ProfilePress Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via [reg-select-role] Shortcode – CVE-2024-1409 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is the ProfilePress plugin?

What is the ProfilePress plugin? ProfilePress is a popular WordPress plugin with over 200,000 active installs. It provides extended user profile, registration, login, and membership functionality for WordPress sites. The plugin allows site owners to collect in-depth user profiles, create custom registration forms, manage memberships, and more.

Q: What is the recent vulnerability that was found?

What is the recent vulnerability that was found? A cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024-1409, was disclosed last week by security researcher Ngô Thiên An. It stems from insufficient input sanitization on a ProfilePress registration shortcode. This could allow authenticated users with posting capabilities to inject malicious JavaScript onto pages that would then execute for visitors, creating significant security issues.

Q: How serious is this vulnerability?

How serious is this vulnerability? This vulnerability is considered medium severity but still poses serious risks, as the injected JavaScript would execute in any visitor's browser. Attackers could exploit it to steal sessions, hijack accounts, extract private profile details, or even install malware on some visitor devices under certain conditions. So it enables a range of client-side attacks against website users and should be addressed promptly.

Q: What specific risk does this pose for my website and users?

What specific risk does this pose for my website and users? If your site has ProfilePress active, visitors browsing pages with a vulnerable registration shortcode could have their user sessions and login cookies stolen, have malware installed, or have other JavaScript payloads trigger - allowing attackers access to their accounts. Customer and user data submitted via forms may also be stolen. So it jeopardizes security and privacy for end users.

Q: What versions of ProfilePress are affected?

What versions of ProfilePress are affected? All versions up to and including 4.15.0 are impacted. To resolve the issue, sites should update to version 4.15.1 or later.

Q: Is updating the only thing I need to do to stay secure?

Is updating the only thing I need to do to stay secure? Updating ProfilePress is the most critical first step and will remove the vulnerable code. You should also check your pages and posts for any unauthorized code that may have been injected already while you were vulnerable. Consider limiting Contributor access to posts and scans to check for malware if you find injected scripts. Going forward, enabling auto updates and monitoring the plugin changelog can help rapidly detect and patch any future vulnerabilities as well.

Q: Are other plugins likely vulnerable too?

Are other plugins likely vulnerable too? Unfortunately yes - vulnerabilities in plugins are extremely common and actively exploited before patches are available. That's why timely updates, limiting plugin use to reputable options, and monitoring sites for unusual behavior are so critical to staying secure.

Q: How often do vulnerabilities happen in WordPress plugins?

How often do vulnerabilities happen in WordPress plugins? Far too often unfortunately - with over half of WordPress infections stemming from outdated and vulnerable plugins. Highly active plugins like ProfilePress can have multiple vulnerabilities per month. This particular plugin has had 24 security issues reported in less than 3 years. Software contains bugs, and maintaining old plugin code multiplies that risk significantly.

Q: How realistic is it for small business owners to stay on top of issues like this?

How realistic is it for small business owners to stay on top of issues like this? It can definitely be challenging as a non-technical small business owner to stay vigilant of the latest vulnerabilities and software updates needed. But with some smart preventative practices, like enabling automated background updates, using hardening plugins, and scheduling occasional maintenance checks, you can manage it without needing dedicated technical resources.

Q: What is the most important thing for users and site owners to know about this vulnerability?

What is the most important thing for users and site owners to know about this vulnerability? This vulnerability highlights why timely plugin updates are truly critical for security. Leaving vulnerabilities open by running outdated software gives attackers an opening to damage sites, steal information, and distribute malware. So learning proper update processes and monitoring practices appropriate for small site owners helps remove that unnecessary risk.

By Your WP Guy | February 22, 2024

Plugin Name: ProfilePress

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: wp-user-avatar
Software Status: Active
Software Author: collizo4sky
Software Downloads: 12,483,598
Active Installs: 200,000
Last Updated: February 22, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.15.1
Affected Versions: <= 4.15.0

Vulnerability Details:

Name: ProfilePress <= 4.15.0 - Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via [reg-select-role] Shortcode
Type: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')
CVE: CVE-2024-1409
CVSS Score: 6.4 (Medium)
Publicly Published: February 22, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An
Description: The Paid Membership Plugin, Ecommerce, User Registration Form, Login Form, User Profile & Restrict Content – ProfilePress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's [reg-select-role] shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 4.15.0 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user supplied attributes. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with contributor-level and above permissions to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The ProfilePress for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.15.0 that allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary web scripts via the [reg-select-role] shortcode. This cross-site scripting vulnerability has been patched in version 4.15.1.

