CVE-2018-18460 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2018-18460, a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in WordPress plugin wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15. Find out the impact, affected systems, exploitation method, and mitigation steps.
WordPress plugin wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15 contains a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the gdpr.php module's term parameter, exploitable through a specific request.
Understanding CVE-2018-18460
This CVE involves a security issue in the wp-live-chat-support plugin for WordPress, potentially allowing malicious actors to execute XSS attacks.
What is CVE-2018-18460?
The vulnerability lies in the term parameter of the gdpr.php module within the wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15 plugin for WordPress. Attackers can exploit this flaw via a wp-admin/admin.php wplivechat-menu-gdpr-page request.
The Impact of CVE-2018-18460
The XSS vulnerability could enable attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by users, leading to various security risks such as data theft, unauthorized actions, and site defacement.
Technical Details of CVE-2018-18460
This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15 plugin for WordPress is susceptible to XSS attacks due to inadequate input validation in the gdpr.php module's term parameter.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Affected Product: wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15
- Affected Version: Not applicable
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability can be exploited by sending a crafted request to the wp-admin/admin.php wplivechat-menu-gdpr-page endpoint, allowing malicious scripts to be executed in the context of the user's browser.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2018-18460 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable or remove the wp-live-chat-support v8.0.15 plugin if not essential
- Implement web application firewalls to filter and block malicious requests
- Regularly monitor and audit web application logs for suspicious activities
Long-Term Security Practices
- Keep plugins and software up to date to patch known vulnerabilities
- Educate users and administrators on safe browsing habits and security best practices
- Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses
Patching and Updates
- Check for security updates or patches released by the plugin developer
- Apply updates promptly to mitigate the risk of exploitation