Question 1

What exactly is the vulnerability in Booster for WooCommerce?

Accepted Answer

What exactly is the vulnerability in Booster for WooCommerce?

The vulnerability is an information disclosure issue that exists because of insufficient access controls on a shortcode named 'wcj_get_option'. This shortcode can be used by authenticated users, even those with just subscriber privileges, to retrieve sensitive site configuration data. That includes database credentials, API keys, payment information, and other confidential options and info. By embedding the shortcode in a post or page, an attacker can easily expose this data.

Question 2

How serious is this vulnerability? Is it really a big deal?

Accepted Answer

How serious is this vulnerability? Is it really a big deal?

This vulnerability is very serious and poses a substantial security threat. The information disclosure enables significant site compromise. Just getting access to database credentials could allow an attacker to access and manipulate the database. API keys may grant access to integrated services used by the site. The vulnerability basically hands over the keys to the kingdom, providing attackers information useful in further exploitation and takeover of the site.

Question 3

What versions of Booster for WooCommerce are affected?

Accepted Answer

What versions of Booster for WooCommerce are affected?

Versions 7.1.1 and earlier are affected by this vulnerability. The developer has released Booster for WooCommerce version 7.1.2 to patch the problem by adding additional access controls on the problematic shortcode.

Question 4

I use this plugin. What should I do?

Accepted Answer

I use this plugin. What should I do?

If you are running any version of Booster for WooCommerce earlier than 7.1.2, you should update immediately. The latest version addresses this vulnerability by restricting shortcode usage appropriately. If you can't update right away for some reason, you should consider removing the plugin temporarily until you can. At the very least, monitor your site closely for any signs of compromise.

Question 5

How was this vulnerability discovered and disclosed?

Accepted Answer

How was this vulnerability discovered and disclosed?

The vulnerability was discovered and responsibly disclosed to the plugin developer by the Wordfence Threat Intelligence team. They are a well-known and reputable group that routinely audits popular plugins and reports issues properly so they can be fixed. After verifying the problem, the developer promptly published version 7.1.2 to patch it.

Question 6

Could my site have already been hacked by this?

Accepted Answer

Could my site have already been hacked by this?

It's possible if you were running a vulnerable version. You should check your site's posts and pages for any unauthorized shortcode usage that could indicate exploitation. Also look for any evidence of unauthorized access like new users, changed files, strange database activity, etc. If compromised, take the site offline and contact an expert for assistance with incident response and remediation.

Question 7

Is there anything else I should do besides just update?

Accepted Answer

Is there anything else I should do besides just update?

Updating to the latest fixed version is the most critical action. However, you may also want to consider an alternate plugin for that functionality until more details emerge. Some added monitoring of site activity may be prudent as well. And as always, maintain good security hygiene by using strong passwords, limiting access, and updating everything regularly.

Question 8

What if I can't update right away?

Accepted Answer

What if I can't update right away?

If you can't update immediately for whatever reason, you have a few options:

Temporarily remove the plugin
Restrict shortcode usage in the meantime
Closely monitor site activity for any indicators of compromise
Consider using an alternate plugin providing similar functionality

The most secure option is removing the plugin until you can upgrade. Restricting shortcode usage helps minimize risk. Extra monitoring may detect signs of exploitation early. And alternate plugins let you switch functionality while staying protected.

Question 9

How can I prevent this kind of thing in the future?

Accepted Answer

How can I prevent this kind of thing in the future?

The best way to avoid vulnerabilities in plugins is to keep them updated regularly. Sign up for plugin notifications, test updates on a staging environment first, and don't delay on upgrades. Also periodically audit the security of plugins, themes, core WordPress and other components on your site to catch issues early. Consider engaging a managed service provider or expert to handle this security work for you.

Question 10

Is WordPress safe to use? Should I switch from WordPress because of vulnerabilities like this?

Accepted Answer

Is WordPress safe to use? Should I switch from WordPress because of vulnerabilities like this?

WordPress is very safe when implemented properly and kept up to date. The core software itself has a great security track record. However, third party plugins and themes can introduce risks if they contain flaws. Limiting plugins, vetting them carefully, and staying current with updates will keep your WordPress site secure. There is no need to switch from WordPress over incidents like this, as long as you follow secure site management practices.

Patch

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Additional Resources

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