Simple Membership Vulnerability- Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1985 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1985?

What is CVE-2024-1985? CVE-2024-1985 is a vulnerability identifier for a specific security issue found in the Simple Membership plugin for WordPress. This issue pertains to an Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that was present in versions of the plugin up to and including 4.4.2. This vulnerability allowed attackers to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts on a website through the 'Display Name' field. Despite requiring user interaction for exploitation, the vulnerability posed a significant risk to the security of websites using the affected versions of the plugin.

Q: How does XSS vulnerability affect a WordPress site?

How does XSS vulnerability affect a WordPress site? Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities, like CVE-2024-1985, can have a range of impacts on a WordPress site, from minor nuisances to significant security breaches. By exploiting an XSS flaw, an attacker could execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information, session hijacking, or defacement of the website. The specific vulnerability in Simple Membership required a user to log in with an account containing the malicious script, which could lead to compromised administrative accounts or unauthorized access to restricted content, underlining the necessity of vigilance and timely updates.

Q: Who is at risk from this vulnerability?

Who is at risk from this vulnerability? Any WordPress site using the Simple Membership plugin with versions up to and including 4.4.2 was at risk from the CVE-2024-1985 vulnerability. The risk was particularly pronounced for websites where users, including contributors and members, could modify their 'Display Name' or other profile fields, as these fields could be used to inject malicious scripts. Site administrators and users with the capability to modify affected fields needed to exercise caution and update the plugin to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability's reliance on user interaction to exploit also highlighted the importance of educating users on the risks of social engineering tactics.

Q: How can I check if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1985?

How can I check if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1985? To determine if your site is affected by CVE-2024-1985, you should check the version of the Simple Membership plugin installed on your WordPress site. This can be done by accessing the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, where the installed version number is displayed next to the plugin name. If your site is running Simple Membership version 4.4.2 or lower, it is vulnerable to the CVE-2024-1985 vulnerability. Immediate action to update the plugin is recommended.

Q: What should I do if my site uses a vulnerable version of Simple Membership?

What should I do if my site uses a vulnerable version of Simple Membership? If your site is running a vulnerable version of the Simple Membership plugin, the most immediate and effective action is to update the plugin to version 4.4.3 or higher, where the vulnerability has been patched. This update can usually be performed directly from the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard. After updating, it's wise to review user profiles for any unusual or suspicious entries, especially in fields like 'Display Name,' that could have been used to exploit the vulnerability. Regular monitoring and updates are crucial for maintaining site security.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins to Simple Membership?

Are there any alternative plugins to Simple Membership? Yes, there are several alternative membership plugins available for WordPress that offer various features and levels of security. When considering alternatives, it's important to assess the plugin's functionality, user reviews, and, importantly, the developer's responsiveness to security issues and updates. Before switching to a new plugin, ensure it meets your site's requirements and thoroughly test it in a staging environment to prevent compatibility issues with your site's theme or other plugins.

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

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities involves regularly checking for updates in your WordPress dashboard, following security blogs and forums dedicated to WordPress, and subscribing to newsletters from reputable security researchers and companies. WordPress security plugins can also provide real-time alerts for known vulnerabilities and recommended actions. Actively participating in the WordPress community through forums and social media can further enhance your awareness of emerging threats and best practices.

Q: Can updating the Simple Membership plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

Can updating the Simple Membership plugin cause compatibility issues with my site? While updating plugins is crucial for security, there is always a potential for compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To minimize this risk, it's recommended to first test plugin updates in a staging environment, which is an exact copy of your live site but not publicly accessible. If any issues arise during or after the update, consult the plugin's support forums or consider reaching out to a WordPress professional for assistance. Keeping regular backups of your site is also important to quickly restore functionality if needed.

Q: What long-term security practices should I implement for my WordPress site?

What long-term security practices should I implement for my WordPress site? For long-term security, it's essential to maintain a routine of regular updates for all components of your WordPress site, including the core software, themes, and plugins. Implement strong password policies, use two-factor authentication where possible, and limit user permissions to only what is necessary. Additionally, employing a reputable security plugin can help monitor your site for vulnerabilities and attempted breaches. Regular backups, ideally off-site, ensure you can quickly recover your site in the event of a security incident.

Q: Where can I find more information about securing my WordPress site?

Where can I find more information about securing my WordPress site? For comprehensive information on securing your WordPress site, the WordPress Codex offers detailed guidelines and best practices. Additionally, numerous blogs and online resources are dedicated to WordPress security, such as Wordfence, Sucuri, and WPBeginner. Engaging with the WordPress community through forums, social media, and attending WordCamps can provide valuable insights and updates on security best practices and emerging threats.

