CVE-2020-36731 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

WordPress plugin Flexible Checkout Fields for WooCommerce is vulnerable to Unauthenticated Arbitrary Plugin Settings update and Stored Cross-Site Scripting up to version 2.3.1.

Understanding CVE-2020-36731

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in the Flexible Checkout Fields for WooCommerce plugin for WordPress.

What is CVE-2020-36731?

The vulnerability allows for Unauthenticated Arbitrary Plugin Settings update and Stored Cross-Site Scripting due to missing authorization checks and sanitization on settings.

The Impact of CVE-2020-36731

The vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to manipulate plugin settings and execute malicious scripts, potentially leading to site takeover and data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-36731

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

Vulnerability Description

Unauthenticated Arbitrary Plugin Settings update and Stored Cross-Site Scripting in the plugin up to version 2.3.1.

Affected Systems and Versions

Vendor: wpdesk
Product: Flexible Checkout Fields for WooCommerce – WooCommerce Checkout Manager
Versions affected: Up to and including 2.3.1

Exploitation Mechanism

Missing authorization checks on the updateSettingsAction() function
Lack of sanitization and escaping on stored settings

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-36731 requires immediate actions and long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the plugin to version 2.3.2 or higher
Monitor for any unauthorized changes in plugin settings
Implement strict input validation and output escaping in WordPress plugins

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and update plugins and themes
Educate users on safe plugin installation and configuration practices

Patching and Updates

Apply security patches promptly
Stay informed about plugin vulnerabilities and updates