Premium Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘arrow_style’ – CVE-2024-3647 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-3647?

What is CVE-2024-3647? CVE-2024-3647 is a designation for a security vulnerability found in the Premium Addons for Elementor WordPress plugin. This specific issue is a type of Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that was present in versions up to 4.10.28 of the plugin. It allowed authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts via the 'arrow_style' parameter in the plugin's post ticker widget. The CVE system provides a reference method for publicly known information-security vulnerabilities and exposures. The identifier CVE-2024-3647 helps users and administrators find detailed information about specific security vulnerabilities, ensuring that they can assess risks and implement appropriate remediations or patches effectively.

Q: How do I update Premium Addons for Elementor to secure my site?

How do I update Premium Addons for Elementor to secure my site? Updating your Premium Addons for Elementor plugin is straightforward. Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the Plugins section, and you will see a notification under the plugin if an update is available. Click on the update link to initiate the process. It’s crucial to always back up your website before performing updates to avoid any data loss in case of update errors. After updating, verify that everything on your site functions correctly. Sometimes updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes, so checking the website’s functionality after updates is a wise precaution. Regular updates not only fix security issues but also add new features and improve existing ones.

Q: Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?

Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely? Using older versions of any software, including WordPress plugins like Premium Addons for Elementor, is not recommended. Older versions may contain security vulnerabilities that are exploited by attackers, such as the XSS vulnerability found in versions up to 4.10.28. These vulnerabilities can compromise your website's security, leading to potential data breaches or other cyber attacks. If you cannot update to the latest version immediately, ensure that you have robust security measures in place, such as security plugins and firewalls. However, these measures are not substitutes for updating; they are merely temporary safeguards. The most effective way to secure your website is to keep all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core up to date.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a web security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which only affects users who click on a malicious link, stored XSS affects any users who view the compromised page. It is considered more dangerous because the malicious code is saved on the server and can affect a larger number of users. Stored XSS can be used by attackers to perform a variety of malicious actions, such as stealing cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information that can be used to impersonate the victim. It can also alter the presented content in a browser or redirect visitors to malicious websites, compromising both user and organizational security.

Q: What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins regularly?

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins regularly? Not updating WordPress plugins can expose your website to security vulnerabilities, which can be exploited by hackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or inject malicious content. Such security breaches can damage your reputation, lead to loss of customer trust, and even incur legal consequences if customer data is compromised. Additionally, outdated plugins can cause compatibility issues with the latest WordPress updates and other plugins, potentially leading to website downtime or functional issues. This can affect user experience and SEO rankings negatively. Regular updates help in fixing bugs, improving performance, and adding new features, thereby maintaining the overall health and security of your website.

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

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised? To check if your WordPress site has been compromised, start by looking for unusual activities. These can include unexpected changes to your website, new administrative accounts you did not create, suspicious files in your server directories, or unexpected redirects when visiting your site. You can also use security plugins that scan for malware and monitor for unusual activities. Another effective method is to review your website's access logs for any unauthorized access or unusual requests. If you suspect that your site has been compromised, it is crucial to act quickly by investigating the breach, removing any malicious content, and strengthening your site’s security measures. Consulting a cybersecurity professional can provide expert guidance through this process.

Q: What should I do if I find a security vulnerability in a plugin?

What should I do if I find a security vulnerability in a plugin? If you discover a security vulnerability in a plugin, the responsible course of action is to report it to the plugin developers immediately, rather than disclosing it publicly. This approach is part of responsible disclosure, which allows the developers to patch the vulnerability before it is widely known and potentially exploited. You can contact the developers directly through their official website or support channels. Provide them with detailed information about the vulnerability, including how it can be exploited, and if possible, suggest a potential fix. Once the vulnerability has been addressed, it’s important to update the plugin to protect your website from potential attacks.

Q: Are there tools or services that can help manage WordPress security?