Detailed Overview:

Ngô Thiên An publicly disclosed an improper input sanitization vulnerability in the ProfilePress plugin version 4.15.0 and earlier on February 22, 2024. This vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024-1409, leverages insufficient sanitization of attributes in the [reg-select-role] shortcode which allows authenticated users with contributor permissions or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript that is stored and executed whenever a user views a vulnerable page. Attackers could potentially exploit this to hijack user sessions, redirect users to malicious sites, or insert malicious code into vulnerable pages. Users are advised to update immediately to version 4.15.1 which contains protections against this vulnerability. There have been 24 previous vulnerabilities in ProfilePress since June 2021, which highlights the importance of timely updates.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to ProfilePress version 4.15.1 as soon as possible.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review pages and posts on your site for unauthorized code injected via the vulnerable shortcode.
Alternate Plugins: Consider alternate user registration, membership and profile plugins as a precaution, such as Ultimate Member or Paid Memberships Pro.
Stay Updated: Enable automatic updates for plugins and regularly check the ProfilePress changelog for security fixes.

Conclusion:

ProfilePress responded quickly with a patched version to address this vulnerability. Users should ensure they are running version 4.15.1 or later to safeguard their WordPress sites. The number of historical vulnerabilities is a reminder for users to keep software updated to the latest secure versions.

References:

https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/wp-user-avatar

https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/wp-user-avatar/paid-membership-plugin-ecommerce-user-registration-form-login-form-user-profile-restrict-content-profilepress-4150-authenticated-contributor-stored-cross-site-scripting-via-reg-select-role-shortcode

Detailed Report:

Keeping your WordPress website secure should be a top priority – unfortunately, vulnerabilities in plugins can put that security at risk if you don't stay vigilant. Just last week, a vulnerability was disclosed in the popular ProfilePress plugin that could allow hackers to take over user accounts, deface sites, and even install malware.

ProfilePress is installed on over 200,000 WordPress sites and powers user registration, membership, profiles and more. Versions up to and including 4.15.0 contain a vulnerability (tracked as CVE-2024-1409) stemming from insufficient input sanitization on a registration form shortcode.

This vulnerability is serious because an attacker could leverage it to inject malicious JavaScript code into pages and posts on vulnerable sites. When other users view these pages, the malicious code would execute – allowing the hacker to potentially hijack user sessions, redirect to malicious sites, or deface the vulnerable site.

If you use ProfilePress, you should update to version 4.15.1 immediately to patch this vulnerability. And even if you don’t use this specific plugin, this is an important reminder of the importance of timely plugin updates. Outdated plugins are involved in over half of WordPress infections – which can lead to defaced sites, stolen customer data, and even blacklisting by Google.

In addition to updating ProfilePress, small business owners should:

Enable automatic background updates for plugins whenever possible, to ensure vulnerabilities get patched rapidly
Regularly check plugin changelogs for security fixes, and schedule updates if automatic updates are not enabled
Consider limiting user roles like Contributors, who may not need shortcode access, to reduce attack surface
Learn some basic signs of compromise like unauthorized code or files appearing on your site
Leverage a site monitoring tool to detect and block attacks targeting vulnerabilities

This vulnerability is just the latest in a long line for ProfilePress. There have been 24 security issues reported in the plugin since June 2021 – over one per month. While the developers responded quickly here with a patched version, the sheer volume of problems highlights the overall risk of relying on outdated plugin code.

Keeping your plugins updated is truly a security best practice. As a small business owner without a large IT team, it can seem endless and overwhelming – but with some preventative care you can stay on top of it. Enabling automatic background updates, proactively scheduling monthly plugin scans, and using security tools tailored for WordPress can help harden your site from threats related to vulnerabilities like this.

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.

ProfilePress Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via [reg-select-role] Shortcode – CVE-2024-1409 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the ProfilePress plugin?

