CVE-2019-14786 Explained : Impact and Mitigation
Discover how CVE-2019-14786 affects the Rank Math SEO plugin for WordPress. Learn about the security risk, impact, and mitigation steps to secure your website.
A vulnerability in the Rank Math SEO plugin 1.0.27 for WordPress allows non-admin users to reset settings, posing a security risk.
Understanding CVE-2019-14786
This CVE entry highlights a specific security issue within the Rank Math SEO plugin for WordPress.
What is CVE-2019-14786?
The vulnerability enables non-administrative users to reset the plugin's settings by utilizing a specific parameter in the plugin's URL.
The Impact of CVE-2019-14786
This vulnerability can be exploited by unauthorized users to manipulate the plugin's settings, potentially leading to unauthorized changes and data loss.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-14786
This section delves into the technical aspects of the vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
Non-admin users can reset Rank Math SEO plugin settings by using the reset-cmb parameter in the wp-admin/admin-post.php URL.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Rank Math SEO plugin 1.0.27
- Vendor: N/A
- Version: N/A
Exploitation Mechanism
The vulnerability is exploited by non-admin users manipulating the reset-cmb parameter in the plugin's URL.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from this vulnerability requires immediate action and long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Rank Math SEO plugin to the latest version.
- Restrict access to wp-admin to authorized users only.
- Monitor plugin settings for unauthorized changes.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update all plugins and WordPress installations.
- Implement strong user access controls and permissions.
- Conduct security audits and penetration testing regularly.
- Educate users on best security practices.
- Stay informed about security vulnerabilities and patches.
- Utilize security plugins and firewalls.
- Backup website data regularly.
- Implement two-factor authentication.
- Consider security monitoring services.
Patching and Updates
Ensure that the Rank Math SEO plugin is updated to the latest version to patch the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized access.