Are there tools or services that can help manage WordPress security? Yes, there are numerous tools and services designed to help manage WordPress security. Security plugins like Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security provide comprehensive solutions that include malware scanning, firewalls, and post-hack security actions. These plugins help in actively blocking threats and monitoring your site for potential security breaches. Additionally, managed WordPress hosting services such as WP Engine, Kinsta, and Flywheel offer enhanced security features, including automatic updates, daily backups, and advanced support, tailored specifically for WordPress sites. These services can greatly reduce the burden of security management, especially for business owners with limited technical expertise.

Q: What are the best practices for maintaining WordPress security?

What are the best practices for maintaining WordPress security? Maintaining WordPress security involves a multi-faceted approach. Regularly update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins to ensure you have the latest security patches. Use strong, unique passwords for your WordPress admin, FTP accounts, and database. Employ two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security. Additionally, limit login attempts to prevent brute force attacks, use security plugins to monitor and block malicious activities, and ensure that your hosting environment is secure. Regularly back up your website so you can quickly restore it in case of an attack. Educate yourself and your team about the latest security threats and best practices to stay prepared.

Q: How can I educate myself about WordPress security?

How can I educate myself about WordPress security? Educating yourself about WordPress security is crucial for effectively managing your website. Start by following blogs and publications that focus on web security, such as the Wordfence blog, Sucuri blog, and WPBeginner. These platforms often publish articles on the latest security threats, case studies, and best practices. You can also attend webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on WordPress and cybersecurity. Many online courses are available that cover various aspects of WordPress security, from basic best practices to advanced protective strategies. Engaging with the WordPress community through forums and social media can also provide insights and updates about emerging security issues.

By Your WP Guy | April 24, 2024

Plugin Name: Premium Addons for Elementor

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: premium-addons-for-elementor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: leap13
Software Downloads: 31,878,013
Active Installs: 700,000
Last Updated: May 9, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.10.29
Affected Versions: <= 4.10.28

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Premium Addons for Elementor <= 4.10.28
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via 'arrow_style'
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-3647
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: April 24, 2024
Researcher: stealthcopter
Description: The Premium Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's post ticker widget in all versions up to, and including, 4.10.28. This vulnerability arises due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. It allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages, which will execute whenever a user accesses these pages. This vulnerability only affects the premium version of the plugin.

Summary:

The Premium Addons for Elementor plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.10.28 that enables authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to execute malicious scripts through the plugin's post ticker widget. This vulnerability has been patched in version 4.10.29.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in question, discovered by the researcher known as stealthcopter, involves the 'arrow_style' parameter in the post ticker widget, which lacked proper sanitization and escaping mechanisms. This oversight made it possible for attackers to embed harmful scripts that are executed when the page is viewed. The risk here includes unauthorized access to user data, potential website defacement, and other malicious activities facilitated by XSS attacks. The vulnerability has been addressed in the recent update, emphasizing the necessity for immediate upgrades to the patched version.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users should update to version 4.10.29 without delay.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor your site for unusual activities or scripts that seem out of place. Webmaster tools and security plugins can aid in identifying potential compromises.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version resolves this issue, users who are unable to update immediately might consider exploring other reputable plugins that offer similar functionalities as a temporary solution.
Stay Updated: It is crucial to keep all software, especially WordPress and its plugins, updated to the latest versions to minimize security risks.

Conclusion:

The swift action by the developers of Premium Addons for Elementor to release a patch following the discovery of this XSS vulnerability highlights the critical role of maintaining up-to-date software to safeguard digital assets. All users are advised to install the latest version, 4.10.29, to protect their sites from potential security breaches.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today’s interconnected world, the security of your website is as crucial as the locks on your doors. Recent developments within the WordPress community have spotlighted a significant vulnerability in the Premium Addons for Elementor plugin, identified as CVE-2024-3647. This vulnerability underscores the broader implications of software maintenance, emphasizing the need for continual updates and vigilant security practices to safeguard digital assets.

About Premium Addons for Elementor

Premium Addons for Elementor is a widely used plugin that enhances Elementor page builder with additional widgets and features. It boasts a substantial user base with over 700,000 active installs and more than 31 million downloads. The plugin is developed by leap13 and is crucial for many businesses relying on WordPress for their digital presence.

