CVE-2020-11508 : Security Advisory and Response

An XSS vulnerability in the WP Lead Plus X plugin through 0.98 for WordPress allows logged-in users with minimal permissions to create or replace existing pages with a malicious page containing arbitrary JavaScript via the wp_ajax_core37_lp_save_page (aka core37_lp_save_page) AJAX action.

Understanding CVE-2020-11508

This CVE involves a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the WP Lead Plus X plugin for WordPress.

What is CVE-2020-11508?

CVE-2020-11508 is an XSS vulnerability in the WP Lead Plus X plugin through version 0.98 for WordPress. It enables authenticated users with limited permissions to craft or substitute pages with malicious content using arbitrary JavaScript.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11508

This vulnerability allows attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts within the context of the affected site, potentially leading to various security risks such as data theft, unauthorized actions, and site defacement.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11508

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The XSS flaw in WP Lead Plus X plugin version 0.98 permits authenticated users with restricted privileges to insert harmful JavaScript code into pages via the wp_ajax_core37_lp_save_page AJAX action.

Affected Systems and Versions

Affected System: WordPress with WP Lead Plus X plugin version 0.98
Affected Users: Authenticated users with limited permissions

Exploitation Mechanism

Attack Vector: Authenticated
Attack Complexity: Low
Privileges Required: Minimal

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-11508 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Disable or remove the WP Lead Plus X plugin if not essential
Monitor for any unauthorized page creations or modifications
Implement strict permission controls for user actions

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and WordPress core to patch vulnerabilities
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address weaknesses
Educate users on safe practices to prevent XSS attacks

Patching and Updates

Update WP Lead Plus X plugin to a secure version
Apply security patches promptly to mitigate known vulnerabilities