Tutor LMS Vulnerability – eLearning and online course solution – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘tutor_instructor_list’ Shortcode – CVE-2024-3994 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

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

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)? Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages which are then stored on the server. These scripts can be executed in the browser of any user who accesses the affected page. This can lead to a variety of malicious activities, such as stealing session cookies, manipulating web page content, or redirecting users to malicious websites.

Q: How do I check if my WordPress site uses the Tutor LMS plugin?

How do I check if my WordPress site uses the Tutor LMS plugin? To find out if your site is using the Tutor LMS plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here, you will see a list of all the plugins currently installed on your site. If Tutor LMS is installed, it will appear in this list. Keeping track of your installed plugins and their versions is crucial for maintaining site security.

Q: What immediate steps should I take if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

What immediate steps should I take if my website is affected by this vulnerability? If your website uses Tutor LMS and is running a version earlier than 2.7.0, update the plugin immediately. This is the simplest and most effective way to protect your site from the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, review your website’s content and scripts, particularly in areas where the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode is used, to ensure no malicious scripts have been injected.

Q: Can I simply uninstall Tutor LMS if I am concerned about ongoing security issues?

Can I simply uninstall Tutor LMS if I am concerned about ongoing security issues? Uninstalling the Tutor LMS plugin is an option if you are concerned about its security history and ongoing vulnerabilities. However, if the plugin is crucial for your site’s operations, consider finding a secure alternative that offers similar functionalities. Ensure any new plugin is from a reputable developer with good security practices and regular updates.

Q: Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated?

Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated? Keeping plugins updated is crucial because updates often contain patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version. Outdated plugins are a common attack vector for cybercriminals looking to exploit known vulnerabilities. Regular updates help protect your site from these threats and ensure compatibility with the latest WordPress core updates.

Q: How can I tell if my website has been compromised? Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes to web content, new admin accounts that you did not create, unusual redirects, slow loading times, or increased server usage. If you notice any of these symptoms, conduct a thorough review of your site and consider employing a security plugin that scans for malware and other threats.

How can I tell if my website has been compromised? Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes to web content, new admin accounts that you did not create, unusual redirects, slow loading times, or increased server usage. If you notice any of these symptoms, conduct a thorough review of your site and consider employing a security plugin that scans for malware and other threats.

Q: What are the potential consequences of not addressing an XSS vulnerability?

What are the potential consequences of not addressing an XSS vulnerability? Failing to address an XSS vulnerability can lead to serious consequences including theft of personal data, unauthorized transactions, or even complete control over the affected website by attackers. For businesses, this could result in financial loss, damage to reputation, and loss of customer trust, which can be devastating.

Q: Are there automated tools that can help detect vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Are there automated tools that can help detect vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins? Yes, there are several security plugins and services available that can automatically scan your WordPress site for vulnerabilities, including those in plugins. These tools can alert you to potential security issues before they are exploited by attackers. Regular scans with these tools should be a part of your website’s routine security checks.

Q: What should I look for when choosing a secure plugin for my WordPress site?

What should I look for when choosing a secure plugin for my WordPress site? When choosing a plugin, look for one that is actively maintained and regularly updated by its developers. Check the change log for mentions of security updates, read reviews, and research the plugin’s security history. It’s also wise to choose plugins that have a large install base and good ratings, as these factors can indicate a reliable and trusted developer.

Q: What can I do to enhance the overall security of my WordPress site?

What can I do to enhance the overall security of my WordPress site? To enhance your WordPress site’s security, keep your core software, themes, and plugins up to date. Use strong passwords, employ a security plugin for ongoing monitoring and protection, and consider setting up a web application firewall. Regular backups are also crucial so that you can restore your site to a clean state if it becomes compromised.

By Your WP Guy | April 23, 2024

Plugin Name: Tutor LMS – eLearning and online course solution

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: tutor
Software Status: Active
Software Author: themeum
Software Downloads: 2,051,836
Active Installs: 80,000
Last Updated: May 9, 2024
Patched Versions: 2.7.0
Affected Versions: <= 2.6.2

Vulnerability Details:

Name: Tutor LMS – eLearning and online course solution <= 2.6.2
Title: Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via 'tutor_instructor_list' Shortcode
Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N
CVE: CVE-2024-3994
CVSS Score: 5.4
Publicly Published: April 24, 2024
Researcher: wesley
Description: The Tutor LMS plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 2.6.2 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied attributes. Authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, can inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.