Detailed Vulnerability Analysis

The vulnerability in question, CVE-2024-3647, affects versions up to 4.10.28 of the plugin and involves the 'arrow_style' parameter within the post ticker widget. This parameter lacked proper sanitization and escaping, allowing authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to inject arbitrary web scripts. These scripts could execute on a user's browser, leading to potential unauthorized access and data manipulation.

Risks and Potential Impacts

If exploited, this vulnerability could allow attackers to perform actions such as stealing user session tokens, defacing websites, or redirecting visitors to malicious sites. The potential for damage is significant, considering the high number of active installs. Such actions could compromise not only the security of the website but also the privacy of its users, leading to loss of trust and potential legal consequences.

Remediation and User Advice

To address this vulnerability, the developers released an updated version, 4.10.29, which patches the XSS flaw. Users of the plugin should:

Immediately update to the latest version.
Regularly check and update all WordPress plugins and themes.
Utilize security plugins to monitor and block unusual activities.
Consider regular security audits, especially for business-critical sites.

Historical Context and Recurring Vulnerabilities

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in this plugin. There have been 15 reported vulnerabilities since April 2021, emphasizing the need for ongoing vigilance. Each incident serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of cyber threats and the necessity of regular updates.

Conclusion: The Imperative of Proactive Security Measures

For small business owners, the task of managing a website can be daunting, especially with limited time and resources. However, neglecting cybersecurity can result in severe repercussions. Embracing a proactive approach to software maintenance, prioritizing regular updates, and employing automated tools for security monitoring can significantly mitigate risks. Remember, in the realm of cybersecurity, prevention is always better than cure. By staying informed and prepared, small business owners can not only protect their digital assets but also build trust with their users.

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.

Premium Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘arrow_style’ – CVE-2024-3647 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-3647?

CVE-2024-3647 is a designation for a security vulnerability found in the Premium Addons for Elementor WordPress plugin. This specific issue is a type of Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that was present in versions up to 4.10.28 of the plugin. It allowed authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts via the 'arrow_style' parameter in the plugin's post ticker widget.

The CVE system provides a reference method for publicly known information-security vulnerabilities and exposures. The identifier CVE-2024-3647 helps users and administrators find detailed information about specific security vulnerabilities, ensuring that they can assess risks and implement appropriate remediations or patches effectively.

How do I update Premium Addons for Elementor to secure my site?

Updating your Premium Addons for Elementor plugin is straightforward. Log in to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the Plugins section, and you will see a notification under the plugin if an update is available. Click on the update link to initiate the process. It’s crucial to always back up your website before performing updates to avoid any data loss in case of update errors.

After updating, verify that everything on your site functions correctly. Sometimes updates can cause compatibility issues with other plugins or themes, so checking the website’s functionality after updates is a wise precaution. Regular updates not only fix security issues but also add new features and improve existing ones.

Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?

Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?

Using older versions of any software, including WordPress plugins like Premium Addons for Elementor, is not recommended. Older versions may contain security vulnerabilities that are exploited by attackers, such as the XSS vulnerability found in versions up to 4.10.28. These vulnerabilities can compromise your website's security, leading to potential data breaches or other cyber attacks.

If you cannot update to the latest version immediately, ensure that you have robust security measures in place, such as security plugins and firewalls. However, these measures are not substitutes for updating; they are merely temporary safeguards. The most effective way to secure your website is to keep all plugins, themes, and the WordPress core up to date.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a web security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. Unlike reflected XSS, which only affects users who click on a malicious link, stored XSS affects any users who view the compromised page. It is considered more dangerous because the malicious code is saved on the server and can affect a larger number of users.

Stored XSS can be used by attackers to perform a variety of malicious actions, such as stealing cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information that can be used to impersonate the victim. It can also alter the presented content in a browser or redirect visitors to malicious websites, compromising both user and organizational security.

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins regularly?

Not updating WordPress plugins can expose your website to security vulnerabilities, which can be exploited by hackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, or inject malicious content. Such security breaches can damage your reputation, lead to loss of customer trust, and even incur legal consequences if customer data is compromised.

