CVE-2020-11511 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The LearnPress plugin for WordPress before version 3.2.6.9 is vulnerable to privilege escalation, allowing remote attackers to elevate user privileges.

Understanding CVE-2020-11511

This CVE identifies a security issue in the LearnPress plugin for WordPress that enables attackers to escalate user privileges.

What is CVE-2020-11511?

The vulnerability in the LearnPress plugin allows malicious actors to raise the privileges of any user to LP Instructor by exploiting a specific action parameter.

The Impact of CVE-2020-11511

Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized users gaining elevated privileges within the LearnPress plugin, potentially compromising the security and integrity of the WordPress site.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-11511

The technical aspects of the CVE provide insight into the vulnerability and its implications.

Vulnerability Description

The LearnPress plugin before version 3.2.6.9 for WordPress is susceptible to privilege escalation through the accept-to-be-teacher action parameter.

Affected Systems and Versions

Product: LearnPress plugin
Vendor: N/A
Versions affected: N/A

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the accept-to-be-teacher action parameter to escalate user privileges to LP Instructor.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-11511 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the LearnPress plugin to version 3.2.6.9 or later to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor user privileges and access levels to detect any unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and software to patch known vulnerabilities.
Implement least privilege access controls to limit the impact of potential privilege escalation attacks.
Conduct security audits and penetration testing to identify and address security weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Ensure that all software, including the LearnPress plugin, is promptly updated to the latest versions to address security vulnerabilities.