RSS Aggregator Vulnerability– RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging – Authenticated (Admin+) Server-Side Request Forgery via RSS Feed Source – CVE-2024-0628 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0628?

What is CVE-2024-0628? CVE-2024-0628 is a designated identifier for a security vulnerability found in the RSS Aggregator WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) issue, where authenticated users with administrative privileges can make unauthorized web requests from the server, potentially leading to internal network access or data manipulation. This vulnerability was disclosed on February 6, 2024, highlighting a significant risk within versions up to 4.23.5 of the RSS Aggregator plugin. The issue has since been addressed in version 4.23.6.

Q: How does CVE-2024-0628 affect WordPress websites?

How does CVE-2024-0628 affect WordPress websites? CVE-2024-0628 affects WordPress websites by allowing individuals with administrative access to exploit the server for unauthorized information queries and modifications. This can lead to potential interactions with internal systems, unauthorized access to sensitive data, or manipulation of website content. For websites using the compromised versions of the RSS Aggregator plugin, this vulnerability poses a risk to site integrity and security, emphasizing the importance of updating to the patched version to safeguard against potential exploits.

Q: What should I do if my site uses an affected version of RSS Aggregator?

What should I do if my site uses an affected version of RSS Aggregator? If your WordPress site is using an affected version of the RSS Aggregator plugin (up to 4.23.5), it's crucial to update to the patched version 4.23.6 immediately. This update contains fixes for the SSRF vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0628. After updating, reviewing your site for any signs of compromise and monitoring server logs can help ensure that the vulnerability has not been exploited. Regularly updating your plugins and themes remains a key practice in maintaining a secure WordPress site.

Q: Can CVE-2024-0628 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

Can CVE-2024-0628 be exploited by any visitor to my site? CVE-2024-0628 cannot be exploited by just any visitor to your site; it requires administrative access to exploit. However, this does not diminish the threat, as compromised admin accounts or insider threats could potentially exploit this vulnerability. Ensuring strong administrative account security measures, such as using secure passwords and two-factor authentication, can help mitigate the risk of such exploitation.

Q: What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2024-0628?

What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2024-0628? Failing to address CVE-2024-0628 can leave your WordPress site vulnerable to SSRF attacks, where unauthorized web requests can be made from your server. This could lead to unauthorized access to internal systems, data breaches, or manipulation of site content. The consequences of such exploits can be severe, including loss of sensitive data, compromised site integrity, and erosion of user trust. Updating to the patched version of the RSS Aggregator plugin is essential for mitigating these risks.

Q: How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability? To check if your WordPress site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-0628, monitor your server logs for any unusual or unauthorized requests that may have originated from your site. Additionally, reviewing changes to your site's content, user accounts, and configurations can help identify any signs of compromise. If suspicious activity is detected, conducting a thorough security audit and possibly engaging cybersecurity professionals for a detailed investigation and remediation is advisable.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator that do not have this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator that do not have this vulnerability? There are several alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator for WordPress that offer similar RSS feed importing and autoblogging functionalities. Some popular alternatives include WP RSS Importer, FeedWordPress, and WP Robot. When considering an alternative, it's important to research and evaluate the plugin's security history, user reviews, and update frequency to ensure it meets your site's needs and security standards.

Q: What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities?

What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities? WordPress plugin developers can prevent similar vulnerabilities by adhering to secure coding practices, such as validating and sanitizing all inputs, implementing proper authorization checks, and conducting regular security audits and code reviews. Staying informed about common security threats and best practices can also help developers enhance the security of their plugins. Engaging with the WordPress security community and utilizing resources like the WordPress Plugin Handbook for security guidelines can further contribute to developing more secure plugins.

Q: How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated? WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially when the updates address security vulnerabilities. Developers frequently release updates to add new features, fix bugs, and patch security issues, making regular updates crucial for maintaining site security and functionality. Setting up automatic updates for plugins or regularly checking for updates manually can help ensure your site is always running the most secure and stable versions of your installed plugins.

Q: Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins is crucial because vulnerabilities can be quickly exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive information, or compromise the integrity of your site. In an e-commerce context or any site handling sensitive user data, the stakes are even higher due to the potential for financial and personal information loss. Regularly updating plugins, employing security best practices, and staying informed about the latest security threats are key steps in protecting your WordPress site from potential vulnerabilities and ensuring a secure experience for your users.

By Your WP Guy | February 6, 2024

Plugin Name: RSS Aggregator – RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: wp-rss-aggregator
Software Status: Active
Software Author: jeangalea
Software Downloads: 2,636,080
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: February 13, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.23.6
Affected Versions: 4.23.5 - 4.23.5

Vulnerability Details:

Name: WP RSS Aggregator <= 4.23.5
Title: Authenticated (Admin+) Server-Side Request Forgery via RSS Feed Source
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-0628
CVSS Score: 3.8
Publicly Published: February 6, 2024
Researcher: Colin Xu
Description: The WP RSS Aggregator plugin, a powerful tool for importing and aggregating RSS feeds within WordPress sites, has a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability in its RSS feed source settings. This flaw, found in versions up to 4.23.5, allows authenticated attackers with administrative access to make unauthorized web requests from the server, potentially interacting with internal systems or modifying sensitive information.

