CVE-2019-16780 : What You Need to Know

WordPress users with lower privileges, such as contributors, were able to inject JavaScript code in the block editor, potentially leading to a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability. This CVE has a base score of 5.8 (Medium severity) and requires user interaction for exploitation.

Understanding CVE-2019-16780

This CVE involves a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the WordPress block editor.

What is CVE-2019-16780?

The block editor in WordPress allowed users with lower privileges to inject JavaScript code, posing a risk of XSS attacks when an admin opens the post in the editor.

The Impact of CVE-2019-16780

CVSS Base Score: 5.8 (Medium severity)
Attack Complexity: High
Attack Vector: Network
Confidentiality Impact: High
Integrity Impact: None
Privileges Required: Low
User Interaction: Required
Scope: Changed
Vector String: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:H/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:H/I:N/A:N

Technical Details of CVE-2019-16780

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

WordPress users with lower privileges could inject JavaScript code in the block editor, potentially leading to XSS when an admin interacts with the post.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected Product: WordPress
Affected Versions: < 5.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability required an authenticated user with lower privileges to inject malicious JavaScript code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your systems and follow best practices to prevent such vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update WordPress to version 5.3.1 or later to patch the vulnerability.
Enable automatic updates for minor releases to ensure timely security fixes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update WordPress installations.
Educate users on secure coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly to protect against known vulnerabilities.