Plugin Name: WP Shortcodes Plugin
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: shortcodes-ultimate
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: gn_themes
- Software Downloads: 20,236,762
- Active Installs: 600,000
- Last Updated: May 20, 2024
- Patched Versions: 7.1.6
- Affected Versions: <= 7.1.5
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: WP Shortcodes Plugin — Shortcodes Ultimate <= 7.1.5 - Authenticated (Contributor+) Stored Cross-Site Scripting via su_members Shortcode
- Type: Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting')
- CVE: CVE-2024-4553
- CVSS Score: 6.4 (Medium)
- Publicly Published: May 20, 2024
- Researcher: wesley (wcraft)
- Description: The WP Shortcodes Plugin — Shortcodes Ultimate plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's 'su_members' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 7.1.5 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user supplied 'color' attribute. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Summary:
The WP Shortcodes Plugin for WordPress has a vulnerability in versions up to and including 7.1.5 that allows authenticated users with contributor-level access and above to inject arbitrary web scripts via the 'su_members' shortcode due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This vulnerability has been patched in version 7.1.6.
Detailed Overview:
The vulnerability was discovered by security researcher wesley (wcraft) and allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. The vulnerability is caused by insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the user-supplied 'color' attribute in the plugin's 'su_members' shortcode. The vulnerability poses a risk of Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks, which could lead to session hijacking, user credentials theft, and other malicious activities. The vulnerability has been patched in version 7.1.6 of the plugin.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Users are strongly advised to update the WP Shortcodes Plugin to version 7.1.6 or later to mitigate the risk of this vulnerability.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Users should review their WordPress pages and posts for any suspicious or unexpected scripts that may have been injected due to this vulnerability.
- Alternate Plugins: While a patch is available, users might still consider plugins that offer similar functionality as a precaution.
- Stay Updated: Always ensure that your plugins are updated to the latest versions to avoid vulnerabilities.
The prompt response from the plugin developers to patch this vulnerability underscores the importance of timely updates. Users are advised to ensure that they are running version 7.1.6 or later to secure their WordPress installations.
References:
https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/shortcodes-ultimate?page=1
https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-plugins/shortcodes-ultimate/wp-shortcodes-plugin-shortcodes-ultimate-715-authenticated-contributor-stored-cross-site-scripting-via-su-members-shortcode
Detailed Report:
Attention all WordPress website owners and administrators! A critical security vulnerability has been discovered in the widely-used WP Shortcodes Plugin - Shortcodes Ultimate, affecting versions up to and including 7.1.5. This vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-4553, allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject malicious scripts into your website, potentially compromising your site's security and putting your users' data at risk.
About the WP Shortcodes Plugin
The WP Shortcodes Plugin, also known as Shortcodes Ultimate, is a popular WordPress plugin that allows users to enhance their website's functionality and appearance using shortcodes. Developed by gn_themes, the plugin has been downloaded over 20 million times and has an active install base of 600,000 websites. The plugin was last updated on May 20, 2024.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability, discovered by security researcher wesley (wcraft), is classified as a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue. It allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access and above to inject arbitrary web scripts via the plugin's 'su_members' shortcode due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on the user-supplied 'color' attribute. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 7.1.5.
Risks and Potential Impacts
Stored XSS vulnerabilities pose a significant risk to website security. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to inject malicious scripts into your website's pages or posts. When unsuspecting users access these injected pages, the scripts execute, potentially leading to session hijacking, theft of user credentials, and other nefarious activities. This vulnerability can compromise your website's integrity and erode your users' trust.
How to Remediate the Vulnerability
To mitigate the risk of this vulnerability, it is crucial to update the WP Shortcodes Plugin to version 7.1.6 or later immediately. The plugin developers have promptly released a patch to address this security issue. If you are unsure about updating the plugin yourself, reach out to your website administrator or a professional WordPress developer for assistance.
Previous Vulnerabilities
It is worth noting that the WP Shortcodes Plugin has had a history of security vulnerabilities. Since May 2015, there have been 23 reported vulnerabilities in the plugin. This underscores the importance of staying vigilant and keeping your plugins up to date to ensure the security of your WordPress website.
The Importance of Staying on Top of Security Vulnerabilities
As a small business owner with a WordPress website, it can be challenging to find the time to stay on top of security vulnerabilities. However, the consequences of neglecting website security can be severe, ranging from data breaches to loss of customer trust and damage to your brand reputation. By regularly updating your WordPress plugins and staying informed about potential security risks, you can significantly reduce the likelihood of falling victim to cyber attacks.
If you find it difficult to manage your website's security on your own, consider partnering with a reliable WordPress maintenance and security service provider. They can handle the technical aspects of keeping your site secure, allowing you to focus on running your business.
Remember, proactive measures and timely updates are key to maintaining a secure online presence. Don't wait until it's too late – prioritize your website's security today.