WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report – Booster for WooCommerce – Authenticated (Subscriber+) Information Disclosure via Shortcode
Plugin Name: Booster for WooCommerce
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: woocommerce-jetpack
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: pluggabl
- Software Downloads: 3,383,182
- Active Installs: 60,000
- Last Updated: October 4, 2023
- Patched Versions: <=7.1.1
- Affected Versions: 7.1.2
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: Booster for WooCommerce <= 7.1.1 - Authenticated (Subscriber+) Information Disclosure via Shortcode
- Title: Authenticated (Subscriber+) Information Disclosure via Shortcode
- Type: Information Exposure
- CVSS Score: 4.3 (medium)
- Publicly Published: October 4, 2023
- Description: The Booster for WooCommerce for WordPress is vulnerable to Information Disclosure via the 'wcj_get_option' shortcode in versions up to, and including, 7.1.1 due to insufficient controls on the information retrievable via the shortcode. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level capabilities or above, to retrieve arbitrary sensitive site options.
Summary:
The Booster for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 7.1.1 that allows authenticated users with subscriber level access or higher to retrieve sensitive site configuration options via a shortcode. This vulnerability has been patched in version 7.1.2.
Detailed Overview:
Security researchers discovered an information disclosure vulnerability in the Booster for WooCommerce plugin versions 7.1.1 and earlier. The vulnerability exists in the 'wcj_get_option' shortcode, which can be used by authenticated users with subscriber level access or higher to retrieve arbitrary site options that may contain sensitive information.
By inserting the shortcode into a page or post, attackers can expose database credentials, API keys, and other confidential data. The vulnerability allows circumvention of access controls, enabling lower privileged users to access restricted information.
The issue was responsibly disclosed to the plugin developers who promptly released version 7.1.2 to address the problem by implementing additional capability checks on shortcode usage.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Upgrade to Booster for WooCommerce version 7.1.2 as soon as possible.
- Check for Signs of Compromise: Review your site's posts and pages for any unauthorized shortcode usage that may indicate exploit use. Also check for unauthorized database or application access.
- Alternate Plugins: Consider using an alternate plugin for WooCommerce functionality, such as WooCommerce Extra Product Options, until you can update.
- Stay Updated: Always keep your WordPress plugins updated to the latest versions to avoid potential vulnerabilities.
Conclusion:
The quick response by the developers to patch this vulnerability highlights the importance of keeping software updated. Users should upgrade to version 7.1.2 or later of Booster for WooCommerce immediately to protect their WordPress sites.
References:
https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/woocommerce-jetpack
Detailed Report:
Keeping your WordPress website and its plugins up-to-date is one of the most important things you can do to maintain a secure online presence. Unfortunately, far too many site owners fail to stay on top of updates, leaving their sites exposed to potential compromise. A recently disclosed vulnerability in a popular eCommerce plugin highlights precisely why timely updates are so critical. Versions 7.1.1 and earlier of the Booster for WooCommerce plugin contain a flaw enabling authenticated users to access sensitive configuration data.
While the developers have released a patched version, any site still running the affected releases remains at risk. Don't let your online business become the next victim. Take action now by auditing your installed plugins and upgrading any found to be outdated or vulnerable. The small amount of effort required is insignificant compared to the potential harm from a breach. Our team of experts can perform a comprehensive security assessment and provide the peace of mind that your website is locked down tight. Contact us today to discuss your needs.
Booster for WooCommerce is a widely used plugin that adds extra features and functionality to WooCommerce stores. With over 3 million downloads and 60,000 active installs, it is a popular choice among WordPress site owners. Unfortunately, researchers recently discovered a serious vulnerability impacting Booster for WooCommerce versions 7.1.1 and earlier.
The vulnerability allows authenticated users, even those with just subscriber access, to use a shortcode to retrieve sensitive site configuration data. This includes database credentials, API keys, and other confidential information. By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker could gain access to administer and compromise the entire site.
Leaving this flaw unpatched poses substantial risks. At a minimum, exposed database credentials could enable database access and manipulation. API keys may grant access to integrated services and payment systems. Disclosure of other sensitive options provides attackers information to aid in further exploitation and takeover.
To mitigate this vulnerability, users should update to Booster for WooCommerce version 7.1.2 immediately. This release fixes the problematic shortcode Access controls. Those unable to update should consider removing the plugin or restricting shortcode usage until an upgrade can be completed. They should also monitor systems closely for any indicators of compromise.
This is not the first serious vulnerability found in Booster for WooCommerce. In fact, four other high severity flaws have been reported in the plugin over the past two years. This underscores the absolutely critical need to maintain plugins with security updates. New vulnerabilities in popular plugins are disclosed frequently. The only way to stay protected is through rapid response.
For small business owners without dedicated technical teams, keeping up with security can be challenging. Engaging outside experts to audit plugins and systems regularly is strongly advised. The minor cost is dwarfed by the potential fallout of a breach. Don't wait until it's too late - be proactive about your website's security.
As a business owner, you don't have time to constantly monitor for WordPress vulnerabilities like this. At Your WP Guy, we become your outsourced IT team to handle security, updates, maintenance and support. Let us fully audit your site and plugins to assess any impact from this issue. We'll update everything to patched versions so you can rest easy knowing your site is locked down.
Focus on your business goals while we focus on your WordPress site's security. Chat with us anytime during business hours, schedule a call or call 678-995-5169 for a free consultation on securing your online presence.