WPFront User Role Editor Vulnerability – Limited Information Exposure – CVE-2024-2931 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report
Plugin Name: WPFront User Role Editor
Key Information:
- Software Type: Plugin
- Software Slug: wpfront-user-role-editor
- Software Status: Active
- Software Author: syammohanm
- Software Downloads: 787,036
- Active Installs: 50,000
- Last Updated: April 2, 2024
- Patched Versions: 4.1.0
- Affected Versions: <= 3.2.1.11184
Vulnerability Details:
- Name: WPFront User Role Editor <= 3.2.1.11184
- Title: Limited Information Exposure
- Type: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:N/A:N
- CVE: CVE-2024-2931
- CVSS Score: 4.3
- Publicly Published: April 1, 2024
- Researcher: 1337_Wannabe – home
- Description: The WPFront User Role Editor plugin for WordPress has been found vulnerable to Sensitive Information Exposure through the
wpfront_user_role_editor_assign_roles_user_autocompleteAJAX action. Authenticated users with at least subscriber-level access can exploit this vulnerability to retrieve a list of all registered user email addresses on the site, posing a significant risk to user privacy.
Summary:
The WPFront User Role Editor, a widely used plugin for managing user roles and capabilities on WordPress sites, has been identified with a vulnerability that potentially compromises user privacy. Designated as CVE-2024-2931, this vulnerability affects all plugin versions up to 3.2.1.11184 and enables authenticated attackers to expose sensitive information, specifically user email addresses. The plugin developers have addressed this issue in the latest version, 4.1.0, reinforcing the necessity of keeping software up to date to protect against such vulnerabilities.
Detailed Overview:
Discovered by the security researcher 1337_Wannabe, CVE-2024-2931 unveils a critical oversight in the WPFront User Role Editor’s handling of AJAX actions, particularly in the way user information is queried and presented. This vulnerability underscores the broader challenges faced by plugin developers in securing AJAX endpoints and the need for rigorous security practices to prevent unauthorized information disclosure. By updating to version 4.1.0, users can safeguard their sites against this vulnerability, ensuring that sensitive user data remains confidential.
Advice for Users:
- Immediate Action: Users of the WPFront User Role Editor should update to the patched version 4.1.0 immediately to mitigate the risk posed by CVE-2024-2931.
- Check for Signs of Vulnerability: Administrators should review access logs and user activities for any unusual patterns that might suggest exploitation of this vulnerability.
- Alternate Plugins: While the updated version resolves this specific vulnerability, users may consider exploring other user role editor plugins that meet their requirements and maintain a strong focus on security.
- Stay Updated: Keeping all WordPress plugins and themes updated is crucial in maintaining site security and functionality, protecting against known vulnerabilities and threats.
Conclusion:
The resolution of CVE-2024-2931 in the WPFront User Role Editor plugin serves as a vital reminder of the ongoing importance of software updates in the digital security landscape. For WordPress site owners, particularly small business operators who balance numerous responsibilities, proactive plugin management is not just a best practice-it’s a critical line of defense against emerging cyber threats. Embracing a vigilant security posture, characterized by regular updates and comprehensive monitoring, is paramount for maintaining a secure and reliable digital presence in today’s interconnected world.
References:
- Wordfence Vulnerability Report for CVE-2024-2931
- Further Information on WPFront User Role Editor Vulnerabilities
Detailed Report:
In today’s digital landscape, where websites serve as the backbone of businesses, personal endeavors, and community interactions, the security of user data stands as a paramount concern. The recent discovery of a vulnerability in the “WPFront User Role Editor” WordPress plugin, designated as CVE-2024-2931, brings to light the ever-present threat of cyber vulnerabilities. This incident not only emphasizes the specific risk associated with this plugin but also serves as a broader reminder of the critical importance of continuous vigilance and timely software updates in safeguarding our digital domains.
About the WPFront User Role Editor Plugin:
The WPFront User Role Editor is renowned for its utility in finely tailoring user roles and permissions within WordPress sites. Trusted by over 50,000 installations, it provides administrators with robust control over their site’s operations. With syammohanm at the helm of its development, this plugin has facilitated enhanced site management across a vast number of WordPress sites, evidenced by its significant download count of 787,036.
Vulnerability Details:
- CVE: CVE-2024-2931
- Issue: Limited Information Exposure
- Affected Versions: All versions up to 3.2.1.11184
- Patched Version: 4.1.0
- Impact: This vulnerability allows authenticated users with merely subscriber-level access to exploit the
wpfront_user_role_editor_assign_roles_user_autocompleteAJAX action, revealing a list of all user email addresses registered on the site. This sensitive information exposure poses a considerable risk to user privacy.
Risks and Impacts:
The exposure of user email addresses not only infringes on privacy but also opens the door to potential phishing attacks, spam, and other malicious activities aimed at users. Such incidents can undermine the integrity and trustworthiness of affected websites, leading to a loss of user confidence and potential reputational damage.
Remediation:
The plugin’s developers have proactively addressed CVE-2024-2931 by releasing a patched version, 4.1.0. Site administrators are urged to update to this latest version promptly to protect against the vulnerability and ensure the continued confidentiality of user data.
Historical Context:
The WPFront User Role Editor has encountered vulnerabilities in the past, with two significant issues identified since November 23, 2021. This history highlights the ongoing challenges faced by plugin developers in maintaining security and the importance of regular updates.
Conclusion:
The swift action taken by the developers of the WPFront User Role Editor to patch CVE-2024-2931 underscores a universal truth in the realm of digital security: the necessity of staying ahead of vulnerabilities through regular software updates. For small business owners who juggle myriad responsibilities, the proactive management of WordPress plugins is not just beneficial-it’s essential for safeguarding their digital assets against the myriad threats that pervade the internet. In an era where cyber threats are a constant, the dedication to maintaining updated, secure plugins is the linchpin in ensuring a secure and trusted digital presence.
