CVE-2020-36703 : Security Advisory and Response

The Elementor Website Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via SVG image uploads.

Understanding CVE-2020-36703

The Elementor Website Builder plugin for WordPress is susceptible to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability through SVG image uploads.

What is CVE-2020-36703?

The CVE-2020-36703 vulnerability allows authenticated attackers to inject malicious web scripts via SVG image uploads, affecting versions up to and including 2.9.7 of the Elementor plugin.

The Impact of CVE-2020-36703

This vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary web scripts on pages, compromising the security and integrity of the affected WordPress websites.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-36703

The technical aspects of the CVE-2020-36703 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper handling of SVG image uploads, allowing attackers with the upload_files capability to insert malicious scripts that execute when accessed by users.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: elemntor
Product: Elementor Website Builder – More than Just a Page Builder
Versions Affected: Up to and including 2.9.7

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with the upload_files capability can exploit this vulnerability by uploading SVG images containing malicious scripts, which are then executed when users access the compromised pages.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-36703.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Elementor plugin to version 2.9.8 or higher to mitigate the vulnerability.
Monitor website activity for any signs of unauthorized script execution.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and themes to patch security vulnerabilities.
Implement strict file upload restrictions to prevent the upload of potentially harmful files.
Educate users on safe practices for handling file uploads on WordPress websites.

Patching and Updates

Ensure the Elementor plugin is kept up to date with the latest patches and security fixes to prevent exploitation of the CVE-2020-36703 vulnerability.