Question 1

What is cross-site scripting (XSS) and why is it dangerous?

Accepted Answer

What is cross-site scripting (XSS) and why is it dangerous?

Cross-site scripting, also known as XSS, is a web vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious code into a website. This malicious code then gets executed in the browser of any user that visits the site. XSS vulnerabilities are dangerous because they can be used to steal session cookies, take over accounts, spread malware, or deface websites. Stored XSS like in this Calendly case is especially serious since the malicious script gets saved in the website's database and will execute for all visitors until it is removed.

Question 2

Could my WordPress site be affected even if I don't use the Calendly plugin?

Accepted Answer

Could my WordPress site be affected even if I don't use the Calendly plugin?

Yes, your site could still be affected even if you don't use Calendly. This case highlights the importance of keeping all plugins, themes, and WordPress core up to date. Other plugins and themes can also contain dangerous vulnerabilities that leave sites compromised until they are patched. Outdated software is one of the biggest security threats to WordPress sites. Treat this vulnerability as a reminder to check that all your software is updated to the latest secure versions.

Question 3

How can I check if my site has been compromised by this vulnerability?

Accepted Answer

How can I check if my site has been compromised by this vulnerability?

To check if your site is affected, first make sure you have updated to the latest version of Calendly if you use it. Then scan through your site content and look for any unauthorized or suspicious shortcodes that may have been added by an attacker exploiting this vulnerability. Also check for any unexpected changes to site content or appearance. If you find anything suspicious, restore from a recent clean backup. You can also install a security plugin like Wordfence to continually scan for malware.

Question 4

I use Calendly on client sites - what's my liability in the event of an exploit?

Accepted Answer

I use Calendly on client sites - what's my liability in the event of an exploit?

As a developer or agency using third-party plugins like Calendly on client sites, you share some responsibility in keeping plugins updated and secure. Make sure your team has a process to monitor and rapidly deploy security updates for plugins used on client sites. Alert clients, especially those running outdated software, to update as soon as vulnerabilities are disclosed. Maintain regular backups you can restore if a site is compromised. Make security a priority in your development and hosting practices to limit liability.

Question 5

What can I do if my site was compromised before I upgraded Calendly?

Accepted Answer

What can I do if my site was compromised before I upgraded Calendly?

If your site was compromised due to this vulnerability before you upgraded, first clean up any malicious code or content introduced by attackers. Scan for malware and change all passwords. Compare with a known good backup to find and remove any backdoors. Notify users about potential account breaches. Determine the scope of the damage and how attackers gained access. Harden site security to prevent future incidents. In severe cases, you may need to take the site offline, clean up on a staging server, and restore from backups.

Question 6

Should I switch from Calendly to an alternate scheduling plugin to be safe?

Accepted Answer

Should I switch from Calendly to an alternate scheduling plugin to be safe?

The updated Calendly plugin is safe to continue using after you upgrade. But as a precaution, some users may opt to switch scheduling plugins, at least temporarily. Alternate plugins to consider include Caldera Forms, Simply Schedule Appointments, Bookly, or WP Simple Booking Calendar. Evaluate alternatives to find one that best fits your needs and has a strong security track record.

Question 7

How can I ensure my plugins and WordPress site stay secure going forward?

Accepted Answer

How can I ensure my plugins and WordPress site stay secure going forward?

Some tips to improve overall WordPress security: Use only well-tested plugins from reputable developers. Limit plugins to only what's essential. Keep everything updated constantly, or enable automatic background updates. Perform frequent backups of your site. Use a secure managed WordPress hosting provider that handles updates and security for you. Install a firewall like Wordfence. Limit user roles and access. Follow WordPress hardening best practices.

Question 8

Should I report vulnerabilities if I find them in a plugin?

Accepted Answer

Should I report vulnerabilities if I find them in a plugin?

Absolutely. If you discover a vulnerability in a plugin or theme, responsibly report it to the developer right away. Security researchers can also report through the WordPress plugin bug bounty program. This helps get vulnerabilities patched faster before they can be exploited. Whatever you do, avoid publishing details publicly before the developer has time to fix it, as that puts thousands of sites at risk.

Question 9

Is this Calendly vulnerability going to impact the company's business reputation?

Accepted Answer

Is this Calendly vulnerability going to impact the company's business reputation?

Issues like this are quite common in the software industry and don't tend to hurt reputations by themselves if handled well. The Calendly developers responded admirably by releasing a patch in a very timely manner after private disclosure. This is a great example of the process working smoothly. Providing prompt security updates is a mark of good software. As long as the developer continues prioritizing security, this flaw is unlikely to have a major impact on their standing.

Question 10

Should I avoid Calendly and other third-party services because of potential security risks?

Accepted Answer

Should I avoid Calendly and other third-party services because of potential security risks?

Reputable services like Calendly go through extensive security reviews and testing. The risks from integrating secure, quality software are minimal compared to the benefits. Every service has occasional vulnerabilities. As long as the vendor responds appropriately with rapid patches and transparency, it's fine to continue using their software with proper precautions like updates and backups. Avoid integrating new or unproven software without thorough vetting. Monitor integrations for emerging threats. With care, third-party services safely enhance WordPress sites.

Patched Version 3.7

WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report – Embed Calendly – Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting – CVE-2023-4995

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