For small business owners, this episode serves as a stark reminder of the need for a proactive approach to cybersecurity. Regularly scheduling updates, employing trusted security solutions, and staying informed about potential vulnerabilities are not just strategies but indispensable practices in the quest to shield your WordPress site from the ever-evolving landscape of cyber threats.
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.
WPFront User Role Editor Vulnerability – Limited Information Exposure – CVE-2024-2931 | WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Report FAQs
What is CVE-2024-2931?
What is CVE-2024-2931?
CVE-2024-2931 is a designated identifier for a security vulnerability discovered in the WPFront User Role Editor WordPress plugin. This vulnerability exposes a risk of sensitive information exposure, where authenticated users with subscriber-level access could potentially retrieve a list of all registered user email addresses on the site.
The vulnerability is classified under the category of Limited Information Exposure due to its potential to compromise user privacy by exposing email addresses. It was identified in all versions of the plugin up to 3.2.1.11184, prompting the release of a patched version to mitigate the risk.
How does CVE-2024-2931 affect WordPress websites?
How does CVE-2024-2931 affect WordPress websites?
CVE-2024-2931 affects WordPress websites by potentially compromising the privacy of user data. If exploited, this vulnerability allows attackers to access and expose the email addresses of all users registered on the site, without requiring administrative privileges.
This exposure of email addresses not only violates user privacy but also increases the risk of phishing attacks, spamming, and other malicious activities targeted at users. It underscores the importance of securing user data and the potential repercussions of vulnerabilities within WordPress plugins.
How can I check if my website is vulnerable?
How can I check if my website is vulnerable?
To determine if your website is vulnerable to CVE-2024-2931, you need to identify the version of the WPFront User Role Editor plugin currently installed on your WordPress site. This can be done by accessing your WordPress dashboard, navigating to the ‘Plugins’ section, and locating the WPFront User Role Editor plugin to check its version number.
If your plugin’s version is at or below 3.2.1.11184, your website is vulnerable, and it’s recommended to update to the patched version, 4.1.0, as soon as possible. Regularly updating your plugins is key to maintaining your website’s security.
What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-2931?
What immediate steps should I take to protect my site from CVE-2024-2931?
To protect your site from CVE-2024-2931, the most crucial step is to update the WPFront User Role Editor plugin to the latest patched version, which is 4.1.0. This update includes the necessary fixes to address the vulnerability and secure your website against potential information exposure.
Before updating, it’s wise to back up your website to prevent any data loss or issues that may arise during the update process. Keeping your plugins and themes up to date is essential for safeguarding your website against known vulnerabilities.
Can unauthenticated users exploit CVE-2024-2931?
Can unauthenticated users exploit CVE-2024-2931?
No, unauthenticated users cannot directly exploit CVE-2024-2931. This vulnerability requires the attacker to have subscriber-level access or higher to exploit the information exposure flaw.
However, this does not diminish the severity of the vulnerability, as subscriber-level access can be relatively easy to obtain, especially on sites with open registration. It highlights the need for robust user role management and vigilant monitoring of user activities.
What is Sensitive Information Exposure?
What is Sensitive Information Exposure?
Sensitive Information Exposure refers to a security vulnerability where sensitive data, such as user credentials, personal information, or proprietary data, is inadequately protected and can be accessed by unauthorized parties. This can occur due to misconfigurations, insufficient security controls, or flaws within the application.
Exposing sensitive information can lead to privacy breaches, identity theft, financial fraud, and other malicious activities. Protecting sensitive data is paramount for maintaining the trust and integrity of digital platforms.
Will updating the WPFront User Role Editor plugin affect my website’s functionality?
Will updating the WPFront User Role Editor plugin affect my website’s functionality?
Updating the WPFront User Role Editor plugin to address CVE-2024-2931 should not negatively impact your website’s functionality. Plugin updates are designed to fix vulnerabilities and bugs without altering the core functionality that users rely on.
It’s always a good practice to perform a backup before applying updates to ensure you can revert to a previous state if any issues arise during the update process. This precautionary step helps safeguard your data and maintain site stability.
Are there alternatives to the WPFront User Role Editor plugin?
Are there alternatives to the WPFront User Role Editor plugin?
Yes, there are alternatives to the WPFront User Role Editor plugin that offer similar functionalities for managing user roles and capabilities within WordPress. Some notable alternatives include User Role Editor, Members, and Capability Manager Enhanced.
When considering an alternative, it’s important to assess each plugin’s features, user reviews, and security track record. Regardless of the plugin you choose, ensuring it is regularly updated and maintained is crucial for security.
How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?
How can I stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins?
To stay informed about vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins, regularly check reputable security sources and blogs, such as Wordfence, Sucuri, and the official WordPress Plugin Vulnerability Database. Subscribing to security newsletters and following plugin developers for updates can also keep you informed.
Using security plugins that offer vulnerability scanning and notifications can provide timely alerts about potential threats, enabling you to take proactive measures to secure your site.
What are best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site?
What are best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site?
Best practices for maintaining a secure WordPress site include regularly updating the WordPress core, plugins, and themes to their latest versions, using strong, unique passwords for all user accounts, employing security plugins for continuous monitoring and threat mitigation, setting up a web application firewall (WAF), and conducting regular backups.
Educating yourself and your site’s users about security awareness and the importance of secure practices is also crucial for bolstering your site’s defenses against potential vulnerabilities and attacks. Adopting a proactive and informed approach to website security is essential for protecting your digital presence.