By Your WP Guy | March 5, 2024

Plugin Name: Simple Membership

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: simple-membership
Software Status: Active
Software Author: mra13
Software Downloads: 2,421,375
Active Installs: 50,000
Last Updated: March 7, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.4.3
Affected Versions: <= 4.4.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Simple Membership <= 4.4.2
Title: Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-1985
CVSS Score: 4.7
Publicly Published: March 5, 2024
Researcher: stealthcopter
Description: The vulnerability in the Simple Membership plugin stems from inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, particularly in the 'Display Name' parameter, in versions up to and including 4.4.2. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts on pages, contingent upon social engineering tactics to deceive a user into logging in with an account containing the malicious payload.

Summary:

The Simple Membership plugin for WordPress has encountered a security issue in versions up to 4.4.2, where attackers could leverage Stored Cross-Site Scripting through the 'Display Name' field. This vulnerability, addressed in version 4.4.3, required specific conditions for exploitation, including user interaction.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability, identified by the researcher known as stealthcopter, underscores the intricate nature of web security, where even seemingly minor inputs like a 'Display Name' field can become vectors for XSS attacks. The self-based nature of this XSS means the attacker would need to convince an admin or a user with sufficient privileges to adopt a malicious display name, highlighting the role of social engineering in exploiting web vulnerabilities. The limited impact due to these requirements does not diminish the need for prompt remediation.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update the Simple Membership plugin to version 4.4.3 immediately to mitigate the vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should scrutinize user profiles for unusual 'Display Names' or other fields that might contain suspicious scripts, especially if unexpected behavior is observed on the site.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version addresses this issue, users may consider alternative membership plugins if they seek additional features or different security protocols.
Stay Updated: Keeping all WordPress components up to date is crucial. Regularly check for updates and apply them promptly to ensure the security and functionality of your site.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-1985 in the Simple Membership plugin exemplifies the ongoing challenge of maintaining secure web applications. It serves as a reminder of the potential for even well-intentioned features to be exploited and the critical importance of regular software updates. By adhering to best practices for web security, including timely updates and user education on social engineering tactics, WordPress site administrators can better protect their sites and users from potential threats.

References:

In today's digital ecosystem, the security of a website is paramount, particularly when it comes to plugins that enhance functionality but can also introduce vulnerabilities. The recent discovery of a significant vulnerability within the Simple Membership plugin for WordPress, designated as CVE-2024-1985, casts a spotlight on the ongoing battle between functionality and security. This vulnerability, an Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw, reveals the intricate ways in which threat actors can exploit seemingly innocuous features, like a 'Display Name' field, to compromise the integrity and security of countless websites.

Plugin Overview:

Simple Membership, a plugin developed by mra13, is a staple for WordPress sites requiring membership management capabilities. With over 2.4 million downloads and 50,000 active installations, its role in content access control is significant. As of March 7, 2024, the plugin was last updated to version 4.4.3, addressing the vulnerabilities present in versions up to 4.4.2.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-1985 unveils a vulnerability where insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the 'Display Name' parameter can lead to Stored XSS attacks. This vulnerability was made public on March 5, 2024, by a researcher known as stealthcopter, who highlighted the need for user interaction and social engineering for successful exploitation. Despite the high access complexity and the requirement for user interaction, the potential for arbitrary script execution by unauthenticated attackers remains a concern.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The primary risk of CVE-2024-1985 lies in its capacity to compromise site integrity and user data security. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious scripts, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation. While the self-based nature of the XSS requires a user to log in with an account containing the malicious payload, the threat posed to site administrators and members is non-negligible, underlining the critical nature of this security flaw.

Remediation and User Guidance:

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2024-1985, users of the Simple Membership plugin must promptly update to version 4.4.3, which contains the necessary security enhancements. Administrators should also conduct thorough reviews of user profiles, particularly focusing on 'Display Names' and other modifiable fields for signs of suspicious activity. While the patched version rectifies this specific vulnerability, exploring alternative membership plugins with robust security features may provide additional peace of mind.

Historical Context:

The Simple Membership plugin has encountered 17 vulnerabilities since July 14, 2016, each serving as a reminder of the persistent security challenges within the plugin ecosystem. These instances underscore the importance of ongoing vigilance and the need for regular updates to safeguard against emerging threats.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-1985 in the Simple Membership plugin is a testament to the continuous efforts required to maintain secure web applications. For small business owners managing WordPress sites, this incident underscores the critical importance of staying informed about potential vulnerabilities and implementing timely updates. Adhering to best practices for web security, including regular software updates and user education on potential social engineering tactics, is essential in protecting your digital assets and maintaining the trust of your users in an increasingly complex cybersecurity landscape.

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.

Simple Membership Vulnerability- Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1985 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1985?

CVE-2024-1985 is a vulnerability identifier for a specific security issue found in the Simple Membership plugin for WordPress. This issue pertains to an Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability that was present in versions of the plugin up to and including 4.4.2.

This vulnerability allowed attackers to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts on a website through the 'Display Name' field. Despite requiring user interaction for exploitation, the vulnerability posed a significant risk to the security of websites using the affected versions of the plugin.

