Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid Vulnerability – Visual Drag and Drop Editor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability?

What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability? A Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability is a type of security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored and executed when other users access the affected pages. This can lead to a variety of harmful outcomes, including data theft, session hijacking, and the spread of malware. In the context of WordPress and plugins like the Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid, this vulnerability can make websites a conduit for executing malicious scripts on the browsers of unsuspecting visitors. Ensuring plugins are up-to-date and following security best practices are key steps in mitigating such risks.

Q: How do I check if my version of the Post and Page Builder plugin is vulnerable?

How do I check if my version of the Post and Page Builder plugin is vulnerable? To check your plugin version, access your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Locate the Post and Page Builder plugin in your list of installed plugins and check the version number displayed alongside it. If your plugin version is 1.26.2 or lower, your site is at risk and you should update to version 1.26.3 or higher immediately. The updated version includes a patch that fixes the vulnerability.

Q: How can I update my Post and Page Builder plugin?

How can I update my Post and Page Builder plugin? Updating your plugin is straightforward. In your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Plugins' section where you'll see a list of your installed plugins. If an update is available for the Post and Page Builder plugin, you'll see a notification beneath it with an option to update now. Click the update link, and WordPress will automatically download and install the update. It's a good practice to back up your website before making updates, to avoid any unintended changes or data loss.

Q: What are the potential risks of not updating the plugin?

What are the potential risks of not updating the plugin? Failing to update the Post and Page Builder plugin to the latest version leaves your site vulnerable to Stored XSS attacks. Attackers could exploit this to execute arbitrary scripts in the browsers of your site's visitors, potentially leading to stolen data, compromised user accounts, and unauthorized access to your site's admin features. The reputational damage from such security breaches can be significant, leading to loss of trust among your users and potential financial losses. Thus, keeping your plugins updated is crucial for website security.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins to Post and Page Builder that I should consider?

Are there any alternative plugins to Post and Page Builder that I should consider? While the Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid is a popular choice for many, there are numerous alternative page builder plugins available for WordPress. Options like Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Divi Builder offer similar drag-and-drop page building capabilities and are regularly updated for security and functionality. When considering alternatives, assess their features, ease of use, compatibility with your theme, and their security track record. It's also beneficial to read user reviews and ratings in the WordPress plugin repository.

Q: What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised?

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised? If you suspect your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability or any other, immediately update all out-of-date plugins and themes. Change all WordPress account passwords, especially for accounts with administrative access, and review your site for any unfamiliar or unauthorized content. Consider employing a security plugin that can scan your site for known vulnerabilities and malicious code. If the issue persists, seeking assistance from a cybersecurity professional who specializes in WordPress can help identify and resolve the security breach.

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 WordPress plugin vulnerabilities, subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and forums that focus on WordPress security. The WordPress Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri Blog are valuable resources for updates on the latest security vulnerabilities and patches. Regularly visiting the WordPress Plugin Repository to check for updates and reading the change logs can also provide insights into security fixes and other improvements.

Q: Can updating the plugin affect my website's design or functionality?

Can updating the plugin affect my website's design or functionality? While most plugin updates are designed to be seamless and not affect your site's functionality, there's always a small risk that an update could cause issues, especially if there are compatibility conflicts with other plugins or your theme. To mitigate this risk, it's advisable to perform updates on a staging site first, if possible. This allows you to test the update in a safe environment and ensure that it doesn't adversely affect your site.

Q: What is the CVSS score, and why is it important?

What is the CVSS score, and why is it important? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) provides a standardized way to assess the severity of computer system security vulnerabilities. Scores range from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater severity. The CVSS score is important because it helps website owners and administrators understand the potential impact of a vulnerability and prioritize their response. For instance, a high CVSS score would indicate a more severe vulnerability that requires immediate attention.

Q: How frequently should I update my WordPress plugins and themes?

How frequently should I update my WordPress plugins and themes? For optimal security and performance, it's recommended to check for updates to your WordPress plugins and themes at least once a week. Most vulnerabilities are quickly addressed by developers once discovered, so regular updates can significantly reduce the risk of your site being compromised. WordPress also offers automatic update features for plugins and themes, which can be a convenient option for maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention. However, ensure you have regular backups of your site, as updates can occasionally cause conflicts or issues that may require a rollback.

