SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0961 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-0961?

What is CVE-2024-0961? CVE-2024-0961 refers to a specific security vulnerability found in the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. These attacks can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially compromise the entire website. This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on January 29, 2024, and affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.58.1. It underscores the importance of regular updates and vigilance in maintaining website security.

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, you need to check the version of the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 1.58.1 or below, it is vulnerable to the CVE-2024-0961 security issue. You can check the plugin version by accessing your WordPress dashboard, navigating to the 'Plugins' section, and finding the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle in the list. If your version is outdated, it is crucial to update immediately.

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 SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle, the first step is to update the plugin to version 1.58.2 or higher. This patched version addresses the XSS vulnerability and secures your site against this specific threat. After updating, it's wise to review your website's content for any signs of unauthorized changes or unfamiliar scripts. This could indicate that your site was compromised before the update. If you find anything suspicious, consider reaching out to a security professional to investigate further.

Q: Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes?

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes? CVE-2024-0961 is specific to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin and does not directly affect other plugins or themes. However, it highlights a common type of vulnerability (Stored XSS) that can be present in other WordPress extensions. It's essential to keep all your site's components—plugins, themes, and the WordPress core—regularly updated to protect against similar vulnerabilities across your site's ecosystem.

Q: How does Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) work?

How does Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) work? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts are then stored on the server and executed in the browsers of users who view the infected page. This can lead to a variety of malicious outcomes, including stealing user data, defacing the website, or compromising user accounts. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the malicious script is executed automatically, without needing to trick the user into taking any specific action.

Q: Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Why is it important to update plugins regularly? Regular plugin updates are crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of your WordPress site. Developers often release updates to patch security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve performance. Neglecting plugin updates can leave your site exposed to known security threats, which can be exploited by attackers. Staying updated is a fundamental practice in safeguarding your site against potential breaches.

Q: What is the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

What is the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details? The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is a standardized framework for rating the severity of security vulnerabilities. The CVSS score provides a quantitative measure (ranging from 0 to 10) of the vulnerability's severity based on various factors, such as exploitability and potential impact. A score of 6.4 for CVE-2024-0961 indicates a moderate level of severity, suggesting that while the vulnerability is significant, it's not as critical as higher-scored vulnerabilities. Nonetheless, it should be addressed promptly to maintain security.

Q: Are there alternatives to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin?

Are there alternatives to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin? Yes, there are several alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle. When considering alternatives, look for plugins with good reviews, a strong track record of security, and active developer support. It's important to research and test any alternative plugins to ensure they meet your site's needs and maintain compatibility with your WordPress theme and other plugins.

Q: What are the signs that my website has been compromised?

What are the signs that my website has been compromised? Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to your site's content, unfamiliar user accounts in your WordPress dashboard, sudden drops in website performance, or reports from users about suspicious behavior (such as phishing attempts). If you suspect your site has been compromised, it's important to conduct a thorough review of your site and consult with a security professional to address the breach and secure your site.

Q: How can small business owners stay on top of website security?

How can small business owners stay on top of website security? Small business owners can stay on top of website security by setting up regular maintenance schedules for their websites. This includes updating WordPress, plugins, and themes as soon as new versions are released. Additionally, using security plugins to monitor and protect your site, backing up your website regularly, and staying informed about common security threats can greatly reduce the risk of security breaches. For those who find this daunting, considering a managed WordPress hosting service or hiring a professional to maintain the site's security can be a valuable investment.

By Your WP Guy | January 26, 2024

Plugin Name: SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: so-widgets-bundle
Software Status: Active
Software Author: gpriday
Software Downloads: 37,152,267
Active Installs: 600,000
Last Updated: February 1, 2024
Patched Versions: 1.58.2
Affected Versions: <= 1.58.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle <= 1.58.1
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-2024-0961
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: January 29, 2024
Researcher: Webbernaut
Description: The SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the code editor in all versions up to, and including, 1.58.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. Authenticated attackers, with contributor access or higher, can inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 1.58.1 that allows authenticated attackers to inject malicious scripts. This vulnerability has been patched in version 1.58.2.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability was identified by the researcher Webbernaut and involves Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) within the plugin's code editor. Due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, attackers with at least contributor privileges can embed harmful scripts into web pages. When these pages are accessed by any user, the embedded scripts execute, potentially leading to unauthorized access or other malicious activities. The quick identification and patching of this vulnerability highlight the critical nature of maintaining security in web components.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to version 1.58.2 immediately.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Review your website's pages for unexpected or unfamiliar scripts or content.
Alternate Plugins: Consider using alternative plugins with similar functionality as a precautionary measure until you're able to update.
Stay Updated: Regularly update your plugins to the latest versions to mitigate vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The swift action by the developers of the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle to release a patch for this vulnerability emphasizes the importance of keeping software updated. Users should ensure their installations are updated to version 1.58.2 or later to protect against this XSS vulnerability.

References:

In today’s digital age, where online presence is integral to business success, the security of your website cannot be taken lightly. The discovery of a security vulnerability in the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle—a popular WordPress plugin with over 600,000 active installations—serves as a crucial reminder of the constant vigilance required to protect your digital assets. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-0961, highlights the potential risks that outdated or unpatched software can pose to your website's integrity and user safety.

About the Plugin:

The SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle enhances WordPress websites with a wide range of widgets, making it a favorite among site owners for its versatility and ease of use. Developed by gpriday, this plugin has seen over 37 million downloads, demonstrating its popularity and widespread use within the WordPress community.

