CVE-2020-11025 : What You Need to Know

WordPress versions prior to 5.4.1 are affected by a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Customizer's navigation section, allowing execution of JavaScript code by authenticated users. This CVE has a CVSS base score of 5.8 (Medium severity).

Understanding CVE-2020-11025

In this section, we will delve into the details of the authenticated cross-site scripting vulnerability in WordPress Customizer.

What is CVE-2020-11025?

CVE-2020-11025 refers to a security flaw in WordPress that enables an authenticated user to execute malicious JavaScript code through a cross-site scripting vulnerability in the Customizer's navigation section.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11025

The vulnerability has a CVSS base score of 5.8, indicating a Medium severity level. The attack complexity is high, requiring low privileges and user interaction. It affects the confidentiality of data.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11025

Let's explore the technical aspects of this CVE in more detail.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS vulnerability in the navigation section of Customizer in affected WordPress versions allows for the execution of JavaScript code by authenticated users.

Affected Systems and Versions

The following WordPress versions are impacted by this vulnerability:

WordPress 5.4.0 to 5.4.1
WordPress 5.3.0 to 5.3.3
WordPress 5.2.0 to 5.2.6
WordPress 5.1.0 to 5.1.5
WordPress 5.0.0 to 5.0.9
WordPress 4.9.0 to 4.9.14
WordPress 4.8.0 to 4.8.13
WordPress 4.7.0 to 4.7.17
WordPress 4.6.0 to 4.6.18
WordPress 4.5.0 to 4.5.21
WordPress 4.4.0 to 4.4.22
WordPress 4.3.0 to 4.3.23
WordPress 4.2.0 to 4.2.27
WordPress 4.1.0 to 4.1.30
WordPress 4.0.0 to 4.0.30
WordPress 3.9.0 to 3.9.31
WordPress 3.8.0 to 3.8.33
WordPress 3.7.0 to 3.7.33

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires an authenticated user to inject and execute malicious JavaScript code in the Customizer's navigation section.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to protect your WordPress site from this XSS vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update WordPress to version 5.4.1 or the latest release to patch the vulnerability.
Regularly monitor for security advisories and apply updates promptly.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation and output encoding to prevent XSS attacks.
Educate users on safe browsing habits and the risks of executing untrusted scripts.

Patching and Updates

Ensure timely installation of security patches and updates provided by WordPress to address known vulnerabilities.