By Your WP Guy | March 25, 2024

Plugin Name: Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid – Visual Drag and Drop Editor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: post-and-page-builder
Software Status: Active
Software Author: BoldGrid
Software Downloads: 1,381,114
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: March 25, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.26.3
Affected Versions: <= 1.26.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid – Visual Drag and Drop Editor Plugin <= 1.26.2
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
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 25, 2024
Researcher: Phill Sav (Savphill)
Description: The Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through its Block HTML functionality, affecting all versions up to and including 1.26.2. This vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allowing authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to insert arbitrary web scripts that execute upon page access by any user.

Summary:

The Post and Page Builder plugin, an essential tool for WordPress site customization, harbors a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.26.2, facilitating stored cross-site scripting through Block HTML. This vulnerability has been effectively addressed in the latest version, 1.26.3.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by security researcher Phill Sav, this vulnerability places websites at risk by enabling attackers to inject harmful scripts into web pages, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and other malicious activities. The exploit occurs within the Block HTML functionality of the plugin, where inadequate input sanitization and output escaping provide an avenue for script injection. This not only compromises the security of the website but also endangers the data and privacy of its users.

Advice for Users:

To mitigate this risk, users of the Post and Page Builder plugin are urged to update to the patched version, 1.26.3, without delay. Additionally, website administrators should review their sites for any signs of unauthorized activities or content alterations, especially if the vulnerable versions of the plugin were previously in use. While the patched version restores security, exploring alternative plugins with similar capabilities could serve as a precautionary measure. Above all, maintaining the latest versions of all WordPress plugins is critical for ensuring website security.

Conclusion:

The swift response by BoldGrid to address this vulnerability highlights the crucial role of timely software updates in maintaining website security. Users are advised to confirm that their installations of the Post and Page Builder plugin are updated to version 1.26.3 or later, securing their WordPress sites against potential exploits associated with this vulnerability.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the digital realm where WordPress powers a significant portion of the web, plugins like the Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid are indispensable tools for crafting engaging websites. However, the recent uncovering of a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in this widely-used plugin serves as a stark reminder of the continuous battle for cybersecurity. This vulnerability, identified in versions up to and including 1.26.2, underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software to safeguard online assets against potential threats.

Plugin Overview

The Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid is celebrated for its user-friendly, visual drag-and-drop interface, enabling site owners to construct and customize their pages with ease. Boasting over 1.3 million downloads and 80,000 active installations, its role in the WordPress ecosystem is undeniably significant. Authored by BoldGrid and last updated on March 25, 2024, this plugin's recent versions have addressed crucial security concerns to enhance user trust and safety.

Vulnerability Insights

The vulnerability in question, stemming from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the plugin's Block HTML functionality, allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject harmful scripts. These scripts could execute arbitrary code whenever a user accesses an affected page, posing risks such as data breaches, unauthorized access, and the potential compromise of entire websites. Highlighted by researcher Phill Sav, this vulnerability, although without a CVE identifier, carries a CVSS score of 6.4, signaling a significant security risk.

Potential Risks and Impacts

The implications of such a vulnerability are far-reaching, particularly for small business owners who rely on their websites as primary points of customer interaction and commerce. A compromised website can lead to loss of sensitive customer data, erosion of user trust, and significant damage to the business's reputation. In worst-case scenarios, it could also result in regulatory penalties, especially if personal data is involved.

Remediation and Proactive Measures

In response to this vulnerability, BoldGrid swiftly released a patched version of the plugin, 1.26.3, effectively mitigating the risk. Users of the plugin are strongly encouraged to update to this latest version immediately to secure their sites. Furthermore, regular site audits and security checks can help identify and rectify potential vulnerabilities, while exploring alternative plugins could provide additional layers of security.

Navigating Past Vulnerabilities

It's noteworthy that this isn't the first security challenge faced by the Post and Page Builder plugin, with previous vulnerabilities reported since August 22, 2023. These instances highlight the evolving nature of cybersecurity threats and the imperative for continuous vigilance and updates.

Conclusion

For small business owners, the digital space offers immense opportunities but also brings with it the responsibility of ensuring cybersecurity. The recent vulnerability in the Post and Page Builder plugin by BoldGrid reinforces the need for regular software updates as a fundamental practice. Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities and adopting a proactive stance towards website security can protect your business from unforeseen threats, ensuring that your digital presence remains secure and reliable for your customers. In the fast-paced world of digital business, making time for these critical updates isn't just a best practice—it's a necessity for safeguarding your digital assets and maintaining the trust of those who rely on your 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.

Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid Vulnerability – Visual Drag and Drop Editor – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability?

A Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability is a type of security flaw that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into a web application, which are then stored and executed when other users access the affected pages. This can lead to a variety of harmful outcomes, including data theft, session hijacking, and the spread of malware.

In the context of WordPress and plugins like the Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid, this vulnerability can make websites a conduit for executing malicious scripts on the browsers of unsuspecting visitors. Ensuring plugins are up-to-date and following security best practices are key steps in mitigating such risks.

How do I check if my version of the Post and Page Builder plugin is vulnerable?

To check your plugin version, access your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Locate the Post and Page Builder plugin in your list of installed plugins and check the version number displayed alongside it.

If your plugin version is 1.26.2 or lower, your site is at risk and you should update to version 1.26.3 or higher immediately. The updated version includes a patch that fixes the vulnerability.

How can I update my Post and Page Builder plugin?

Updating your plugin is straightforward. In your WordPress dashboard, go to the 'Plugins' section where you'll see a list of your installed plugins. If an update is available for the Post and Page Builder plugin, you'll see a notification beneath it with an option to update now.

Click the update link, and WordPress will automatically download and install the update. It's a good practice to back up your website before making updates, to avoid any unintended changes or data loss.

What are the potential risks of not updating the plugin?

Failing to update the Post and Page Builder plugin to the latest version leaves your site vulnerable to Stored XSS attacks. Attackers could exploit this to execute arbitrary scripts in the browsers of your site's visitors, potentially leading to stolen data, compromised user accounts, and unauthorized access to your site's admin features.

The reputational damage from such security breaches can be significant, leading to loss of trust among your users and potential financial losses. Thus, keeping your plugins updated is crucial for website security.

Are there any alternative plugins to Post and Page Builder that I should consider?

While the Post and Page Builder by BoldGrid is a popular choice for many, there are numerous alternative page builder plugins available for WordPress. Options like Elementor, Beaver Builder, and Divi Builder offer similar drag-and-drop page building capabilities and are regularly updated for security and functionality.

When considering alternatives, assess their features, ease of use, compatibility with your theme, and their security track record. It's also beneficial to read user reviews and ratings in the WordPress plugin repository.

What should I do if I suspect my website has been compromised?

If you suspect your website has been compromised due to this vulnerability or any other, immediately update all out-of-date plugins and themes. Change all WordPress account passwords, especially for accounts with administrative access, and review your site for any unfamiliar or unauthorized content.

Consider employing a security plugin that can scan your site for known vulnerabilities and malicious code. If the issue persists, seeking assistance from a cybersecurity professional who specializes in WordPress can help identify and resolve the security breach.

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

To stay informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities, subscribe to security blogs, newsletters, and forums that focus on WordPress security. The WordPress Vulnerability Database, Wordfence, and Sucuri Blog are valuable resources for updates on the latest security vulnerabilities and patches.

Regularly visiting the WordPress Plugin Repository to check for updates and reading the change logs can also provide insights into security fixes and other improvements.

Can updating the plugin affect my website's design or functionality?

While most plugin updates are designed to be seamless and not affect your site's functionality, there's always a small risk that an update could cause issues, especially if there are compatibility conflicts with other plugins or your theme.

To mitigate this risk, it's advisable to perform updates on a staging site first, if possible. This allows you to test the update in a safe environment and ensure that it doesn't adversely affect your site.

What is the CVSS score, and why is it important?

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) provides a standardized way to assess the severity of computer system security vulnerabilities. Scores range from 0 to 10, with higher scores indicating greater severity.

The CVSS score is important because it helps website owners and administrators understand the potential impact of a vulnerability and prioritize their response. For instance, a high CVSS score would indicate a more severe vulnerability that requires immediate attention.

How frequently should I update my WordPress plugins and themes?

For optimal security and performance, it's recommended to check for updates to your WordPress plugins and themes at least once a week. Most vulnerabilities are quickly addressed by developers once discovered, so regular updates can significantly reduce the risk of your site being compromised.

WordPress also offers automatic update features for plugins and themes, which can be a convenient option for maintaining the latest versions without manual intervention. However, ensure you have regular backups of your site, as updates can occasionally cause conflicts or issues that may require a rollback.

Share this post:

X (Twitter) Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Pocket SMS

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged BoldGrid, cybersecurity for small businesses, Digital Security, online safety., Plugin Updates, Post and Page Builder vulnerability, Secure WordPress Plugins, Website Protection, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability