WP Chat App Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes – CVE-2024-1761 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report

Q: What is CVE-2024-1761?

What is CVE-2024-1761? CVE-2024-1761 is a security designation for a vulnerability found in the WP Chat App plugin for WordPress. This specific vulnerability is a type of Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) that affects versions up to and including 3.6.1. It arises from insufficient sanitization of user inputs in attributes like 'buttonColor' and 'phoneNumber', allowing authenticated users with certain permissions to inject malicious scripts.

Q: How does CVE-2024-1761 affect my WordPress website?

How does CVE-2024-1761 affect my WordPress website? The vulnerability poses a risk by enabling attackers to embed harmful scripts into your website's pages. When other users, including site visitors, access these compromised pages, the malicious scripts execute. This could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially damaging actions being performed on your site without your knowledge.

Q: Who is at risk from CVE-2024-1761?

Who is at risk from CVE-2024-1761? Any WordPress website using the WP Chat App plugin versions up to 3.6.1 is at risk. Specifically, sites where users with contributor-level permissions or higher can modify content are vulnerable. It's important for all site administrators using this plugin to update to the patched version to mitigate this risk.

Q: What versions of the WP Chat App plugin are affected?

What versions of the WP Chat App plugin are affected? The vulnerability affects all versions of the WP Chat App plugin up to and including version 3.6.1. If your website is running any of these versions, it is advisable to update to version 3.6.2 or later, which contains the necessary security patches.

Q: How can I update my WP Chat App plugin to a secure version?

How can I update my WP Chat App plugin to a secure version? To update your plugin, go to your WordPress dashboard, navigate to the 'Plugins' section, and find WP Chat App in your list of installed plugins. If an update is available, you should see an option to update the plugin. Always ensure you backup your website before applying updates.

Q: What immediate actions should I take if I'm using an affected version?

What immediate actions should I take if I'm using an affected version? If your website uses an affected version of the WP Chat App plugin, immediately update to the patched version, 3.6.2, to secure your site. Additionally, review your site for any unusual activity or content that might indicate it has been compromised. Implementing additional security measures, such as a website firewall, can also enhance your site's protection.

Q: Can CVE-2024-1761 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

Can CVE-2024-1761 be exploited by any visitor to my site? The exploitation of CVE-2024-1761 typically requires at least contributor-level access. This means not just any visitor can exploit the vulnerability; however, any visitor could be a victim of the malicious scripts if they are executed on their browser. It's crucial to patch the vulnerability to protect both your site and its visitors.

Q: What are the signs that my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

What are the signs that my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability? Signs of a compromise might include unexpected changes to your site, the appearance of unfamiliar content, new unauthorized user accounts, or suspicious activity in your website's logs. Regularly monitoring your site is key to early detection of potential breaches.

Q: Are there alternative plugins to WP Chat App that are not vulnerable to CVE-2024-1761?

Are there alternative plugins to WP Chat App that are not vulnerable to CVE-2024-1761? Yes, there are several other chat plugins available for WordPress. When looking for alternatives, consider their security history, update frequency, and user reviews. It's important to choose plugins that are well-maintained and have a good track record of addressing security issues promptly.

Q: Why is it important to stay updated on vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761?

Why is it important to stay updated on vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761? Staying informed about vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761 is crucial because it helps protect your website from potential threats. Regular updates to plugins, themes, and the WordPress core are essential for maintaining a secure online presence. They not only fix known vulnerabilities but also introduce improvements and new features.

By Your WP Guy | March 6, 2024

Plugin Name: WP Chat App

Key Information:

Software Type: Plugin
Software Slug: wp-whatsapp
Software Status: Active
Software Author: ninjateam
Software Downloads: 880,497
Active Installs: 100,000
Last Updated: March 8, 2024
Patched Versions: 3.6.2
Affected Versions: <= 3.6.1

Vulnerability Details:

Name: WP Chat App <= 3.6.1
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-2024-1761
CVSS Score: 6.4
Publicly Published: March 6, 2024
Researcher: Ngô Thiên An (ancorn_) - VNPT-VCI
Description: The WP Chat App plugin is found to be vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) through insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes like 'buttonColor' and 'phoneNumber' in its widget/block. This flaw allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to embed harmful scripts into web pages, compromising the security of any user accessing these pages.

Summary:

The WP Chat App, a widely used WordPress plugin that facilitates direct chat capabilities via WhatsApp integration, harbors a significant security flaw in versions up to 3.6.1. This vulnerability, identified as Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes, jeopardizes website integrity by enabling the injection and execution of arbitrary web scripts. A corrective update, version 3.6.2, has been released to address this issue.

Detailed Overview:

Discovered by cybersecurity researcher Ngô Thiên An, this vulnerability underscores the critical need for rigorous security practices in plugin development, particularly concerning input validation and data handling. The ability for attackers to exploit such vulnerabilities can lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, and a tarnished website reputation. The prompt issuance of a patched version by the developers, ninjateam, reflects a proactive approach to maintaining user trust and security.

Advice for Users:

Immediate Action: Users are strongly advised to update their WP Chat App plugin to the patched version 3.6.2 without delay to mitigate the risk posed by this vulnerability.
Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Regularly inspect your website for any anomalies or unauthorized changes that could indicate exploitation, focusing on areas where the plugin operates.
Alternate Plugins: While the updated version is secure, exploring alternative chat plugins may be wise if they better align with security expectations and functional requirements.
Stay Updated: Consistently keeping all WordPress plugins, themes, and core installations updated is essential for safeguarding against known vulnerabilities and ensuring optimal website performance.

Conclusion:

The identification and subsequent resolution of CVE-2024-1761 within the WP Chat App plugin serve as a pertinent reminder of the dynamic and ongoing nature of cybersecurity threats. WordPress site owners, particularly small business operators who might lack extensive IT resources, must remain vigilant and proactive in applying software updates. Such diligence is paramount in protecting digital assets and maintaining the trust and safety of website users.

References:

In the dynamic world of WordPress, where plugins enhance functionality and user experience, the security of these extensions is paramount. The recent discovery of a vulnerability in the WP Chat App plugin, known as CVE-2024-1761, has cast a spotlight on the critical importance of cybersecurity within the WordPress ecosystem. This plugin, designed to integrate WhatsApp chat functionalities directly into websites, has become an essential tool for many. Yet, this vulnerability exposes the inherent risks associated with digital tools, underscoring the necessity for website owners, particularly small business operators, to vigilantly maintain and update their online platforms.

Plugin Overview:

WP Chat App by ninjateam has gained significant traction within the WordPress community, evidenced by its 880,497 downloads and 100,000 active installations. Its primary function is to facilitate seamless communication between website owners and their visitors via WhatsApp, making it an invaluable asset for customer engagement.

Vulnerability Details:

CVE-2024-1761 reveals a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability present in versions up to 3.6.1 of the WP Chat App plugin. Specifically, the flaw resides in the plugin's handling of user-supplied attributes such as 'buttonColor' and 'phoneNumber' within its widget/block. Insufficient sanitization and escaping of these inputs allow authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary web scripts, which can be executed by others upon accessing the compromised pages.

Risks and Potential Impacts:

The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to various security breaches, including unauthorized data access, manipulation of website content, and the spread of malware among users. Such incidents can severely tarnish a website's reputation, erode user trust, and potentially result in significant losses for businesses relying on their online presence.

Remediation and Prevention:

In response to CVE-2024-1761, the developers at ninjateam have issued a patched version, 3.6.2, addressing the vulnerability. Website owners using this plugin are urged to update to the latest version promptly to protect their sites. Additionally, regular monitoring for unusual activities and ensuring all components of the WordPress site are up-to-date are critical practices for maintaining security.

Previous Vulnerabilities:

This is not the first time vulnerabilities have been discovered in the WP Chat App plugin, with one other issue reported since December 26, 2023. Each incident serves as a learning opportunity and a reminder of the importance of continuous vigilance in the digital realm.

The discovery of CVE-2024-1761 within the WP Chat App plugin highlights the ongoing battle against security vulnerabilities in the WordPress ecosystem. For small business owners, who often juggle numerous responsibilities, understanding the importance of keeping their website's components up-to-date cannot be overstated. Regular updates, along with a proactive approach to website security, can significantly mitigate the risk of vulnerabilities, safeguarding not just the digital platform but the business's integrity and the trust of its users. In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, staying informed and responsive is key to maintaining a secure and reliable online 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.

WP Chat App Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes – CVE-2024-1761 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1761?

CVE-2024-1761 is a security designation for a vulnerability found in the WP Chat App plugin for WordPress. This specific vulnerability is a type of Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) that affects versions up to and including 3.6.1. It arises from insufficient sanitization of user inputs in attributes like 'buttonColor' and 'phoneNumber', allowing authenticated users with certain permissions to inject malicious scripts.

How does CVE-2024-1761 affect my WordPress website?

The vulnerability poses a risk by enabling attackers to embed harmful scripts into your website's pages. When other users, including site visitors, access these compromised pages, the malicious scripts execute. This could lead to unauthorized access, data breaches, and potentially damaging actions being performed on your site without your knowledge.

Who is at risk from CVE-2024-1761?

What versions of the WP Chat App plugin are affected?

How can I update my WP Chat App plugin to a secure version?

What immediate actions should I take if I'm using an affected version?

If your website uses an affected version of the WP Chat App plugin, immediately update to the patched version, 3.6.2, to secure your site. Additionally, review your site for any unusual activity or content that might indicate it has been compromised. Implementing additional security measures, such as a website firewall, can also enhance your site's protection.

Can CVE-2024-1761 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

The exploitation of CVE-2024-1761 typically requires at least contributor-level access. This means not just any visitor can exploit the vulnerability; however, any visitor could be a victim of the malicious scripts if they are executed on their browser. It's crucial to patch the vulnerability to protect both your site and its visitors.

What are the signs that my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to WP Chat App that are not vulnerable to CVE-2024-1761?

Yes, there are several other chat plugins available for WordPress. When looking for alternatives, consider their security history, update frequency, and user reviews. It's important to choose plugins that are well-maintained and have a good track record of addressing security issues promptly.

Why is it important to stay updated on vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761?

Staying informed about vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761 is crucial because it helps protect your website from potential threats. Regular updates to plugins, themes, and the WordPress core are essential for maintaining a secure online presence. They not only fix known vulnerabilities but also introduce improvements and new features.

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Posted in Security, Vulnerabilities and tagged CVE-2024-1761, cybersecurity for small businesses, digital safety., ninjateam plugins, Plugin Updates, stored XSS, Website Protection, WordPress Maintenance, wordpress security, WP Chat App vulnerability

Plugin Name: WP Chat App

Key Information:

Vulnerability Details:

Summary:

Detailed Overview:

Advice for Users:

Conclusion:

References:

Plugin Overview:

Vulnerability Details:

Risks and Potential Impacts:

Remediation and Prevention:

Previous Vulnerabilities:

Staying Secure

WP Chat App Vulnerability – Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via Block Attributes – CVE-2024-1761 |WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs

What is CVE-2024-1761?

How does CVE-2024-1761 affect my WordPress website?

Who is at risk from CVE-2024-1761?

What versions of the WP Chat App plugin are affected?

How can I update my WP Chat App plugin to a secure version?

What immediate actions should I take if I'm using an affected version?

Can CVE-2024-1761 be exploited by any visitor to my site?

What are the signs that my website has been compromised due to this vulnerability?

Are there alternative plugins to WP Chat App that are not vulnerable to CVE-2024-1761?

Why is it important to stay updated on vulnerabilities like CVE-2024-1761?

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