SecuPress Free Vulnerability — WordPress Security – Cross-Site Request Forgery to Banned IP Address – CVE-2024-1504 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1504?

What is CVE-2024-1504? CVE-2024-1504 is a designated identifier for a specific vulnerability discovered in the SecuPress Free — WordPress Security plugin. This vulnerability pertains to Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), which could potentially allow unauthenticated attackers to trick users into unknowingly banning their own IP addresses from accessing the site. The vulnerability was identified in versions up to and including 2.2.5.1 of the plugin. This security issue arises from improper nonce validation within the plugin's functions, a common oversight that can lead to significant security breaches if exploited. Addressing such vulnerabilities promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites.

Q: How does CVE-2024-1504 affect WordPress sites?

How does CVE-2024-1504 affect WordPress sites? CVE-2024-1504 poses a risk to WordPress sites by making them susceptible to CSRF attacks. In this context, attackers could deceive authenticated users into executing actions without their knowledge or consent, such as banning their own IP addresses from the site. This can lead to unauthorized site modifications and potential disruption of service for legitimate users. The impact of this vulnerability underscores the importance of robust security measures and validations within plugins to prevent unauthorized actions. It highlights the need for constant vigilance and updates in the digital security landscape to protect WordPress sites from potential threats.

Q: How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504? To determine if your WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504, you'll need to check the version of the SecuPress Free plugin that you're currently using. You can do this by navigating to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and locating SecuPress Free to see its version information. If your site is running SecuPress Free version 2.2.5.1 or below, it is at risk and needs to be updated immediately to version 2.2.5.2, which contains the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. Keeping your plugins up to date is essential for safeguarding your site against known vulnerabilities.

Q: What should I do if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1504?

What should I do if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1504? If your site is affected by CVE-2024-1504, the most effective course of action is to update the SecuPress Free plugin to the latest version, 2.2.5.2, which includes a patch for this vulnerability. Updates can typically be performed directly from the WordPress dashboard under the 'Plugins' section. Before updating, it's advisable to back up your site to prevent any potential data loss or issues that may arise during the update process. Regularly updating your plugins and WordPress core is crucial for maintaining a secure online presence.

Q: Can CVE-2024-1504 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

Can CVE-2024-1504 be exploited by unauthenticated users? Yes, CVE-2024-1504 can be exploited by unauthenticated users if they can trick an authenticated user into performing an action, such as clicking on a malicious link. This is characteristic of CSRF vulnerabilities, where the attacker exploits the trust a site has in the user's browser. It's important for site administrators to be aware of such vulnerabilities and take preventative measures, such as updating to secure versions of plugins and employing additional security practices like using nonce tokens effectively, to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Q: What is Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)?

What is Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)? Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to trick users into performing actions on a website without their knowledge or consent. Typically, this involves making a request to a web application where the user is already authenticated, leveraging the user's existing credentials to execute unauthorized actions. CSRF vulnerabilities exploit the trust that a website has in the user's browser, making it a critical threat to web security. Effective countermeasures include implementing proper nonce validation and other security checks to ensure that every request is intentionally and consciously made by the user.

Q: Will updating SecuPress Free to fix CVE-2024-1504 affect my website?

Will updating SecuPress Free to fix CVE-2024-1504 affect my website? Updating SecuPress Free to address CVE-2024-1504 should not negatively impact your website's functionality or performance. Plugin updates, especially those released to patch security vulnerabilities, are designed to be compatible with existing installations and to enhance security without disrupting site operations. However, it's always prudent to perform a full backup of your website before applying any updates. This ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state in case any issues arise during the update process.

Q: Are there alternatives to SecuPress Free that offer better security?

Are there alternatives to SecuPress Free that offer better security? While SecuPress Free is a popular WordPress security plugin, there are several other reputable security plugins available, each with its own set of features and security measures. Alternatives include Wordfence, iThemes Security, and Sucuri Security, among others. When considering a switch, it's important to evaluate each plugin's capabilities, user reviews, and compatibility with your site's specific needs. Regardless of the security plugin you choose, the key to maintaining a secure WordPress site lies in regular updates, vigilant monitoring, and adherence to best practices in digital security.

