CVE-2020-9459 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

Multiple Stored Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities in the Webnus Modern Events Calendar Lite plugin through 5.1.6 for WordPress allow remote authenticated users to inject arbitrary JavaScript, HTML, or CSS via Ajax actions.

Understanding CVE-2020-9459

This CVE involves multiple XSS vulnerabilities in a popular WordPress plugin, potentially enabling attackers to execute malicious scripts on affected websites.

What is CVE-2020-9459?

The CVE-2020-9459 vulnerability pertains to the Webnus Modern Events Calendar Lite plugin for WordPress, allowing authenticated users with minimal permissions to inject arbitrary JavaScript, HTML, or CSS through specific Ajax actions, namely mec_save_notifications and import_settings.

The Impact of CVE-2020-9459

The exploitation of these vulnerabilities could lead to various security risks, including unauthorized access, data manipulation, and potential site takeover by malicious actors.

Technical Details of CVE-2020-9459

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

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows remote authenticated users to insert malicious scripts into the plugin, posing a significant risk to the security of WordPress websites utilizing the affected versions.

Affected Systems and Versions

Webnus Modern Events Calendar Lite plugin through version 5.1.6 for WordPress

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit the vulnerability by leveraging the mec_save_notifications and import_settings Ajax actions to inject unauthorized JavaScript, HTML, or CSS code.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2020-9459 requires immediate actions and long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Webnus Modern Events Calendar Lite plugin to the latest secure version.
Monitor and restrict user permissions to minimize the risk of unauthorized injections.
Implement web application firewalls to filter and block malicious payloads.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly audit and review plugins for security vulnerabilities.
Educate users on safe practices to prevent XSS attacks.
Conduct security assessments and penetration testing to identify and address potential weaknesses.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories and promptly apply patches released by the plugin vendor to address known vulnerabilities.