Additionally, outdated plugins can cause compatibility issues with the latest WordPress updates and other plugins, potentially leading to website downtime or functional issues. This can affect user experience and SEO rankings negatively. Regular updates help in fixing bugs, improving performance, and adding new features, thereby maintaining the overall health and security of your website.

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

To check if your WordPress site has been compromised, start by looking for unusual activities. These can include unexpected changes to your website, new administrative accounts you did not create, suspicious files in your server directories, or unexpected redirects when visiting your site. You can also use security plugins that scan for malware and monitor for unusual activities.

Another effective method is to review your website's access logs for any unauthorized access or unusual requests. If you suspect that your site has been compromised, it is crucial to act quickly by investigating the breach, removing any malicious content, and strengthening your site’s security measures. Consulting a cybersecurity professional can provide expert guidance through this process.

What should I do if I find a security vulnerability in a plugin?

If you discover a security vulnerability in a plugin, the responsible course of action is to report it to the plugin developers immediately, rather than disclosing it publicly. This approach is part of responsible disclosure, which allows the developers to patch the vulnerability before it is widely known and potentially exploited.

You can contact the developers directly through their official website or support channels. Provide them with detailed information about the vulnerability, including how it can be exploited, and if possible, suggest a potential fix. Once the vulnerability has been addressed, it’s important to update the plugin to protect your website from potential attacks.

Are there tools or services that can help manage WordPress security?

Yes, there are numerous tools and services designed to help manage WordPress security. Security plugins like Wordfence, Sucuri Security, and iThemes Security provide comprehensive solutions that include malware scanning, firewalls, and post-hack security actions. These plugins help in actively blocking threats and monitoring your site for potential security breaches.

Additionally, managed WordPress hosting services such as WP Engine, Kinsta, and Flywheel offer enhanced security features, including automatic updates, daily backups, and advanced support, tailored specifically for WordPress sites. These services can greatly reduce the burden of security management, especially for business owners with limited technical expertise.

What are the best practices for maintaining WordPress security?

Maintaining WordPress security involves a multi-faceted approach. Regularly update your WordPress core, themes, and plugins to ensure you have the latest security patches. Use strong, unique passwords for your WordPress admin, FTP accounts, and database. Employ two-factor authentication (2FA) for an added layer of security.

Additionally, limit login attempts to prevent brute force attacks, use security plugins to monitor and block malicious activities, and ensure that your hosting environment is secure. Regularly back up your website so you can quickly restore it in case of an attack. Educate yourself and your team about the latest security threats and best practices to stay prepared.

How can I educate myself about WordPress security?

Educating yourself about WordPress security is crucial for effectively managing your website. Start by following blogs and publications that focus on web security, such as the Wordfence blog, Sucuri blog, and WPBeginner. These platforms often publish articles on the latest security threats, case studies, and best practices.

You can also attend webinars, workshops, and conferences focused on WordPress and cybersecurity. Many online courses are available that cover various aspects of WordPress security, from basic best practices to advanced protective strategies. Engaging with the WordPress community through forums and social media can also provide insights and updates about emerging security issues.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-3647, Cybersecurity, elementor security, Plugin Maintenance, Plugin Updates, Premium Addons for Elementor, secure WordPress sites, Web Security, WordPress for business, wordpress security, XSS vulnerabilities

Plugin Name: Premium Addons for Elementor

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

About Premium Addons for Elementor

Detailed Vulnerability Analysis

Risks and Potential Impacts

Remediation and User Advice

Historical Context and Recurring Vulnerabilities

Conclusion: The Imperative of Proactive Security Measures

Staying Secure

Premium Addons for Elementor Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘arrow_style’ – CVE-2024-3647 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-3647?

How do I update Premium Addons for Elementor to secure my site?

Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?Can I still use older versions of Premium Addons for Elementor safely?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

What are the risks of not updating WordPress plugins regularly?

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

What should I do if I find a security vulnerability in a plugin?

Are there tools or services that can help manage WordPress security?

What are the best practices for maintaining WordPress security?

How can I educate myself about WordPress security?

How can I educate myself about WordPress security?

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