How does XSS vulnerability affect a WordPress site?

Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities, like CVE-2024-1985, can have a range of impacts on a WordPress site, from minor nuisances to significant security breaches. By exploiting an XSS flaw, an attacker could execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's session, potentially leading to unauthorized access to sensitive information, session hijacking, or defacement of the website.

The specific vulnerability in Simple Membership required a user to log in with an account containing the malicious script, which could lead to compromised administrative accounts or unauthorized access to restricted content, underlining the necessity of vigilance and timely updates.

Who is at risk from this vulnerability?

Any WordPress site using the Simple Membership plugin with versions up to and including 4.4.2 was at risk from the CVE-2024-1985 vulnerability. The risk was particularly pronounced for websites where users, including contributors and members, could modify their 'Display Name' or other profile fields, as these fields could be used to inject malicious scripts.

Site administrators and users with the capability to modify affected fields needed to exercise caution and update the plugin to mitigate the risk. The vulnerability's reliance on user interaction to exploit also highlighted the importance of educating users on the risks of social engineering tactics.

How can I check if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1985?

To determine if your site is affected by CVE-2024-1985, you should check the version of the Simple Membership plugin installed on your WordPress site. This can be done by accessing the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard, where the installed version number is displayed next to the plugin name.

If your site is running Simple Membership version 4.4.2 or lower, it is vulnerable to the CVE-2024-1985 vulnerability. Immediate action to update the plugin is recommended.

What should I do if my site uses a vulnerable version of Simple Membership?

If your site is running a vulnerable version of the Simple Membership plugin, the most immediate and effective action is to update the plugin to version 4.4.3 or higher, where the vulnerability has been patched. This update can usually be performed directly from the 'Plugins' section of your WordPress dashboard.

After updating, it's wise to review user profiles for any unusual or suspicious entries, especially in fields like 'Display Name,' that could have been used to exploit the vulnerability. Regular monitoring and updates are crucial for maintaining site security.

Are there any alternative plugins to Simple Membership?

Yes, there are several alternative membership plugins available for WordPress that offer various features and levels of security. When considering alternatives, it's important to assess the plugin's functionality, user reviews, and, importantly, the developer's responsiveness to security issues and updates.

Before switching to a new plugin, ensure it meets your site's requirements and thoroughly test it in a staging environment to prevent compatibility issues with your site's theme or other plugins.

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Staying informed about WordPress plugin vulnerabilities involves regularly checking for updates in your WordPress dashboard, following security blogs and forums dedicated to WordPress, and subscribing to newsletters from reputable security researchers and companies.

WordPress security plugins can also provide real-time alerts for known vulnerabilities and recommended actions. Actively participating in the WordPress community through forums and social media can further enhance your awareness of emerging threats and best practices.

Can updating the Simple Membership plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

While updating plugins is crucial for security, there is always a potential for compatibility issues with other plugins, themes, or custom code on your site. To minimize this risk, it's recommended to first test plugin updates in a staging environment, which is an exact copy of your live site but not publicly accessible.

If any issues arise during or after the update, consult the plugin's support forums or consider reaching out to a WordPress professional for assistance. Keeping regular backups of your site is also important to quickly restore functionality if needed.

What long-term security practices should I implement for my WordPress site?

For long-term security, it's essential to maintain a routine of regular updates for all components of your WordPress site, including the core software, themes, and plugins. Implement strong password policies, use two-factor authentication where possible, and limit user permissions to only what is necessary.

Additionally, employing a reputable security plugin can help monitor your site for vulnerabilities and attempted breaches. Regular backups, ideally off-site, ensure you can quickly recover your site in the event of a security incident.

Where can I find more information about securing my WordPress site?

For comprehensive information on securing your WordPress site, the WordPress Codex offers detailed guidelines and best practices. Additionally, numerous blogs and online resources are dedicated to WordPress security, such as Wordfence, Sucuri, and WPBeginner.

Engaging with the WordPress community through forums, social media, and attending WordCamps can provide valuable insights and updates on security best practices and emerging threats.

Share this post:

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

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, CVE-2024-1985, Cybersecurity, Membership Plugin Security, Plugin Updates, simple membership, Web Application Security, Website Protection, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Simple Membership

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation and User Guidance:

Historical Context:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Simple Membership Vulnerability- Unauthenticated Stored Self-Based Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-1985 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1985?

How does XSS vulnerability affect a WordPress site?

Who is at risk from this vulnerability?

How can I check if my site is affected by CVE-2024-1985?

What should I do if my site uses a vulnerable version of Simple Membership?

Are there any alternative plugins to Simple Membership?

How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Can updating the Simple Membership plugin cause compatibility issues with my site?

What long-term security practices should I implement for my WordPress site?

Where can I find more information about securing my WordPress site?

Where can I find more information about securing my WordPress site?

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