Stackable Vulnerability – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Posts Block – CVE-2024-2039 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-2039?

What is CVE-2024-2039? CVE-2024-2039 refers to a security vulnerability identified within the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions up to and including 3.12.11. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to exploit Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) by injecting malicious scripts via the plugin's Posts Block feature. The risk associated with this vulnerability is significant as it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web page content, and potential compromise of user data. Addressing this vulnerability promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites utilizing this plugin.

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 by CVE-2024-2039, you should first identify the version of the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin you are using. Navigate to the Plugins section of your WordPress dashboard, locate the Stackable plugin, and check the version number. If your plugin version is 3.12.11 or lower, your site is at risk, and you should update the plugin immediately. The patched version, 3.12.12, addresses the vulnerability and restores the plugin's security.

Q: What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-2039 on my WordPress site?

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-2039 on my WordPress site? The impacts of CVE-2024-2039 can vary but primarily include the potential for unauthorized script execution, which can lead to data breaches, site defacement, and compromise of user information. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can insert malicious code that may be executed by users visiting the compromised pages, posing a significant security risk. Such vulnerabilities undermine the trust users have in your website and can have long-lasting effects on your reputation and user experience. Promptly addressing these issues is essential to protect your site and its visitors.

Q: What steps should I take to fix this vulnerability on my site?

What steps should I take to fix this vulnerability on my site? The immediate step to mitigate CVE-2024-2039 is to update the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin to version 3.12.12 or higher. This version includes the necessary fixes to address the vulnerability. After updating, it's a good practice to audit your website for any signs of compromise or unusual activity that might have occurred before the update. Implementing regular security checks and updates can prevent future vulnerabilities from affecting your site.

Q: Are there alternatives to the Stackable plugin that I can use?

Are there alternatives to the Stackable plugin that I can use? Yes, there are several alternatives to the Stackable plugin that offer similar functionality for enhancing Gutenberg blocks within WordPress. Some popular options include the Ultimate Addons for Gutenberg, CoBlocks, and Kadence Blocks. When considering an alternative, it's important to research each plugin's features, compatibility with your current themes and plugins, and their commitment to security through regular updates. Choosing a plugin with a strong security track record is crucial for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

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

How can I stay informed about potential vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves regularly checking reputable security blogs, subscribing to plugin update notifications, and participating in WordPress community forums. Security plugins and services can also provide real-time alerts and scans to identify vulnerabilities. Regularly reviewing the official WordPress Plugin Directory for updates and security advisories related to your installed plugins is another effective strategy to ensure your site's security.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into web pages, which are then stored on the server and executed in the browsers of users who visit those pages. This can lead to unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, and other malicious activities. Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts can persist on the affected site, potentially impacting multiple users and compromising sensitive information. Addressing XSS vulnerabilities promptly is essential to protect both your site and its users.

Q: Can CVE-2024-2039 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

Can CVE-2024-2039 be exploited by unauthenticated users? CVE-2024-2039 requires authenticated access, meaning an attacker would need to have at least contributor-level permissions on a WordPress site to exploit this vulnerability. This limits the potential pool of attackers to those who already have some level of access to the WordPress dashboard. However, even with this limitation, the vulnerability is still serious, as it could be exploited by users with legitimate access who may have malicious intentions or whose accounts have been compromised.

Q: What does "patched version" mean in the context of WordPress plugins?

What does "patched version" mean in the context of WordPress plugins? In the context of WordPress plugins, a "patched version" refers to an updated release that includes fixes for specific vulnerabilities or bugs identified in earlier versions. When a security flaw like CVE-2024-2039 is discovered in a plugin such as Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks, the developers work to resolve the issue and release a new version of the plugin that addresses the identified risks. For users, updating to this patched version is essential to safeguard their websites against the exploitation of these vulnerabilities. Ensuring your WordPress site uses the patched version of a plugin is a key aspect of website maintenance and security. It closes the door on vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by attackers, helping to protect your site's integrity and the data of its users.

Q: Why is it important for small business owners to stay on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

Why is it important for small business owners to stay on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities? For small business owners, whose resources and time may be limited, staying on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, vulnerabilities can be exploited to compromise website security, potentially leading to data breaches, loss of customer trust, and financial repercussions. Additionally, a compromised website can negatively impact your business's online presence and SEO rankings, leading to decreased visibility and lost revenue. By regularly updating plugins to their patched versions, implementing security best practices, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities, small business owners can significantly reduce the risk of security threats to their websites. This proactive approach to website security not only protects the business but also safeguards the data and privacy of its customers.

By Your WP Guy | March 28, 2024

Plugin Name: Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: stackable-ultimate-gutenberg-blocks
Software Status: Active
Software Author: bfintal
Software Downloads: 2,943,541
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: March 28, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.12.12
Affected Versions: <= 3.12.11

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks <= 3.12.11
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Posts Block
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2039
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 28, 2024
Researchers: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_), Dau Hoang Tai - VNPT-VCI
Description: The plugin is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting through the Post(v2) block title tag due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, allowing attackers with contributor access to inject malicious scripts.

Summary:

The Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin, a widely-used tool for adding advanced functionalities to Gutenberg, has a critical vulnerability in versions up to 3.12.11. This flaw, identified as CVE-2024-2039, arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the Post(v2) block title tag, permitting authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. The vulnerability has been addressed in the updated version 3.12.12.

Detailed Overview:

This vulnerability was uncovered by security researchers Ngô Thiên An and Dau Hoang Tai, shedding light on a significant security gap within a plugin installed on over 100,000 WordPress sites. The nature of Stored Cross-Site Scripting allows malicious scripts injected by attackers to persist within the affected sites, posing risks to site integrity and user data whenever the compromised content is accessed. Prompt action was taken by the plugin developers to release a patch, reinforcing the necessity of quick response in the face of such vulnerabilities.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are urged to update their Stackable plugin to version 3.12.12 immediately to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2024-2039.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Website administrators should review their sites for unusual content or behavior, especially within posts created or edited using the affected versions of the plugin.
Alternate Plugins: While the vulnerability has been patched, users may explore alternative Gutenberg block plugins as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: It's imperative to regularly update all WordPress plugins to their latest versions to protect against known vulnerabilities and maintain site security.

Conclusion:

The resolution of CVE-2024-2039 in the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin highlights the critical role of ongoing vigilance and timely updates in the WordPress ecosystem. By proactively maintaining the currency of their site's plugins, WordPress administrators can significantly reduce the risk of security breaches, ensuring the safety and reliability of their online presence.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the digital tapestry that forms the backbone of modern businesses, WordPress stands out as a platform of choice for its flexibility and the vast array of plugins it supports. Among these, the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin has carved its niche, enabling users to extend the capabilities of the Gutenberg editor with advanced blocks and sophisticated design options. However, the discovery of a significant vulnerability, CVE-2024-2039, in this critical tool highlights an immutable truth of the digital age: vigilance and proactive maintenance are non-negotiable pillars of website security.

Plugin Overview: Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks

Developed by bfintal, Stackable is a cornerstone for over 100,000 WordPress sites, lauded for its ability to enrich content creation with an array of customizable blocks. Despite its popularity and the developer's commitment to innovation, evidenced by over 2.9 million downloads, the plugin was not immune to security pitfalls. In versions up to and including 3.12.11, a loophole was identified that compromised the security of countless websites.

Unveiling the Vulnerability: CVE-2024-2039

CVE-2024-2039 exposes a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability through the Post(v2) block title tag, stemming from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This flaw allowed attackers with contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts, posing a direct threat to site integrity and user data. Discovered by researchers Ngô Thiên An and Dau Hoang Tai, this vulnerability served as a stark reminder of the latent risks in even the most trusted software components.

Potential Impacts and Risks

The implications of CVE-2024-2039 extend beyond mere technical glitches, threatening the very foundation of trust and security that users expect from their digital platforms. Malicious scripts injected through this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized data access, privacy breaches, and a tarnished website reputation, undermining user confidence and potentially leading to significant business repercussions.

Remediation and Proactive Steps

In response to this discovery, the developers swiftly released version 3.12.12, addressing the vulnerability and fortifying the plugin against similar threats. For users, the immediate course of action involves updating to this patched version, coupled with a thorough review of site activity and user roles to preempt any exploitation of the vulnerability. Additionally, considering alternative plugins and maintaining a routine of regular updates are prudent measures to enhance site security.

Navigating Past Vulnerabilities

This incident was not Stackable's first encounter with security challenges; with two previous vulnerabilities reported since March 4, 2022, the plugin's history underscores the ongoing battle between innovation and security. Each vulnerability serves as a learning curve, informing better practices and stronger defenses, contributing to the continuous improvement of the digital ecosystem.

The Imperative of Digital Vigilance

For small business owners, the incident reiterates the critical importance of staying abreast of security updates and vulnerabilities. In an era where your digital presence is inextricably linked to your business identity, the security of your WordPress site transcends technical responsibility—it's a fundamental aspect of your business's integrity and trustworthiness. Adopting a proactive stance towards website maintenance, prioritizing regular updates, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities are essential strategies to safeguard your digital frontier in an ever-evolving cyber 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.

Stackable Vulnerability – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Posts Block – CVE-2024-2039 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2039?

CVE-2024-2039 refers to a security vulnerability identified within the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions up to and including 3.12.11. This vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to exploit Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) by injecting malicious scripts via the plugin's Posts Block feature.

The risk associated with this vulnerability is significant as it could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web page content, and potential compromise of user data. Addressing this vulnerability promptly is crucial to maintaining the security and integrity of WordPress sites utilizing this plugin.

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

To determine if your website is affected by CVE-2024-2039, you should first identify the version of the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin you are using. Navigate to the Plugins section of your WordPress dashboard, locate the Stackable plugin, and check the version number.

If your plugin version is 3.12.11 or lower, your site is at risk, and you should update the plugin immediately. The patched version, 3.12.12, addresses the vulnerability and restores the plugin's security.

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-2039 on my WordPress site?

The impacts of CVE-2024-2039 can vary but primarily include the potential for unauthorized script execution, which can lead to data breaches, site defacement, and compromise of user information. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability can insert malicious code that may be executed by users visiting the compromised pages, posing a significant security risk.

Such vulnerabilities undermine the trust users have in your website and can have long-lasting effects on your reputation and user experience. Promptly addressing these issues is essential to protect your site and its visitors.

What steps should I take to fix this vulnerability on my site?

The immediate step to mitigate CVE-2024-2039 is to update the Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks plugin to version 3.12.12 or higher. This version includes the necessary fixes to address the vulnerability.

After updating, it's a good practice to audit your website for any signs of compromise or unusual activity that might have occurred before the update. Implementing regular security checks and updates can prevent future vulnerabilities from affecting your site.

Are there alternatives to the Stackable plugin that I can use?

Yes, there are several alternatives to the Stackable plugin that offer similar functionality for enhancing Gutenberg blocks within WordPress. Some popular options include the Ultimate Addons for Gutenberg, CoBlocks, and Kadence Blocks.

When considering an alternative, it's important to research each plugin's features, compatibility with your current themes and plugins, and their commitment to security through regular updates. Choosing a plugin with a strong security track record is crucial for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

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

Staying informed about potential vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins involves regularly checking reputable security blogs, subscribing to plugin update notifications, and participating in WordPress community forums. Security plugins and services can also provide real-time alerts and scans to identify vulnerabilities.

Regularly reviewing the official WordPress Plugin Directory for updates and security advisories related to your installed plugins is another effective strategy to ensure your site's security.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into web pages, which are then stored on the server and executed in the browsers of users who visit those pages. This can lead to unauthorized access to user data, session hijacking, and other malicious activities.

Stored XSS is particularly dangerous because the injected scripts can persist on the affected site, potentially impacting multiple users and compromising sensitive information. Addressing XSS vulnerabilities promptly is essential to protect both your site and its users.

Can CVE-2024-2039 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

CVE-2024-2039 requires authenticated access, meaning an attacker would need to have at least contributor-level permissions on a WordPress site to exploit this vulnerability. This limits the potential pool of attackers to those who already have some level of access to the WordPress dashboard.

However, even with this limitation, the vulnerability is still serious, as it could be exploited by users with legitimate access who may have malicious intentions or whose accounts have been compromised.

What does "patched version" mean in the context of WordPress plugins?

In the context of WordPress plugins, a "patched version" refers to an updated release that includes fixes for specific vulnerabilities or bugs identified in earlier versions. When a security flaw like CVE-2024-2039 is discovered in a plugin such as Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks, the developers work to resolve the issue and release a new version of the plugin that addresses the identified risks. For users, updating to this patched version is essential to safeguard their websites against the exploitation of these vulnerabilities.

Ensuring your WordPress site uses the patched version of a plugin is a key aspect of website maintenance and security. It closes the door on vulnerabilities that could otherwise be exploited by attackers, helping to protect your site's integrity and the data of its users.

Why is it important for small business owners to stay on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

For small business owners, whose resources and time may be limited, staying on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, vulnerabilities can be exploited to compromise website security, potentially leading to data breaches, loss of customer trust, and financial repercussions. Additionally, a compromised website can negatively impact your business's online presence and SEO rankings, leading to decreased visibility and lost revenue.

By regularly updating plugins to their patched versions, implementing security best practices, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities, small business owners can significantly reduce the risk of security threats to their websites. This proactive approach to website security not only protects the business but also safeguards the data and privacy of its customers.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2039, digital safety for small businesses, Gutenberg blocks, Plugin Updates, proactive web security, Stackable plugin vulnerability, Website Maintenance, website security best practices, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Plugin Overview: Stackable – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks

Unveiling the Vulnerability: CVE-2024-2039

Potential Impacts and Risks

Remediation and Proactive Steps

Navigating Past Vulnerabilities

The Imperative of Digital Vigilance

Staying Secure

Stackable Vulnerability – Page Builder Gutenberg Blocks – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Posts Block – CVE-2024-2039 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2039?

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

What are the potential impacts of CVE-2024-2039 on my WordPress site?

What steps should I take to fix this vulnerability on my site?

Are there alternatives to the Stackable plugin that I can use?

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

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS), and why is it dangerous?

Can CVE-2024-2039 be exploited by unauthenticated users?

What does "patched version" mean in the context of WordPress plugins?

Why is it important for small business owners to stay on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

Why is it important for small business owners to stay on top of WordPress plugin vulnerabilities?

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