Q: How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves regularly checking reputable security sources, subscribing to security newsletters, and following updates from plugin developers. Websites like the WordPress Vulnerability Database, security blogs like Wordfence, and Sucuri provide timely information on discovered vulnerabilities and security advisories. Additionally, using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and alerts can help keep you informed about potential threats, enabling proactive measures to secure your site.

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

What are the best practices for WordPress site security? Best practices for WordPress site security include regularly updating the WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities. Employing strong passwords, using security plugins for continuous monitoring, setting up a web application firewall (WAF), and conducting regular backups are also crucial for a robust security posture. Educating yourself and any users with access to your site about security awareness, recognizing phishing attempts, and securing personal accounts further strengthens your site's defenses. Adopting a proactive and informed approach to website security is instrumental in protecting against vulnerabilities and cyber threats.

By Your WP Guy | April 1, 2024

Plugin Name: SecuPress Free — WordPress Security

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: secupress
Software Status: Active
Software Author: SecuPress
Software Downloads: 623,070
Active Installs: 40,000
Last Updated: April 2, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.2.5.2
Affected Versions: <= 2.2.5.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: SecuPress Free — WordPress Security <= 2.2.5.1
Title: Cross-Site Request Forgery to Banned IP Address
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-1504
CVSS Score: 4.3
Publicly Published: April 1, 2024
Researcher: Luciò Sa
Description: A Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability has been discovered in the SecuPress Free — WordPress Security plugin, specifically within the secupress_blackhole_ban_ip() function. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to potentially block a user's IP address by tricking them into executing a malicious request, such as clicking on a deceptive link.

Summary:

SecuPress Free, a prominent security plugin for WordPress, has been identified with a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.2.5.1, tagged as CVE-2024-1504. This vulnerability, centered around CSRF, could lead to unauthorized IP banning, underscoring the importance of maintaining plugin integrity through timely updates. The issue has been effectively addressed in the updated version 2.2.5.2.

Detailed Overview:

The CSRF vulnerability uncovered by researcher Luciò Sa highlights a significant security oversight in nonce validation within the plugin, exposing sites to potential misuse by attackers. By exploiting this vulnerability, malicious entities could engineer scenarios where unsuspecting users inadvertently initiate actions against their own interests, such as banning their own IP addresses from accessing the site. The patch in version 2.2.5.2 rectifies this vulnerability, reinforcing the plugin's defenses against such exploits.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users of the SecuPress Free plugin are advised to promptly update to the patched version 2.2.5.2 to mitigate the risk associated with CVE-2024-1504.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should monitor their sites for any unusual activity that may indicate exploitation and review IP ban lists for any anomalies.
Alternate Plugins: While the current vulnerability has been patched, users may consider exploring other reputable security plugins as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: Regular updates are crucial in ensuring the security of WordPress plugins, providing a crucial barrier against potential vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The resolution of the CSRF vulnerability in the SecuPress Free plugin by its developers accentuates the vital role that prompt software updates play in safeguarding WordPress sites. In an era where cyber threats are ever-present, ensuring that plugins like SecuPress Free are kept up to date is indispensable in maintaining the security and reliability of your digital presence. For small business owners and web administrators, adopting a proactive stance on cybersecurity is not just prudent; it's a necessity for the sustained health and security of your WordPress installations.

References:

Detailed Report:

In today's digital ecosystem, where websites serve as both the storefront and the cornerstone of businesses and personal brands, maintaining robust security measures is not just a recommendation; it's an imperative. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability in the SecuPress Free — WordPress Security plugin, known as CVE-2024-1504, underscores the relentless vigilance required to protect these virtual domains from ever-evolving cyber threats. This Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) vulnerability not only highlights the specific risks associated with this widely utilized plugin but also serves as a broader reminder of the critical importance of keeping all website components, particularly plugins, up to date.