Summary:

The Tutor LMS plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 2.6.2 that allows for stored cross-site scripting via the plugin's 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 2.7.0.

Detailed Overview:

The vulnerability in the Tutor LMS plugin was discovered by researcher Wesley. It specifically affects the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode, where insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes allows for the injection of malicious scripts. The potential for harm includes unauthorized data access and manipulation by attackers, thereby posing a significant security risk to sites using older versions of the plugin. The remediation of this vulnerability has been achieved with the release of version 2.7.0, which addresses these security gaps.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Update to the patched version 2.7.0 immediately to close the security loophole.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Admins should review their site pages for unexpected scripts or behaviors, particularly where the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode is used.
Alternate Plugins: While the patched version is now available, users may consider evaluating other eLearning plugins that provide similar functionalities but with a robust security track record as a precautionary measure.
Stay Updated: Ensuring that all your WordPress plugins are kept up to date is crucial in preventing vulnerabilities and protecting your site against emerging threats.

Conclusion:

The prompt patching of the Tutor LMS plugin to version 2.7.0 highlights the ongoing challenge and necessity of maintaining software security. Site administrators are urged to update their installations to this version or later to safeguard their WordPress sites effectively against this and potentially other vulnerabilities.

References:

Detailed Report:

In the realm of digital education, WordPress plugins like Tutor LMS play a pivotal role in creating engaging online courses. Yet, this digital convenience comes with inherent risks, highlighted by the recent discovery of a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in Tutor LMS. Officially known as CVE-2024-3994, this vulnerability exposes the pressing need for vigilant software updates and robust security measures. It serves as a stark reminder that keeping digital tools updated is not just a matter of accessing new features but a crucial defense against potential cyber threats.

Vulnerability Overview:

The vulnerability in question was discovered in versions up to and including 2.6.2 of the Tutor LMS plugin. Identified by researcher Wesley, it involves the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode, where insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes allow authenticated users with contributor-level access to inject malicious scripts. This XSS vulnerability, cataloged under CVE-2024-3994, holds a CVSS score of 5.4, signaling a moderate threat that demands immediate attention.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could enable attackers to perform unauthorized actions such as stealing user data, compromising user sessions, or redirecting visitors to malicious websites. For any eLearning platform, such security breaches can lead to significant reputational damage, loss of trust among users, and potential legal ramifications. Given the sensitive nature of educational content and personal data, the stakes are particularly high.

Remediation Steps:

To mitigate this vulnerability, users are urged to:

Update immediately to the latest patched version, 2.7.0, to close the security loophole.
Review site pages for unexpected scripts or behaviors, especially where the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode is used.
Consider alternatives or additional security measures if continual plugin updates pose a challenge.

Historical Vulnerabilities:

It is worth noting that this is not the first time Tutor LMS has faced security issues; there have been 30 documented vulnerabilities since February 4, 2020. This history underscores the need for ongoing vigilance and proactive security practices.

Conclusion:

The swift patching of Tutor LMS to version 2.7.0 underscores the ongoing challenges and the necessity of maintaining software security. As small business owners, the task of keeping up with security updates can seem daunting, especially when resources are limited. However, the consequences of neglect can be far more severe. Incorporating regular security checks and updates into your website management routine is not just beneficial—it's essential for safeguarding your digital presence.

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.

Tutor LMS Vulnerability – eLearning and online course solution – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘tutor_instructor_list’ Shortcode – CVE-2024-3994 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

Stored Cross-Site Scripting, or XSS, is a type of security vulnerability that allows an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages which are then stored on the server. These scripts can be executed in the browser of any user who accesses the affected page. This can lead to a variety of malicious activities, such as stealing session cookies, manipulating web page content, or redirecting users to malicious websites.

How do I check if my WordPress site uses the Tutor LMS plugin?

To find out if your site is using the Tutor LMS plugin, log into your WordPress dashboard and navigate to the 'Plugins' section. Here, you will see a list of all the plugins currently installed on your site. If Tutor LMS is installed, it will appear in this list. Keeping track of your installed plugins and their versions is crucial for maintaining site security.