Summary:

The RSS Aggregator plugin, essential for WordPress users who curate content from various RSS feeds, has been identified with a critical SSRF vulnerability in its recent versions up to 4.23.5. This security lapse, addressed in version 4.23.6, could allow attackers with admin privileges to exploit the server for unauthorized information queries and modifications, posing a significant risk to site integrity.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by cybersecurity researcher Colin Xu, this vulnerability underscores the necessity of stringent input validation and secure configuration settings within plugins, especially those with advanced functionalities like RSS Aggregator. The SSRF vulnerability could be exploited to access or interact with internal network services, leading to data leaks or unauthorized actions on the server. The timely release of a patch in version 4.23.6 highlights the importance of immediate action in response to such vulnerabilities.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update the RSS Aggregator plugin to version 4.23.6 promptly to protect your site from potential SSRF attacks.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor server logs and WordPress activity for any unusual requests or actions that might indicate the exploitation of this vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: While the updated version is secure, users may consider alternative RSS feed plugins as a precautionary measure or for additional features.
Stay Updated: Regularly updating all WordPress components is vital in safeguarding your site against known vulnerabilities and maintaining a secure online presence.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the SSRF vulnerability in the RSS Aggregator plugin serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing need for diligence in the digital security landscape. WordPress site owners are encouraged to apply the latest updates and adhere to security best practices, ensuring their installations are fortified against such threats. This incident highlights the importance of proactive security measures and the role of the WordPress community in maintaining a secure and trustworthy platform for all users.

References:

In the dynamic realm of WordPress, where plugins are the lifeblood that infuses websites with diverse functionalities, the revelation of a security vulnerability within a widely utilized plugin casts a shadow on the digital landscape. The "RSS Aggregator – RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging" plugin, a cornerstone for many in curating and presenting content from various RSS feeds, has recently been spotlighted for a significant security flaw identified as CVE-2024-0628. This incident not only highlights the vulnerability inherent in digital tools but also serves as a critical reminder of the ongoing need for vigilance and proactive security measures in the maintenance of WordPress sites.

Plugin Overview:

"RSS Aggregator" stands as a pivotal tool for WordPress users, streamlining the aggregation and display of RSS feeds to enhance content richness and user engagement. Developed by jeangalea, the plugin has seen substantial adoption, with over 2.6 million downloads and 60,000 active installations. Its functionality extends from simple feed importation to complex autoblogging capabilities, making it an essential plugin for content-rich sites.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-0628 exposes a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability within the plugin's RSS feed source settings, specifically affecting versions up to 4.23.5. This flaw allows authenticated users with administrative privileges to conduct unauthorized web requests from the server, potentially accessing or manipulating internal systems. Publicly disclosed on February 6, 2024, by researcher Colin Xu, this vulnerability underscores the critical need for secure configuration and stringent input validation in plugin development.

Potential Risks:

The SSRF vulnerability poses substantial risks, including unauthorized access to internal networks, data breaches, and potential server compromise. For WordPress sites utilizing the affected versions of the RSS Aggregator plugin, the integrity and security of both site and user data could be jeopardized, leading to significant reputational and operational repercussions, particularly for small businesses reliant on their digital presence.

Remediation Steps:

In response to CVE-2024-0628, the plugin developers released a patched version, 4.23.6, addressing the vulnerability. Site owners are urged to update to this latest version promptly to mitigate the associated risks. Additionally, monitoring for unusual server activity and conducting regular security reviews can further safeguard against potential exploits.

Historical Context:

This is not the first instance of vulnerability within the RSS Aggregator plugin, with four previous security concerns reported since December 16, 2014. This history accentuates the importance of regular security audits and updates as part of a comprehensive digital security strategy.

Concluding Thoughts:

The resolution of CVE-2024-0628 in the RSS Aggregator plugin serves as a poignant reminder of the ever-present security threats in the digital domain. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, this incident underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date plugins and implementing robust security measures. In an era where digital vulnerabilities are increasingly exploited, staying informed and proactive in addressing security concerns is indispensable in safeguarding your online assets and ensuring the continued 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.

RSS Aggregator Vulnerability– RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging – Authenticated (Admin+) Server-Side Request Forgery via RSS Feed Source – CVE-2024-0628 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0628?

CVE-2024-0628 is a designated identifier for a security vulnerability found in the RSS Aggregator WordPress plugin. This vulnerability is classified as a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) issue, where authenticated users with administrative privileges can make unauthorized web requests from the server, potentially leading to internal network access or data manipulation.

