintaining a secure website environment.
References:
Detailed Report:
Introduction:
Keeping your website up to date is crucial for maintaining security, performance, and user trust. A recent vulnerability in the Popup Builder by OptinMonster plugin for WordPress underscores this necessity. This widely-used plugin, with over a million active installs and more than 105 million downloads, was found to have a significant security flaw. Identified as CVE-2024-4045, this vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages, potentially leading to malicious actions such as data theft or site defacement.
Risks and Potential Impacts:
If exploited, this vulnerability can allow attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of the affected website. This could lead to data breaches, exposure of sensitive information, and potential loss of user trust. The stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability can be particularly damaging as it enables persistent attacks that affect all users who access the compromised pages.
Previous Vulnerabilities:
The Popup Builder by OptinMonster plugin has faced security issues in the past, with five previous vulnerabilities reported since January 14, 2016. This history underscores the need for continuous vigilance and regular updates. Plugin developers typically respond quickly to such issues, but users must also be proactive in applying updates.
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 the foundation for trust with your customers. Ensuring that you are running the latest versions of your plugins, like Popup Builder by OptinMonster, helps safeguard your site against potential threats and demonstrates your commitment to providing a safe and reliable online experience.
Staying Secure
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