What immediate steps should I take if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

If your website uses Tutor LMS and is running a version earlier than 2.7.0, update the plugin immediately. This is the simplest and most effective way to protect your site from the XSS vulnerability. Additionally, review your website’s content and scripts, particularly in areas where the 'tutor_instructor_list' shortcode is used, to ensure no malicious scripts have been injected.

Can I simply uninstall Tutor LMS if I am concerned about ongoing security issues?

Uninstalling the Tutor LMS plugin is an option if you are concerned about its security history and ongoing vulnerabilities. However, if the plugin is crucial for your site’s operations, consider finding a secure alternative that offers similar functionalities. Ensure any new plugin is from a reputable developer with good security practices and regular updates.

Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated?

Keeping plugins updated is crucial because updates often contain patches for security vulnerabilities that have been discovered since the last version. Outdated plugins are a common attack vector for cybercriminals looking to exploit known vulnerabilities. Regular updates help protect your site from these threats and ensure compatibility with the latest WordPress core updates.

How can I tell if my website has been compromised? Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes to web content, new admin accounts that you did not create, unusual redirects, slow loading times, or increased server usage. If you notice any of these symptoms, conduct a thorough review of your site and consider employing a security plugin that scans for malware and other threats.

How can I tell if my website has been compromised?

Signs that your website may have been compromised include unexpected changes to web content, new admin accounts that you did not create, unusual redirects, slow loading times, or increased server usage. If you notice any of these symptoms, conduct a thorough review of your site and consider employing a security plugin that scans for malware and other threats.

What are the potential consequences of not addressing an XSS vulnerability?

Failing to address an XSS vulnerability can lead to serious consequences including theft of personal data, unauthorized transactions, or even complete control over the affected website by attackers. For businesses, this could result in financial loss, damage to reputation, and loss of customer trust, which can be devastating.

Are there automated tools that can help detect vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

Yes, there are several security plugins and services available that can automatically scan your WordPress site for vulnerabilities, including those in plugins. These tools can alert you to potential security issues before they are exploited by attackers. Regular scans with these tools should be a part of your website’s routine security checks.

What should I look for when choosing a secure plugin for my WordPress site?

When choosing a plugin, look for one that is actively maintained and regularly updated by its developers. Check the change log for mentions of security updates, read reviews, and research the plugin’s security history. It’s also wise to choose plugins that have a large install base and good ratings, as these factors can indicate a reliable and trusted developer.

What can I do to enhance the overall security of my WordPress site?

To enhance your WordPress site’s security, keep your core software, themes, and plugins up to date. Use strong passwords, employ a security plugin for ongoing monitoring and protection, and consider setting up a web application firewall. Regular backups are also crucial so that you can restore your site to a clean state if it becomes compromised.

Share this post:

X (Twitter) Facebook Pinterest LinkedIn Email Reddit WhatsApp Pocket SMS

Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-3994, cyber threats, eLearning security, Plugin Updates, secure online courses, Tutor LMS, Website Protection, wordpress plugin vulnerabilities, wordpress security, XSS vulnerability

Plugin Name: Tutor LMS – eLearning and online course solution

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Detailed Report:

Vulnerability Overview:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation Steps:

Historical Vulnerabilities:

Conclusion:

Staying Secure

Tutor LMS Vulnerability – eLearning and online course solution – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via ‘tutor_instructor_list’ Shortcode – CVE-2024-3994 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)?

How do I check if my WordPress site uses the Tutor LMS plugin?

What immediate steps should I take if my website is affected by this vulnerability?

Can I simply uninstall Tutor LMS if I am concerned about ongoing security issues?

Why is it important to keep WordPress plugins updated?

What are the potential consequences of not addressing an XSS vulnerability?

Are there automated tools that can help detect vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?

What should I look for when choosing a secure plugin for my WordPress site?

What can I do to enhance the overall security of my WordPress site?

Share this post:

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Recent Blog Posts

LiteSpeed Cache Vulnerability – Unauthenticated Sensitive Information Exposure via Log Files – CVE-2024-44000 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Elementor Addon Elements Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Multiple Parameters – CVE-2024-4401, CVE-2024-7122 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

The Post Grid – Shortcode, Gutenberg Blocks and Elementor Addon for Post Grid Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Information Disclosure – CVE-2024-7418 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Additional Resources

About Your WP Guy