Translate WordPress and go Multilingual Vulnerability– Weglot – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes – CVE-2024-2124 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-2124?

What is CVE-2024-2124? CVE-2024-2124 is a security vulnerability identifier assigned to a specific issue found in the Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot plugin. This vulnerability was discovered in versions up to 4.2.5 and involves Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) due to insufficient sanitization of user-supplied attributes, allowing malicious script injection. Addressing this vulnerability is crucial as it can compromise website security by allowing attackers with contributor-level access to execute arbitrary scripts. This could potentially lead to unauthorized actions being taken on the website, compromising both the site's integrity and user safety.

Q: How can I check if my website is affected by CVE-2024-2124?

How can I check if my website is affected by CVE-2024-2124? To determine if your website is affected by CVE-2024-2124, you need to check the version of the Weglot plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running a version of Weglot that is 4.2.5 or older, it is vulnerable to this XSS issue. You can find the version of your installed plugins by navigating to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard. It's recommended to regularly check for and apply updates to all your plugins to ensure your website's security.

Q: How do I update the Weglot plugin to address this vulnerability?

How do I update the Weglot plugin to address this vulnerability? Updating the Weglot plugin to address CVE-2024-2124 involves accessing your WordPress dashboard and navigating to the 'Plugins' section. If an update is available for Weglot, you will see an 'Update Now' link next to the plugin. Clicking this link will initiate the update process to the latest version, which includes the security patch for this vulnerability. Before updating, ensure you have a recent backup of your website. This way, if any compatibility issues arise with the new version of the plugin, you can restore your site to its previous state.

Q: What are the potential consequences of not updating the Weglot plugin?

What are the potential consequences of not updating the Weglot plugin? Failing to update the Weglot plugin to patch the CVE-2024-2124 vulnerability can leave your site exposed to XSS attacks. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into your web pages, which can then be executed by other users or administrators. Such attacks can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web content, and potentially taking over the entire website. It's essential to update the plugin promptly to mitigate these risks and protect your website and its users.

Q: Are there any alternative plugins to Weglot for creating a multilingual WordPress site?

Are there any alternative plugins to Weglot for creating a multilingual WordPress site? Yes, there are alternative plugins available for creating a multilingual WordPress site. Some popular options include WPML (WordPress Multilingual Plugin), Polylang, and TranslatePress. Each of these plugins offers different features and pricing plans, so it's worth exploring them to determine which best suits your website's needs. When selecting an alternative, consider the plugin's compatibility with your current theme and other plugins, its ease of use, and the level of support provided by the developers.

Q: How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins? It's good practice to check for updates to your WordPress plugins regularly, ideally once a week. WordPress often notifies you of available updates in the dashboard, making it easier to keep track of new versions. Regular updates are crucial for security, as they often include patches for vulnerabilities, along with new features and improvements. Setting up automatic updates for plugins can also help maintain your site's security without requiring constant manual checks. However, it's still important to review these updates to ensure they don't cause compatibility issues.

Q: What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into web pages that are then stored on the server. When other users view these infected pages, the malicious script executes in their browsers, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities. This type of attack is particularly dangerous because the malicious script is stored on the website itself, affecting all users who access the compromised pages. It emphasizes the importance of sanitizing and validating all user inputs within web applications.

Q: Can a vulnerability like CVE-2024-2124 affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site?

Can a vulnerability like CVE-2024-2124 affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site? While CVE-2024-2124 is specific to the Weglot plugin, the principles of the vulnerability can apply to other plugins or themes that do not properly sanitize user inputs or validate data. Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities can occur in any web application component that handles user data. It's essential to maintain a holistic security approach for your WordPress site, ensuring all plugins, themes, and the core software are regularly updated and reviewed for potential security issues.

Q: Why is input sanitization important in web development?

Why is input sanitization important in web development? Input sanitization is crucial in web development because it involves cleaning and validating user input to ensure it does not contain harmful data, such as malicious scripts. This process helps prevent vulnerabilities like XSS and SQL injection, which can compromise website security and user safety. By enforcing strict input sanitization measures, developers can protect web applications from being exploited by attackers, maintaining the integrity and reliability of the website and its data.

By Your WP Guy | March 18, 2024

Plugin Name: Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: weglot
Software Status: Active
Software Author: remyb92
Software Downloads: 2,296,771
Active Installs: 60,000
Last Updated: March 19, 2024
Patched Versions: 4.2.6
Affected Versions: <= 4.2.5

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot <= 4.2.5
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-2124
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 19, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: Weglot, a plugin designed to make WordPress websites multilingual, was found to be vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in versions up to 4.2.5. The vulnerability stemmed from insufficient sanitization of user-supplied attributes like 'className' in the plugin's widget/block. This allowed authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to execute arbitrary web scripts on affected pages.

