Site Reviews Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Display Name – CVE-2024-2293 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-2293 in the context of the Site Reviews plugin?

What is CVE-2024-2293 in the context of the Site Reviews plugin? CVE-2024-2293 refers to a security vulnerability identified in the Site Reviews WordPress plugin, versions up to 6.11.4. This vulnerability allows authenticated users, with subscriber-level access or higher, to exploit insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, enabling them to inject malicious scripts via the display name feature. These injected scripts can be executed by other users accessing the affected pages, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation. It is crucial for website administrators to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk.

Q: How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability? To determine if your website is affected, check the version of the Site Reviews plugin you are currently using. If your version is 6.11.4 or lower, your website is vulnerable to CVE-2024-2293. It is recommended to regularly review your website’s plugin versions and update them as new versions are released. Staying informed about security vulnerabilities through trusted security news sources or directly from the plugin developers can also help in identifying potential risks.

Q: What should I do if my website is affected?

What should I do if my website is affected? If your website is running a vulnerable version of the Site Reviews plugin, you should immediately update to version 6.11.7 or higher. This patched version addresses the identified security issue and restores the plugin's integrity. After updating, it may be wise to review your site for any unusual activity or content changes, as these could indicate past exploitation. If suspicious activity is found, further investigation and potential remediation steps should be taken.

Q: Are there alternative plugins I can use?

Are there alternative plugins I can use? While the patched version of Site Reviews (6.11.7) resolves the vulnerability, you may be considering alternative plugins for your review management needs. When evaluating alternatives, look for plugins with strong security practices, regular updates, and good user reviews. Ensure any new plugin you choose is compatible with your WordPress version and other installed plugins. It’s also beneficial to check for any known vulnerabilities of the alternatives to make informed decisions.

Q: How can I stay updated on plugin vulnerabilities?

How can I stay updated on plugin vulnerabilities? Staying updated on plugin vulnerabilities involves regularly checking trusted cybersecurity news sources, subscribing to security bulletins, and following the developers of the plugins you use. Many developers announce vulnerabilities and patches through their websites or social media channels. WordPress also has built-in features that notify you of available updates, including security patches, which can be an essential tool in maintaining your site’s security.

Q: What are the potential impacts of this vulnerability?

What are the potential impacts of this vulnerability? The CVE-2024-2293 vulnerability in the Site Reviews plugin can lead to unauthorized script execution, potentially compromising site integrity and user privacy. Attackers could exploit this to access sensitive information, manipulate site content, or distribute malicious content to site visitors. The severity of the impact depends on the nature of the injected scripts and the attacker's intentions, emphasizing the need for immediate remediation.

Q: Can this vulnerability affect my site’s SEO?

Can this vulnerability affect my site’s SEO? Yes, vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2293 can indirectly affect your site's SEO. If attackers use the vulnerability to inject malicious content or redirect visitors to harmful sites, search engines may flag your site as unsafe, impacting your rankings and visitor trust. Maintaining a secure site is crucial for SEO success, highlighting the importance of addressing vulnerabilities promptly.

Q: What is cross-site scripting (XSS)?

What is cross-site scripting (XSS)? Cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into webpages viewed by other users. These scripts can steal information, deface websites, or perform actions on behalf of the user without their consent. XSS vulnerabilities highlight the necessity for careful input handling and sanitization in web applications to prevent unauthorized script execution.

Q: How does WordPress handle plugin vulnerabilities?

How does WordPress handle plugin vulnerabilities? WordPress has a proactive approach to security, including a dedicated Security Team that works on identifying and patching vulnerabilities. When a vulnerability is discovered, WordPress often collaborates with the plugin developer to release a patched version. Site administrators are then notified of available updates through their WordPress dashboard, facilitating timely application of security patches.

Q: Why is it important to keep plugins updated?

Why is it important to keep plugins updated? Keeping plugins updated is vital for website security, functionality, and compatibility. Developers regularly release updates to address security vulnerabilities, introduce new features, and improve performance. Failing to update plugins can leave your site exposed to known vulnerabilities, risking unauthorized access, data breaches, and compromised site integrity. Regular updates ensure your site remains secure, functional, and compliant with the latest web standards.

By Your WP Guy | March 11, 2024

Plugin Name: Site Reviews

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: site-reviews
Software Status: Active
Software Author: geminilabs
Software Downloads: 2,210,571
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: March 13, 2024
Patched Versions: 6.11.7
Affected Versions: <= 6.11.4

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Site Reviews <= 6.11.4
Title: Authenticated(Subscriber+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Display Name
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2293
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 11, 2024
Researcher: stealthcopter
Description: The Site Reviews plugin for WordPress has been found vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks through insufficiently sanitized and escaped user display names in versions up to and including 6.11.4. Authenticated users with subscriber-level permissions or higher can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts that are executed when other users view the affected pages.

Summary:

The Site Reviews plugin, widely utilized for integrating review functionality into WordPress sites, has been compromised in versions up to 6.11.4, allowing for Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks via the user display name. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-2293, poses a significant threat to site security and user privacy but has been effectively patched in version 6.11.7.

Detailed Overview:

Security researcher stealthcopter uncovered this vulnerability, emphasizing the critical need for robust data sanitization and validation within plugins. The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to various security issues, including unauthorized data access, website defacement, and the potential spread of malware. The update to version 6.11.7 addresses this issue by implementing enhanced sanitization and escaping mechanisms.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 6.11.7 of the Site Reviews plugin immediately to protect your WordPress site from potential exploits.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly monitor your website for any suspicious activities or content alterations, which may indicate the exploitation of this vulnerability.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version resolves this specific vulnerability, exploring alternative review plugins might offer additional security features or functionalities better suited to your needs.
Stay Updated: Ensuring that all WordPress themes, plugins, and core installations are updated to their latest versions is crucial for maintaining site security and functionality.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-2293 within the Site Reviews plugin underscores the ongoing importance of maintaining security vigilance within the WordPress ecosystem. For WordPress site administrators, especially those managing small businesses or personal blogs, the commitment to regular software updates and an awareness of security best practices is essential for protecting digital assets. Proactive security measures are key to ensuring a secure and trustworthy online environment for all users.

References:

Wordfence Vulnerability Report on Site Reviews
Additional Information on Site Reviews Vulnerabilities

In an era where digital presence is indispensable, ensuring the security of your WordPress website is paramount. A recent discovery of a vulnerability in the "Site Reviews" plugin, widely utilized for integrating user reviews into WordPress sites, highlights the constant vigilance required to safeguard digital assets. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-2293, presents a significant risk to site integrity and user privacy, underscoring the necessity of keeping your website's components up to date.

Vulnerability Insights:

CVE-2024-2293 exposes a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw within the Site Reviews plugin, specifically through the user's display name. Versions up to and including 6.11.4 are affected due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping. This flaw allows authenticated users, with subscriber-level permissions or higher, to execute arbitrary web scripts, compromising the security and privacy of site users and administrators alike.

Implications and Risks:

The vulnerability poses a multifaceted threat, enabling potential attackers to undertake a range of malicious activities from unauthorized data access and modification to the distribution of malware. The inherent risk of Stored XSS attacks lies in their persistence; the injected malicious scripts can remain unnoticed within the website, activating whenever the compromised content is accessed.

Mitigation and User Guidance:

To address this vulnerability, the plugin developers have released a patched version, 6.11.7. Site owners using Site Reviews are urged to update to this latest version immediately to secure their sites. Additionally, it's advisable to:

Regularly audit site activities and review user permissions to detect any unusual or unauthorized changes promptly.
Consider alternative plugins if they better align with your site's security and functional requirements.

Historical Context:

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in the Site Reviews plugin, with 9 previous instances recorded since May 2018. Each incident serves as a learning opportunity and a reminder of the dynamic nature of cybersecurity threats.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-2293 within the Site Reviews plugin serves as a critical reminder for all WordPress site owners, especially small business operators with limited IT support, about the importance of regular software updates. Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities and adopting proactive security measures are indispensable strategies for protecting digital assets in an ever-evolving cyber threat landscape. Vigilance and prompt action in updating software components are key to maintaining a secure and trustworthy online environment.

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.

Site Reviews Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Display Name – CVE-2024-2293 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2293 in the context of the Site Reviews plugin?

CVE-2024-2293 refers to a security vulnerability identified in the Site Reviews WordPress plugin, versions up to 6.11.4. This vulnerability allows authenticated users, with subscriber-level access or higher, to exploit insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, enabling them to inject malicious scripts via the display name feature.