This vulnerability was disclosed on February 6, 2024, highlighting a significant risk within versions up to 4.23.5 of the RSS Aggregator plugin. The issue has since been addressed in version 4.23.6.

How does CVE-2024-0628 affect WordPress websites?

CVE-2024-0628 affects WordPress websites by allowing individuals with administrative access to exploit the server for unauthorized information queries and modifications. This can lead to potential interactions with internal systems, unauthorized access to sensitive data, or manipulation of website content.

For websites using the compromised versions of the RSS Aggregator plugin, this vulnerability poses a risk to site integrity and security, emphasizing the importance of updating to the patched version to safeguard against potential exploits.

What should I do if my site uses an affected version of RSS Aggregator?

If your WordPress site is using an affected version of the RSS Aggregator plugin (up to 4.23.5), it's crucial to update to the patched version 4.23.6 immediately. This update contains fixes for the SSRF vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0628.

After updating, reviewing your site for any signs of compromise and monitoring server logs can help ensure that the vulnerability has not been exploited. Regularly updating your plugins and themes remains a key practice in maintaining a secure WordPress site.

Can CVE-2024-0628 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

CVE-2024-0628 cannot be exploited by just any visitor to your site; it requires administrative access to exploit. However, this does not diminish the threat, as compromised admin accounts or insider threats could potentially exploit this vulnerability.

Ensuring strong administrative account security measures, such as using secure passwords and two-factor authentication, can help mitigate the risk of such exploitation.

What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2024-0628?

Failing to address CVE-2024-0628 can leave your WordPress site vulnerable to SSRF attacks, where unauthorized web requests can be made from your server. This could lead to unauthorized access to internal systems, data breaches, or manipulation of site content.

The consequences of such exploits can be severe, including loss of sensitive data, compromised site integrity, and erosion of user trust. Updating to the patched version of the RSS Aggregator plugin is essential for mitigating these risks.

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

To check if your WordPress site has been compromised due to CVE-2024-0628, monitor your server logs for any unusual or unauthorized requests that may have originated from your site. Additionally, reviewing changes to your site's content, user accounts, and configurations can help identify any signs of compromise.

If suspicious activity is detected, conducting a thorough security audit and possibly engaging cybersecurity professionals for a detailed investigation and remediation is advisable.

Are there alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator that do not have this vulnerability?

There are several alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator for WordPress that offer similar RSS feed importing and autoblogging functionalities. Some popular alternatives include WP RSS Importer, FeedWordPress, and WP Robot.

When considering an alternative, it's important to research and evaluate the plugin's security history, user reviews, and update frequency to ensure it meets your site's needs and security standards.

What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities?

WordPress plugin developers can prevent similar vulnerabilities by adhering to secure coding practices, such as validating and sanitizing all inputs, implementing proper authorization checks, and conducting regular security audits and code reviews. Staying informed about common security threats and best practices can also help developers enhance the security of their plugins.

Engaging with the WordPress security community and utilizing resources like the WordPress Plugin Handbook for security guidelines can further contribute to developing more secure plugins.

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

WordPress plugins should be updated as soon as new versions are released, especially when the updates address security vulnerabilities. Developers frequently release updates to add new features, fix bugs, and patch security issues, making regular updates crucial for maintaining site security and functionality.

Setting up automatic updates for plugins or regularly checking for updates manually can help ensure your site is always running the most secure and stable versions of your installed plugins.

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins is crucial because vulnerabilities can be quickly exploited by attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive information, or compromise the integrity of your site. In an e-commerce context or any site handling sensitive user data, the stakes are even higher due to the potential for financial and personal information loss.

Regularly updating plugins, employing security best practices, and staying informed about the latest security threats are key steps in protecting your WordPress site from potential vulnerabilities and ensuring a secure experience for your users.

Share this post:

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

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged autoblogging, content curation, CVE-2024-0628, digital security for small businesses, Plugin Updates, RSS Aggregator vulnerability, secure RSS feeds, SSRF vulnerability, WordPress plugin maintenance, wordpress security

Plugin Name: RSS Aggregator – RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Details:

Potential Risks:

Remediation Steps:

Historical Context:

Concluding Thoughts:

Staying Secure

RSS Aggregator Vulnerability– RSS Import, News Feeds, Feed to Post, and Autoblogging – Authenticated (Admin+) Server-Side Request Forgery via RSS Feed Source – CVE-2024-0628 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0628?

How does CVE-2024-0628 affect WordPress websites?

What should I do if my site uses an affected version of RSS Aggregator?

Can CVE-2024-0628 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

What are the potential consequences of not addressing CVE-2024-0628?

How can I check if my WordPress site has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to RSS Aggregator that do not have this vulnerability?

What measures can WordPress plugin developers take to prevent similar vulnerabilities?

How often should WordPress plugins be updated?

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Why is it crucial to stay on top of security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

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