Summary:

Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot plugin harbored a critical security vulnerability in versions up to 4.2.5, identified as CVE-2024-2124. This Stored Cross-Site Scripting flaw, stemming from improperly sanitized block attributes, has been effectively addressed in the recently released 4.2.6 update.

Detailed Overview:

The discovery of this vulnerability by researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI highlights the intricate challenges of ensuring plugin security. Authenticated users with at least contributor privileges were able to exploit this flaw to inject harmful scripts into web pages, posing potential risks to website integrity and user safety. The quick release of a patched version underscores the severity of the vulnerability and the need for immediate action from website administrators.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are urged to update their Weglot plugin to version 4.2.6 without delay to protect their sites from potential exploitation.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review their websites for any unusual or unauthorized script injections, particularly in pages utilizing Weglot's translation widgets or blocks.
Alternate Plugins: While the Weglot plugin has been patched, users might consider exploring other reputable translation plugins as a precautionary measure, ensuring a diverse toolkit for website functionality.
Stay Updated: Consistently updating all WordPress components, including plugins, is crucial for maintaining a secure and efficient website. Regularly monitoring for updates can prevent vulnerabilities from being exploited.

Conclusion:

The prompt remediation of CVE-2024-2124 within the Weglot plugin serves as a crucial reminder of the dynamic nature of web security. As WordPress continues to power a significant portion of the web, the vigilance of both developers and users in maintaining plugin security is paramount. By staying informed and proactive, website owners can ensure their digital presence remains both functional and secure.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the vast expanse of the digital world, your website acts as a crucial interface connecting your business with the global audience. With the power of WordPress and its myriad plugins, like Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot, creating a multilingual website has never been easier. However, the recent discovery of a vulnerability, CVE-2024-2124, in the Weglot plugin reminds us of the delicate balance between functionality and security. This incident highlights the imperative need for regular updates and vigilant security practices to safeguard your digital presence.

Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot: An Overview

Weglot has emerged as a preferred solution for WordPress users aiming to make their sites accessible to a global audience by breaking language barriers. Developed by remyb92, this plugin boasts over 2 million downloads and 60,000 active installations, a testament to its popularity and utility. Despite its widespread use, Weglot was found to have a critical vulnerability in versions up to and including 4.2.5, which was promptly addressed in the patched version 4.2.6.

Vulnerability Insight: CVE-2024-2124

CVE-2024-2124 exposes a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability within Weglot, stemming from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied attributes, notably 'className', in the plugin's widgets or blocks. This flaw allowed authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to inject and execute arbitrary web scripts on web pages, compromising site security and user safety. This vulnerability was brought to light by security researcher Ngô Thiên An from VNPT-VCI, underscoring the ongoing challenges in securing complex web applications.

Potential Risks and Remediation

The presence of CVE-2024-2124 posed significant risks, including unauthorized access, data breaches, and the undermining of user trust. To mitigate these risks, Weglot users are strongly encouraged to update their plugin to version 4.2.6, which contains the necessary fixes. Additionally, website administrators should conduct thorough reviews for any unauthorized script injections and maintain stringent user role management to prevent exploitation.

Historical Context and Proactive Measures

This isn't the first time Weglot has encountered security vulnerabilities, with previous issues also duly addressed by the developers. Such instances serve as a reminder of the ever-evolving nature of cybersecurity threats and the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software.

The Imperative of Vigilance

For small business owners, the security of your WordPress website is paramount, not just for safeguarding data but also for preserving your brand's reputation. The incident with Weglot's CVE-2024-2124 vulnerability reinforces the need for constant vigilance, regular updates, and a proactive stance on security. In the digital age, staying informed about potential vulnerabilities and adopting best security practices is essential for ensuring the longevity and success of your online presence. By prioritizing security, you not only protect your business but also build trust with your audience, a cornerstone of digital success.

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.

Translate WordPress and go Multilingual Vulnerability– Weglot – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes – CVE-2024-2124 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-2124?

CVE-2024-2124 is a security vulnerability identifier assigned to a specific issue found in the Translate WordPress and go Multilingual – Weglot plugin. This vulnerability was discovered in versions up to 4.2.5 and involves Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) due to insufficient sanitization of user-supplied attributes, allowing malicious script injection.

