Sydney Toolbox Vulnerability – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Filterable Gallery – CVE-2024-3208 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Plugin Name: Sydney Toolbox

Key Information:

• Software Type: Plugin
• Software Slug: sydney-toolbox
• Software Status: Active
• Software Author: athemes
• Software Downloads: 2,211,650
• Active Installs: 80,000
• Last Updated: April 8, 2024
• Patched Versions: 1.29
• Affected Versions: <= 1.28

Vulnerability Details:

• Name: Sydney Toolbox <= 1.28
• Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Filterable Gallery
• Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
• CVE: CVE-2024-3208
• CVSS Score: 4.3
• Publicly Published: April 5, 2024
• Researcher: wesley
• Description: The Sydney Toolbox plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's Filterable Gallery widget in all versions up to, and including, 1.28 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user supplied attributes. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts into pages, which will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Sydney Toolbox plugin, integral for enhancing WordPress sites with additional functionalities, has been identified with a vulnerability in versions up to 1.28. Designated as CVE-2024-3208, this vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization within the Filterable Gallery widget, enabling authenticated users with sufficient privileges to perform Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks. A patch has been issued in version 1.29 to address this security concern.

Detailed Overview:

Identified by the researcher Wesley, the vulnerability poses a risk to WordPress sites utilizing the Sydney Toolbox plugin, particularly in the use of its Filterable Gallery widget. The flaw allows for the injection of malicious scripts into web pages, potentially compromising the security of the site and its users. The patched version 1.29 rectifies this vulnerability, enhancing the plugin's security against such XSS attacks.

Advice for Users:

• Immediate Action: Users are urged to upgrade the Sydney Toolbox plugin to the patched version 1.29 promptly to mitigate the vulnerability.
• Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Site administrators should monitor for any unusual activity or content that might suggest exploitation of this vulnerability.
• Alternate Plugins: While the updated version addresses this specific vulnerability, users may explore alternative plugins offering similar functionalities with a strong emphasis on security.
• Stay Updated: Maintaining the latest versions of all WordPress plugins is crucial for securing your site against known vulnerabilities.

Conclusion:

The timely update provided by the developers of the Sydney Toolbox plugin to patch CVE-2024-3208 underscores the critical role of software maintenance in the cybersecurity landscape. For WordPress site operators, especially those managing business websites, staying informed about and promptly applying software updates is essential for safeguarding digital assets against potential threats. In the dynamic realm of cybersecurity, proactive vigilance and adherence to best practices are indispensable for maintaining a secure online presence.

References:

• Wordfence Vulnerability Report for CVE-2024-3208
• Additional Vulnerability Information on Sydney Toolbox

Detailed Report: 

In today’s digital landscape, where websites form the backbone of both business and personal ventures, the importance of security cannot be overstated. The recent identification of a vulnerability in the Sydney Toolbox plugin for WordPress, tagged as CVE-2024-3208, underscores the perpetual need for vigilance in the digital realm. This vulnerability exposes websites to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attacks through the plugin's Filterable Gallery widget, impacting versions up to 1.28. It serves as a potent reminder of the delicate balance between functionality and security, emphasizing the importance of keeping digital infrastructure not only functional but secure.

Vulnerability Details:

The vulnerability, CVE-2024-3208, was discovered by researcher Wesley and pertains to insufficient input sanitization within the Filterable Gallery widget. This flaw enables authenticated users with at least contributor-level access to execute arbitrary scripts, potentially compromising site security and data integrity. Recognizing the gravity of this issue, a patch was issued in version 1.29 to mitigate the risk.

Risks and Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data leaks, and potentially damage the trustworthiness of affected sites. It highlights the risks associated with outdated plugins and the potential consequences of security oversights.

Remediation:

To safeguard against this vulnerability, users are advised to:

• Update: Immediately upgrade to the patched version 1.29.
• Monitor: Regularly review site activities for signs of unauthorized access or exploitation.
• Consider Alternatives: Explore other plugins offering similar functionalities with a strong focus on security.
• Stay Updated: Keep all WordPress components, including plugins and themes, up-to-date.

Conclusion:

The swift response to patch CVE-2024-3208 by the developers of the Sydney Toolbox plugin emphasizes the critical role of timely software updates in maintaining site security. For small business owners who utilize WordPress, this incident serves as a crucial reminder of the ongoing necessity for diligence in software maintenance and cybersecurity awareness. In the ever-changing landscape of digital threats, proactive measures and informed decisions are key to ensuring a secure online presence.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

This is not the first instance of vulnerabilities within the Sydney Toolbox plugin, with two other issues reported since February 14, 2024. This history further stresses the importance of regular security reviews and updates as part of a comprehensive digital security strategy.

Staying Secure

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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.

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