What is the recent vulnerability that was found?

A cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability, tracked as CVE-2024-1409, was disclosed last week by security researcher Ngô Thiên An. It stems from insufficient input sanitization on a ProfilePress registration shortcode. This could allow authenticated users with posting capabilities to inject malicious JavaScript onto pages that would then execute for visitors, creating significant security issues.

How serious is this vulnerability?

This vulnerability is considered medium severity but still poses serious risks, as the injected JavaScript would execute in any visitor's browser. Attackers could exploit it to steal sessions, hijack accounts, extract private profile details, or even install malware on some visitor devices under certain conditions. So it enables a range of client-side attacks against website users and should be addressed promptly.

What specific risk does this pose for my website and users?

If your site has ProfilePress active, visitors browsing pages with a vulnerable registration shortcode could have their user sessions and login cookies stolen, have malware installed, or have other JavaScript payloads trigger - allowing attackers access to their accounts. Customer and user data submitted via forms may also be stolen. So it jeopardizes security and privacy for end users.

What versions of ProfilePress are affected?

Is updating the only thing I need to do to stay secure?

Updating ProfilePress is the most critical first step and will remove the vulnerable code. You should also check your pages and posts for any unauthorized code that may have been injected already while you were vulnerable. Consider limiting Contributor access to posts and scans to check for malware if you find injected scripts. Going forward, enabling auto updates and monitoring the plugin changelog can help rapidly detect and patch any future vulnerabilities as well.

Are other plugins likely vulnerable too?

How often do vulnerabilities happen in WordPress plugins?

Far too often unfortunately - with over half of WordPress infections stemming from outdated and vulnerable plugins. Highly active plugins like ProfilePress can have multiple vulnerabilities per month. This particular plugin has had 24 security issues reported in less than 3 years. Software contains bugs, and maintaining old plugin code multiplies that risk significantly.

How realistic is it for small business owners to stay on top of issues like this?

It can definitely be challenging as a non-technical small business owner to stay vigilant of the latest vulnerabilities and software updates needed. But with some smart preventative practices, like enabling automated background updates, using hardening plugins, and scheduling occasional maintenance checks, you can manage it without needing dedicated technical resources.

What is the most important thing for users and site owners to know about this vulnerability?

This vulnerability highlights why timely plugin updates are truly critical for security. Leaving vulnerabilities open by running outdated software gives attackers an opening to damage sites, steal information, and distribute malware. So learning proper update processes and monitoring practices appropriate for small site owners helps remove that unnecessary risk.

Share this post:

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

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, cve-2024-1409, Plugin Vulnerability, profilepress, stored XSS, Vulnerability Patch, Web Security, Website Maintenance, WordPress Maintenance, WordPress plugin updates, wordpress security, XSS

ProfilePress Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via [reg-select-role] Shortcode – CVE-2024-1409 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: ProfilePress

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

ProfilePress Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via [reg-select-role] Shortcode – CVE-2024-1409 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is the ProfilePress plugin?

What is the ProfilePress plugin?

What is the recent vulnerability that was found?

What is the recent vulnerability that was found?

How serious is this vulnerability?

How serious is this vulnerability?

What specific risk does this pose for my website and users?

What specific risk does this pose for my website and users?

What versions of ProfilePress are affected?

What versions of ProfilePress are affected?

Is updating the only thing I need to do to stay secure?

Is updating the only thing I need to do to stay secure?

Are other plugins likely vulnerable too?

Are other plugins likely vulnerable too?

How often do vulnerabilities happen in WordPress plugins?

How often do vulnerabilities happen in WordPress plugins?

How realistic is it for small business owners to stay on top of issues like this?

How realistic is it for small business owners to stay on top of issues like this?

What is the most important thing for users and site owners to know about this vulnerability?

What is the most important thing for users and site owners to know about this vulnerability?

Share this post:

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Recent Blog Posts

LiteSpeed Cache Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Sensitive Information Exposure via Log Files – CVE-2024-44000 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Multiple Parameters – CVE-2024-4401, CVE-2024-7122 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

The Post Grid – Shortcode, Gutenberg Blocks and Elementor Addon for Post Grid Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Information Disclosure – CVE-2024-7418 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Additional Resources

About Your WP Guy