Addressing this vulnerability is crucial as it can compromise website security by allowing attackers with contributor-level access to execute arbitrary scripts. This could potentially lead to unauthorized actions being taken on the website, compromising both the site's integrity and user safety.

How can I check if my website is affected by CVE-2024-2124?

To determine if your website is affected by CVE-2024-2124, you need to check the version of the Weglot plugin installed on your WordPress site. If your site is running a version of Weglot that is 4.2.5 or older, it is vulnerable to this XSS issue.

You can find the version of your installed plugins by navigating to the 'Plugins' section in your WordPress dashboard. It's recommended to regularly check for and apply updates to all your plugins to ensure your website's security.

How do I update the Weglot plugin to address this vulnerability?

Updating the Weglot plugin to address CVE-2024-2124 involves accessing your WordPress dashboard and navigating to the 'Plugins' section. If an update is available for Weglot, you will see an 'Update Now' link next to the plugin. Clicking this link will initiate the update process to the latest version, which includes the security patch for this vulnerability.

Before updating, ensure you have a recent backup of your website. This way, if any compatibility issues arise with the new version of the plugin, you can restore your site to its previous state.

What are the potential consequences of not updating the Weglot plugin?

Failing to update the Weglot plugin to patch the CVE-2024-2124 vulnerability can leave your site exposed to XSS attacks. Attackers could exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into your web pages, which can then be executed by other users or administrators.

Such attacks can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, manipulation of web content, and potentially taking over the entire website. It's essential to update the plugin promptly to mitigate these risks and protect your website and its users.

Are there any alternative plugins to Weglot for creating a multilingual WordPress site?

Yes, there are alternative plugins available for creating a multilingual WordPress site. Some popular options include WPML (WordPress Multilingual Plugin), Polylang, and TranslatePress. Each of these plugins offers different features and pricing plans, so it's worth exploring them to determine which best suits your website's needs.

When selecting an alternative, consider the plugin's compatibility with your current theme and other plugins, its ease of use, and the level of support provided by the developers.

How often should I check for updates to my WordPress plugins?

It's good practice to check for updates to your WordPress plugins regularly, ideally once a week. WordPress often notifies you of available updates in the dashboard, making it easier to keep track of new versions. Regular updates are crucial for security, as they often include patches for vulnerabilities, along with new features and improvements.

Setting up automatic updates for plugins can also help maintain your site's security without requiring constant manual checks. However, it's still important to review these updates to ensure they don't cause compatibility issues.

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) is a type of security vulnerability where an attacker injects malicious scripts into web pages that are then stored on the server. When other users view these infected pages, the malicious script executes in their browsers, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, or other malicious activities.

This type of attack is particularly dangerous because the malicious script is stored on the website itself, affecting all users who access the compromised pages. It emphasizes the importance of sanitizing and validating all user inputs within web applications.

Can a vulnerability like CVE-2024-2124 affect other plugins or themes on my WordPress site?

While CVE-2024-2124 is specific to the Weglot plugin, the principles of the vulnerability can apply to other plugins or themes that do not properly sanitize user inputs or validate data. Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities can occur in any web application component that handles user data.

It's essential to maintain a holistic security approach for your WordPress site, ensuring all plugins, themes, and the core software are regularly updated and reviewed for potential security issues.

Why is input sanitization important in web development?

Input sanitization is crucial in web development because it involves cleaning and validating user input to ensure it does not contain harmful data, such as malicious scripts. This process helps prevent vulnerabilities like XSS and SQL injection, which can compromise website security and user safety.

By enforcing strict input sanitization measures, developers can protect web applications from being exploited by attackers, maintaining the integrity and reliability of the website and its data.

What measures can webmasters take to enhance WordPress security?

Webmasters can enhance WordPress security by keeping the core software, plugins, and themes up-to-date, using strong, unique passwords, and implementing two-factor authentication for user accounts. Regularly backing up the website and conducting security audits can also help identify and address potential vulnerabilities.

Additionally, using a reputable security plugin to monitor for malicious activity, enforce security best practices, and provide firewall protection can significantly improve

a WordPress site's security posture. Educating all users with access to the WordPress backend about security best practices and the risks of phishing or other social engineering attacks is also crucial. Proactively managing user roles and permissions to ensure that users have only the access they need can further minimize the risk of internal threats. By adopting a comprehensive approach to security, webmasters can create a robust defense against potential vulnerabilities and threats, ensuring the safety and integrity of their WordPress sites.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-2124, multilingual website, Plugin Updates, Secure WordPress Plugins, Translate WordPress, web security best practices, Weglot patch, Weglot vulnerability, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability