CVE-2017-18508 : Security Advisory and Response

WordPress plugin wp-live-chat-support version 7.1.03 and earlier is vulnerable to an XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) attack.

Understanding CVE-2017-18508

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in the wp-live-chat-support plugin for WordPress.

What is CVE-2017-18508?

The wp-live-chat-support plugin version 7.1.03 and earlier in WordPress is susceptible to XSS attacks, allowing malicious actors to execute scripts in a victim's browser.

The Impact of CVE-2017-18508

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, defacement, and other malicious activities on websites using the affected plugin.

Technical Details of CVE-2017-18508

The technical aspects of this CVE include:

Vulnerability Description

The wp-live-chat-support plugin before version 7.1.03 for WordPress is prone to XSS attacks, enabling attackers to inject malicious scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: Not applicable
Vendor: Not applicable
Versions affected: 7.1.03 and earlier

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by injecting malicious scripts through the plugin, which are then executed in the context of the victim's browser.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems from CVE-2017-18508 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the wp-live-chat-support plugin to the latest version.
Consider disabling the plugin if an update is not available.
Implement web application firewalls to filter and block malicious traffic.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit plugins for security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on identifying and reporting suspicious activities on websites.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for all installed plugins.
Apply patches promptly to mitigate known vulnerabilities.