WooCommerce Vulnerability – Reflected Cross-Site Scripting via Order Attribution – CVE-2024-37297 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: WooCommerce
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: woocommerce
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: woothemes
- Software Downloads: 317,169,418
- Active Installs: 7,000,000
- Last Updated: June 20, 2024
- Patched Versions: 8.8.5, 8.9.3
- Affected Versions: 8.8.0 - 8.8.4, 8.9.0 - 8.9.2
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: WooCommerce 8.8.0 - 8.9.2
- Title: Reflected Cross-Site Scripting via Order Attribution
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-37297
- CVSS Score: 6.1
- Publicly Published: June 10, 2024
- Researcher: Not specified
- Description: The WooCommerce plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via order attribution cookies in versions 8.8.0 to 8.8.4 and 8.9.0 to 8.9.2. This vulnerability arises due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allowing unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts. These scripts execute if users are tricked into performing actions such as clicking on malicious links.
Summary:
The WooCommerce plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions 8.8.0 to 8.8.4 and 8.9.0 to 8.9.2 that allows unauthenticated attackers to perform Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) via order attribution cookies. This vulnerability has been patched in versions 8.8.5 and 8.9.3.
Detailed Overview:
The vulnerability occurs due to a lack of proper input sanitization and output escaping in handling order attribution cookies. Attackers can exploit this flaw by crafting malicious links containing XSS payloads, which, when clicked by users, execute arbitrary scripts within the context of the affected WooCommerce pages. This could lead to compromised user sessions, unauthorized data access, and potentially harmful actions initiated from the victim's browser.
Advice for Users:
Immediate Action: It is strongly recommended that users update their WooCommerce plugin to version 8.8.5 or 8.9.3 immediately to mitigate the risk of XSS attacks via order attribution.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Monitor site logs for any unusual or unexpected script executions, especially those originating from user interactions with WooCommerce pages.
Alternate Plugins: Consider disabling WooCommerce temporarily until the update is applied or explore alternative e-commerce solutions that prioritize security and provide similar functionality.
Stay Updated: Regularly update all WordPress plugins to their latest versions to protect against known vulnerabilities and ensure ongoing site security.
Conclusion:
The swift response from WooCommerce developers in releasing versions 8.8.5 and 8.9.3 underscores the critical importance of timely updates in safeguarding WordPress sites. Users are urged to verify they are running version 8.8.5 or 8.9.3 or newer to secure their installations against potential XSS exploits.
References:
Detailed Report:
Introduction
In the realm of online business, ensuring website security is paramount, especially when relying on essential WordPress plugins like WooCommerce. Recently, a critical vulnerability has surfaced in WooCommerce, posing significant risks to website security. This vulnerability, known as Reflected Cross-Site Scripting via Order Attribution (CVE-2024-37297), underscores the importance of promptly updating plugins to mitigate potential threats.
Plugin Overview: WooCommerce
WooCommerce, developed by woothemes, stands as a cornerstone e-commerce plugin with over 7 million active installations and more than 317 million downloads. It serves as a vital tool for numerous online stores, providing robust functionality for managing sales and transactions.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability affects WooCommerce versions 8.8.0 to 8.8.4 and 8.9.0 to 8.9.2, allowing attackers to exploit order attribution cookies for Reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS). This flaw arises due to inadequate input sanitization and output escaping, enabling malicious scripts to execute within the context of user sessions.
Risks and Potential Impacts
With a CVSS score of 6.1, the vulnerability exposes websites to various risks, including compromised user sessions, unauthorized data access, and potential manipulation of site content through injected scripts. Such exploits can undermine trust, damage reputation, and lead to regulatory compliance issues.
Remediation Steps
Immediate Action
To mitigate these risks, it is imperative for WooCommerce users to update their installations promptly to versions 8.8.5 or 8.9.3, which include patches addressing the XSS vulnerability. Updating immediately is crucial to prevent potential security breaches.
Monitoring for Signs of Vulnerability
Monitor site logs vigilantly for any unusual script executions or suspicious activities, particularly on WooCommerce-related pages. Prompt detection can help mitigate potential damages caused by exploitation of the vulnerability.
Consider Alternatives
As a precautionary measure, consider temporarily disabling WooCommerce until the update is applied. Alternatively, explore alternative e-commerce solutions that prioritize robust security features to ensure continuity of online operations.
Importance of Staying Updated
The swift response from WooCommerce developers in releasing patches underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software. Regular updates not only enhance functionality but also fortify defenses against emerging cybersecurity threats. Small business owners can safeguard their online presence by adopting proactive security practices and staying informed about plugin vulnerabilities and updates.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the recent vulnerability in WooCommerce serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present cybersecurity challenges faced by online businesses. By promptly updating plugins and adopting proactive security measures, businesses can mitigate risks, safeguard user data, and maintain the integrity of their online operations. For further details on this vulnerability and ongoing security advisories, refer to the Wordfence Advisory and continue monitoring for updates from WooCommerce.
Staying Secure
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