Vulnerability Details:

The vulnerability in question, CVE-2024-0961, is classified as Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS). It affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.58.1. This security flaw was publicly disclosed on January 29, 2024, by a researcher known as Webbernaut. The issue arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the plugin's code editor, allowing attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject harmful scripts into web pages.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The primary risk associated with this vulnerability is the unauthorized execution of malicious scripts, which can lead to compromised website integrity, data breaches, and potentially, the hijacking of user sessions. For small business owners, such security breaches can result in significant reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and potential financial liabilities.

Remediation and Advice for Users:

To address this vulnerability, the developers released a patched version of the plugin, 1.58.2. Website owners are urged to update to this latest version immediately to mitigate the risk. Additionally, it's advisable to regularly review your website for unexpected or unfamiliar content, which could indicate a compromise. For those seeking alternatives, considering other plugins with similar functionality may serve as a temporary safeguard until updates are applied.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

It's worth noting that this is not the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle. Since November 27, 2023, there has been at least one other documented security issue, emphasizing the importance of regular monitoring and updates to ensure ongoing security.

Conclusion:

For small business owners juggling numerous responsibilities, staying abreast of every security vulnerability may seem daunting. However, the consequences of overlooking website security can be far more burdensome. Implementing a routine check for updates, utilizing security plugins, and considering professional security services can significantly reduce the risk and free up valuable time. Remember, in the digital realm, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Ensuring that your WordPress site and its plugins are up-to-date is not just about maintaining functionality; it's a critical component of protecting your business and your customers in an increasingly interconnected world.

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.

SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0961 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0961?

CVE-2024-0961 refers to a specific security vulnerability found in the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. These attacks can lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially compromise the entire website.

This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on January 29, 2024, and affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.58.1. It underscores the importance of regular updates and vigilance in maintaining website security.

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

To determine if your website is affected, you need to check the version of the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running version 1.58.1 or below, it is vulnerable to the CVE-2024-0961 security issue.

You can check the plugin version by accessing your WordPress dashboard, navigating to the 'Plugins' section, and finding the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle in the list. If your version is outdated, it is crucial to update immediately.

What should I do if my website is affected?

If your website is running a vulnerable version of the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle, the first step is to update the plugin to version 1.58.2 or higher. This patched version addresses the XSS vulnerability and secures your site against this specific threat.

After updating, it's wise to review your website's content for any signs of unauthorized changes or unfamiliar scripts. This could indicate that your site was compromised before the update. If you find anything suspicious, consider reaching out to a security professional to investigate further.

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes?

CVE-2024-0961 is specific to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin and does not directly affect other plugins or themes. However, it highlights a common type of vulnerability (Stored XSS) that can be present in other WordPress extensions.

It's essential to keep all your site's components—plugins, themes, and the WordPress core—regularly updated to protect against similar vulnerabilities across your site's ecosystem.

How does Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) work?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages. These scripts are then stored on the server and executed in the browsers of users who view the infected page.

This can lead to a variety of malicious outcomes, including stealing user data, defacing the website, or compromising user accounts. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the malicious script is executed automatically, without needing to trick the user into taking any specific action.

Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

Regular plugin updates are crucial for maintaining the security and functionality of your WordPress site. Developers often release updates to patch security vulnerabilities, add new features, or improve performance.

Neglecting plugin updates can leave your site exposed to known security threats, which can be exploited by attackers. Staying updated is a fundamental practice in safeguarding your site against potential breaches.

What is the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

The Common Vulnerability Scoring System (CVSS) is a standardized framework for rating the severity of security vulnerabilities. The CVSS score provides a quantitative measure (ranging from 0 to 10) of the vulnerability's severity based on various factors, such as exploitability and potential impact.

A score of 6.4 for CVE-2024-0961 indicates a moderate level of severity, suggesting that while the vulnerability is significant, it's not as critical as higher-scored vulnerabilities. Nonetheless, it should be addressed promptly to maintain security.

Are there alternatives to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin?

Yes, there are several alternative plugins that offer similar functionality to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle. When considering alternatives, look for plugins with good reviews, a strong track record of security, and active developer support.

It's important to research and test any alternative plugins to ensure they meet your site's needs and maintain compatibility with your WordPress theme and other plugins.

What are the signs that my website has been compromised?

Signs of a compromised website can include unexpected changes to your site's content, unfamiliar user accounts in your WordPress dashboard, sudden drops in website performance, or reports from users about suspicious behavior (such as phishing attempts).

If you suspect your site has been compromised, it's important to conduct a thorough review of your site and consult with a security professional to address the breach and secure your site.

How can small business owners stay on top of website security?

Small business owners can stay on top of website security by setting up regular maintenance schedules for their websites. This includes updating WordPress, plugins, and themes as soon as new versions are released.

Additionally, using security plugins to monitor and protect your site, backing up your website regularly, and staying informed about common security threats can greatly reduce the risk of security breaches. For those who find this daunting, considering a managed WordPress hosting service or hiring a professional to maintain the site's security can be a valuable investment.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-0961, digital asset protection, Plugin Vulnerability, siteorigin widgets bundle, small business website, updating WordPress, Web Security, Website Maintenance, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

About the Plugin:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation and Advice for Users:

Previous Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle Vulnerability- Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2024-0961 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-0961?

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

What should I do if my website is affected?

Can this vulnerability affect other plugins or themes?

How does Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) work?

Why is it important to update plugins regularly?

What is the CVSS score mentioned in the vulnerability details?

Are there alternatives to the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin?

What are the signs that my website has been compromised?

How can small business owners stay on top of website security?

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