CVE-2019-18855 : What You Need to Know
Learn about CVE-2019-18855, a Denial of Service vulnerability in Safe-svg plugin for WordPress versions up to 1.9.4. Find mitigation steps and prevention measures.
Safe-svg (Safe SVG) plugin through version 1.9.4 for WordPress is vulnerable to Denial of Service attacks due to potentially undesirable elements or attributes.
Understanding CVE-2019-18855
The vulnerability in the Safe-svg plugin allows for Denial of Service attacks in WordPress websites.
What is CVE-2019-18855?
This CVE identifies a Denial of Service vulnerability in the Safe-svg plugin for WordPress versions up to 1.9.4, caused by potentially unwanted elements or attributes.
The Impact of CVE-2019-18855
The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to disrupt the availability of WordPress websites, leading to service unavailability and potential data loss.
Technical Details of CVE-2019-18855
The technical aspects of the CVE-2019-18855 vulnerability are as follows:
Vulnerability Description
The Safe-svg (Safe SVG) plugin through version 1.9.4 for WordPress is susceptible to Denial of Service attacks due to the presence of potentially undesirable elements or attributes.
Affected Systems and Versions
- Product: Not applicable
- Vendor: Not applicable
- Versions: Up to 1.9.4
Exploitation Mechanism
Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending specially crafted requests to the affected plugin, causing it to consume excessive resources and leading to a Denial of Service condition.
Mitigation and Prevention
Protecting systems from CVE-2019-18855 involves taking immediate and long-term security measures:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Disable or remove the Safe-svg plugin if not essential for website functionality.
- Monitor website performance for any signs of unusual activity.
- Implement network-level protections to mitigate potential attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly update WordPress plugins and themes to patch known vulnerabilities.
- Conduct security audits to identify and address any weaknesses in the website's configuration.
Patching and Updates
- Check for plugin updates and apply patches provided by the plugin developer.
- Stay informed about security advisories related to WordPress plugins to address vulnerabilities promptly.