Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-2027 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager

Key Information:

  • Software Type: Plugin
  • Software Slug: real-media-library-lite
  • Software Status: Active
  • Software Author: devowl
  • Software Downloads: 2,429,162
  • Active Installs: 80,000
  • Last Updated: March 25, 2024
  • Patched Versions: 4.22.8
  • Affected Versions: <= 4.22.7

Vulnerability Details:

  • Name: Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager <= 4.22.7
  • 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-2024-2027
  • CVSS Score: 6.4
  • Publicly Published: March 25, 2024
  • Researcher: Ngô Thiên An and Dau Hoang Tai - VNPT-VCI
  • Description: The Real Media Library plugin is compromised by a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability in all versions up to and including 4.22.7, stemming from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, particularly within the plugin's style attributes. This security flaw enables authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to embed arbitrary web scripts into pages, which are then executed when those pages are accessed by others.

Summary:

The Real Media Library plugin, a widely used media management tool for WordPress, harbors a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.22.7, which allows stored cross-site scripting via its style attributes. Fortunately, this issue has been addressed in the newly released version 4.22.8.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by the vigilant researchers Ngô Thiên An and Dau Hoang Tai from VNPT-VCI, this vulnerability exposes websites to significant risks, including unauthorized data access and potential website compromise. The exploit occurs within the plugin's style attributes, where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping allow attackers to inject malicious scripts. These scripts can perform a range of harmful actions, from stealing user data to taking control of the affected website, all unbeknownst to the site's visitors or administrators.

Advice for Users:

To mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability, users of the Real Media Library plugin should immediately update to version 4.22.8. Website administrators should also review their sites for any unusual content or behavior, particularly if they have been running a vulnerable version of the plugin. While the patched version is secure, exploring alternative plugins with similar functionalities could provide an additional layer of security. Above all, maintaining the currency of all installed plugins is crucial for website security.

Conclusion:

The prompt resolution of this vulnerability by the Real Media Library plugin developers highlights the critical importance of regular software updates in the defense against cyber threats. By ensuring that the plugin is updated to version 4.22.8 or later, WordPress site owners can protect their sites from potential exploits related to this vulnerability.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the swiftly evolving digital landscape, the integrity of your WordPress website hinges not just on its content and functionality but critically on its security. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability in the Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager plugin serves as a stark reminder of this reality. With over 80,000 active installs, this plugin is a cornerstone for many businesses in managing their online media efficiently. However, the revelation of a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-2027, underscores the ever-present need for vigilance and proactive security measures.

The Plugin at a Glance

Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager, developed by devowl, is a pivotal tool in the WordPress ecosystem, facilitating streamlined media management. Despite its widespread use and the developer's commitment to the plugin, evidenced by over 2 million downloads and regular updates, vulnerabilities can still surface. The most recent update on March 25, 2024, brought the plugin to version 4.22.8, addressing the critical flaw present in earlier versions up to 4.22.7.

Unpacking the Vulnerability

CVE-2024-2027 exposes a concerning gap in the plugin's security—specifically, a Stored Cross-Site Scripting flaw within the plugin's style attributes. This gap allowed users with at least contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts, posing a direct threat to the website's integrity and its users' safety. Detected by diligent researchers Ngô Thiên An and Dau Hoang Tai from VNPT-VCI, this vulnerability not only risked unauthorized data access but also the potential for complete website compromise.

Potential Risks and Impacts

The risks associated with such vulnerabilities cannot be overstated. Beyond the immediate threat of data breaches, they can lead to a loss of customer trust, reputational damage, and even legal consequences. Particularly for small business owners, who might already be stretched thin managing various aspects of their operations, such vulnerabilities can be especially daunting.

Steps Towards Remediation

In response to this vulnerability, the plugin's developers have released a patched version, 4.22.8, effectively closing the security gap. For website owners, the immediate course of action should be to update the plugin to this latest version. Additionally, conducting a thorough review of your website for any signs of compromise and considering alternative plugins with a strong security track record can further bolster your defenses.

Learning from the Past

It's noteworthy that this isn't the first vulnerability reported for the Real Media Library plugin, with two previous issues recorded since August 25, 2021. This pattern reinforces the need for continuous monitoring and updating of all WordPress plugins and themes, not just when vulnerabilities are widely publicized.

The Crucial Role of Proactive Security

For small business owners, navigating the complexities of website security can seem like a daunting addition to an already full plate. However, the consequences of overlooking this aspect of your digital presence can be far more burdensome. Regularly updating plugins, themes, and the WordPress core, along with employing security best practices, can significantly mitigate the risk of vulnerabilities. In today's digital age, where threats loom around every corner, staying informed and proactive about security updates is not just advisable; it's imperative for safeguarding your online assets and maintaining the trust of your 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.

 

Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-2027 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2027?

CVE-2024-2027 is a vulnerability identifier for a specific security flaw found in the Real Media Library: Media Library Folder & File Manager plugin for WordPress. This flaw is categorized as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, which was discovered in versions up to and including 4.22.7 of the plugin.

This vulnerability allows users with contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious scripts into web pages through the plugin's style attributes. When these pages are accessed by others, the malicious scripts execute, potentially compromising the website and its visitors' security.

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