About the SecuPress Free Plugin:

Developed by SecuPress, the SecuPress Free plugin is designed to enhance WordPress site security with a suite of comprehensive features. Boasting over 623,070 downloads and active on 40,000 websites, the plugin's popularity within the WordPress community is undeniable. However, like any software, it's not immune to vulnerabilities, as evidenced by the recent discovery of CVE-2024-1504 in versions up to and including 2.2.5.1.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-1504: This vulnerability exposes a flaw in the plugin's secupress_blackhole_ban_ip() function, where missing or incorrect nonce validation can allow unauthenticated attackers to forge requests. Such requests can potentially lead to unauthorized IP banning if a user is deceived into clicking a malicious link.
Impact: The exploitation of this vulnerability could disrupt site accessibility for legitimate users and compromise site integrity, potentially eroding user trust and damaging the site's reputation.

Addressing the Vulnerability:

The SecuPress team promptly addressed this vulnerability with the release of patched version 2.2.5.2. This update rectifies the nonce validation issue, mitigating the risk of CSRF attacks and restoring confidence in the plugin's security posture.

Historical Context:

Prior to CVE-2024-1504, SecuPress Free had encountered one other documented vulnerability since March 22, 2021. This history emphasizes the importance of continuous security monitoring and updates in the fight against cyber threats.

Conclusion:

The swift resolution of the CSRF vulnerability in the SecuPress Free plugin by its developers highlights the critical role that timely software updates play in safeguarding WordPress sites against potential cyber threats. In an era characterized by sophisticated and continually evolving cyber-attacks, ensuring that plugins like SecuPress Free are kept up to date is paramount for maintaining the security and reliability of your digital presence. For small business owners, who often juggle numerous responsibilities, understanding the significance of such vulnerabilities and taking proactive steps to address them is essential for the sustained health and security of WordPress installations. Leveraging tools like automatic update features, employing reputable security solutions, and staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends can help streamline this process, ensuring that your website remains a secure and trustworthy platform for your audience.

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.

SecuPress Free Vulnerability — WordPress Security – Cross-Site Request Forgery to Banned IP Address – CVE-2024-1504 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1504?

CVE-2024-1504 is a designated identifier for a specific vulnerability discovered in the SecuPress Free — WordPress Security plugin. This vulnerability pertains to Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF), which could potentially allow unauthenticated attackers to trick users into unknowingly banning their own IP addresses from accessing the site. The vulnerability was identified in versions up to and including 2.2.5.1 of the plugin.

This security issue arises from improper nonce validation within the plugin's functions, a common oversight that can lead to significant security breaches if exploited. Addressing such vulnerabilities promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites.

How does CVE-2024-1504 affect WordPress sites?

CVE-2024-1504 poses a risk to WordPress sites by making them susceptible to CSRF attacks. In this context, attackers could deceive authenticated users into executing actions without their knowledge or consent, such as banning their own IP addresses from the site. This can lead to unauthorized site modifications and potential disruption of service for legitimate users.

The impact of this vulnerability underscores the importance of robust security measures and validations within plugins to prevent unauthorized actions. It highlights the need for constant vigilance and updates in the digital security landscape to protect WordPress sites from potential threats.

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504?

To determine if your WordPress site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504, you'll need to check the version of the SecuPress Free plugin that you're currently using. You can do this by navigating to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard and locating SecuPress Free to see its version information.

If your site is running SecuPress Free version 2.2.5.1 or below, it is at risk and needs to be updated immediately to version 2.2.5.2, which contains the necessary fixes for this vulnerability. Keeping your plugins up to date is essential for safeguarding your site against known vulnerabilities.

What should I do if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1504?

If your site is affected by CVE-2024-1504, the most effective course of action is to update the SecuPress Free plugin to the latest version, 2.2.5.2, which includes a patch for this vulnerability. Updates can typically be performed directly from the WordPress dashboard under the 'Plugins' section.

