CVE-2020-11030 : What You Need to Know

In affected versions of WordPress, a special payload can be crafted that can lead to scripts getting executed within the search block of the block editor. This requires an authenticated user with the ability to add content. This has been patched in version 5.4.1, along with all the previously affected versions via a minor release (5.3.3, 5.2.6, 5.1.5, 5.0.9, 4.9.14, 4.8.13, 4.7.17, 4.6.18, 4.5.21, 4.4.22, 4.3.23, 4.2.27, 4.1.30, 4.0.30, 3.9.31, 3.8.33, 3.7.33).

Understanding CVE-2020-11030

In this section, we will delve into the details of the CVE-2020-11030 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2020-11030?

CVE-2020-11030 is a Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability found in the Search block in WordPress.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11030

The impact of this vulnerability is rated as MEDIUM with a base score of 6.4. It requires low privileges and user interaction, affecting the integrity and confidentiality of the system.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11030

Let's explore the technical aspects of CVE-2020-11030.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows for the execution of scripts within the search block of the block editor by crafting a special payload.

Affected Systems and Versions

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

Exploitation Mechanism

The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated users with the ability to add content, allowing them to execute scripts within the search block.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2020-11030, follow these mitigation strategies:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update WordPress to version 5.4.1 or the latest release.
Restrict user permissions to minimize the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and audit user-generated content.
Educate users on safe content creation practices to prevent XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates from WordPress and apply patches promptly to secure your system.