These injected scripts can be executed by other users accessing the affected pages, potentially leading to unauthorized data access or manipulation. It is crucial for website administrators to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk.

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

To determine if your website is affected, check the version of the Site Reviews plugin you are currently using. If your version is 6.11.4 or lower, your website is vulnerable to CVE-2024-2293.

It is recommended to regularly review your website’s plugin versions and update them as new versions are released. Staying informed about security vulnerabilities through trusted security news sources or directly from the plugin developers can also help in identifying potential risks.

What should I do if my website is affected?

If your website is running a vulnerable version of the Site Reviews plugin, you should immediately update to version 6.11.7 or higher. This patched version addresses the identified security issue and restores the plugin's integrity.

After updating, it may be wise to review your site for any unusual activity or content changes, as these could indicate past exploitation. If suspicious activity is found, further investigation and potential remediation steps should be taken.

Are there alternative plugins I can use?

While the patched version of Site Reviews (6.11.7) resolves the vulnerability, you may be considering alternative plugins for your review management needs. When evaluating alternatives, look for plugins with strong security practices, regular updates, and good user reviews.

Ensure any new plugin you choose is compatible with your WordPress version and other installed plugins. It’s also beneficial to check for any known vulnerabilities of the alternatives to make informed decisions.

How can I stay updated on plugin vulnerabilities?

Staying updated on plugin vulnerabilities involves regularly checking trusted cybersecurity news sources, subscribing to security bulletins, and following the developers of the plugins you use. Many developers announce vulnerabilities and patches through their websites or social media channels.

WordPress also has built-in features that notify you of available updates, including security patches, which can be an essential tool in maintaining your site’s security.

What are the potential impacts of this vulnerability?

The CVE-2024-2293 vulnerability in the Site Reviews plugin can lead to unauthorized script execution, potentially compromising site integrity and user privacy. Attackers could exploit this to access sensitive information, manipulate site content, or distribute malicious content to site visitors.

The severity of the impact depends on the nature of the injected scripts and the attacker's intentions, emphasizing the need for immediate remediation.

Can this vulnerability affect my site’s SEO?

Yes, vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-2293 can indirectly affect your site's SEO. If attackers use the vulnerability to inject malicious content or redirect visitors to harmful sites, search engines may flag your site as unsafe, impacting your rankings and visitor trust.

Maintaining a secure site is crucial for SEO success, highlighting the importance of addressing vulnerabilities promptly.

What is cross-site scripting (XSS)?

Cross-site scripting, or XSS, is a security vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into webpages viewed by other users. These scripts can steal information, deface websites, or perform actions on behalf of the user without their consent.

XSS vulnerabilities highlight the necessity for careful input handling and sanitization in web applications to prevent unauthorized script execution.

How does WordPress handle plugin vulnerabilities?

WordPress has a proactive approach to security, including a dedicated Security Team that works on identifying and patching vulnerabilities. When a vulnerability is discovered, WordPress often collaborates with the plugin developer to release a patched version.

Site administrators are then notified of available updates through their WordPress dashboard, facilitating timely application of security patches.

Why is it important to keep plugins updated?

Keeping plugins updated is vital for website security, functionality, and compatibility. Developers regularly release updates to address security vulnerabilities, introduce new features, and improve performance.

Failing to update plugins can leave your site exposed to known vulnerabilities, risking unauthorized access, data breaches, and compromised site integrity. Regular updates ensure your site remains secure, functional, and compliant with the latest web standards.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged Cross-Site Scripting, CVE-2024-2293, Cybersecurity, Plugin Update, security vulnerability, Site Reviews Plugin, Website Protection, WordPress, wordpress security, XSS

Plugin Name: Site Reviews

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Vulnerability Insights:

Implications and Risks:

Mitigation and User Guidance:

Historical Context:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Site Reviews Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Display Name – CVE-2024-2293 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2293 in the context of the Site Reviews plugin?

How can I check if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

What should I do if my website is affected?

Are there alternative plugins I can use?

How can I stay updated on plugin vulnerabilities?

What are the potential impacts of this vulnerability?

Can this vulnerability affect my site’s SEO?

What is cross-site scripting (XSS)?

How does WordPress handle plugin vulnerabilities?

Why is it important to keep plugins updated?

Why is it important to keep plugins updated?

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