Before updating, it's advisable to back up your site to prevent any potential data loss or issues that may arise during the update process. Regularly updating your plugins and WordPress core is crucial for maintaining a secure online presence.

Can CVE-2024-1504 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

Yes, CVE-2024-1504 can be exploited by unauthenticated users if they can trick an authenticated user into performing an action, such as clicking on a malicious link. This is characteristic of CSRF vulnerabilities, where the attacker exploits the trust a site has in the user's browser.

It's important for site administrators to be aware of such vulnerabilities and take preventative measures, such as updating to secure versions of plugins and employing additional security practices like using nonce tokens effectively, to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

What is Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)?

Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) is a type of security vulnerability that allows attackers to trick users into performing actions on a website without their knowledge or consent. Typically, this involves making a request to a web application where the user is already authenticated, leveraging the user's existing credentials to execute unauthorized actions.

CSRF vulnerabilities exploit the trust that a website has in the user's browser, making it a critical threat to web security. Effective countermeasures include implementing proper nonce validation and other security checks to ensure that every request is intentionally and consciously made by the user.

Will updating SecuPress Free to fix CVE-2024-1504 affect my website?

Updating SecuPress Free to address CVE-2024-1504 should not negatively impact your website's functionality or performance. Plugin updates, especially those released to patch security vulnerabilities, are designed to be compatible with existing installations and to enhance security without disrupting site operations.

However, it's always prudent to perform a full backup of your website before applying any updates. This ensures that you can restore your site to its previous state in case any issues arise during the update process.

Are there alternatives to SecuPress Free that offer better security?

While SecuPress Free is a popular WordPress security plugin, there are several other reputable security plugins available, each with its own set of features and security measures. Alternatives include Wordfence, iThemes Security, and Sucuri Security, among others. When considering a switch, it's important to evaluate each plugin's capabilities, user reviews, and compatibility with your site's specific needs.

Regardless of the security plugin you choose, the key to maintaining a secure WordPress site lies in regular updates, vigilant monitoring, and adherence to best practices in digital security.

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves regularly checking reputable security sources, subscribing to security newsletters, and following updates from plugin developers. Websites like the WordPress Vulnerability Database, security blogs like Wordfence, and Sucuri provide timely information on discovered vulnerabilities and security advisories.

Additionally, using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and alerts can help keep you informed about potential threats, enabling proactive measures to secure your site.

What are the best practices for WordPress site security?

Best practices for WordPress site security include regularly updating the WordPress core, themes, and plugins to their latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities. Employing strong passwords, using security plugins for continuous monitoring, setting up a web application firewall (WAF), and conducting regular backups are also crucial for a robust security posture.

Educating yourself and any users with access to your site about security awareness, recognizing phishing attempts, and securing personal accounts further strengthens your site's defenses. Adopting a proactive and informed approach to website security is instrumental in protecting against vulnerabilities and cyber threats.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CSRF attack, CVE-2024-1504, Cybersecurity for WordPress, digital security best practices, Plugin Updates, proactive cybersecurity measures, SecuPress Free vulnerability, securing WordPress sites, Website Maintenance, wordpress security

Plugin Name: SecuPress Free — WordPress Security

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

About the SecuPress Free Plugin:

Vulnerability Details:

Addressing the Vulnerability:

Historical Context:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

SecuPress Free Vulnerability — WordPress Security – Cross-Site Request Forgery to Banned IP Address – CVE-2024-1504 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1504?

How does CVE-2024-1504 affect WordPress sites?

How can I check if my site is vulnerable to CVE-2024-1504?

What should I do if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1504?

Can CVE-2024-1504 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

What is Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF)?

Will updating SecuPress Free to fix CVE-2024-1504 affect my website?

Are there alternatives to SecuPress Free that offer better security?

How can I stay informed about future vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

What are the best practices for WordPress site security?

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