CVE-2021-24163 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-24163, the vulnerability in Ninja Forms WordPress plugin allowing low-level users to install and activate the SendWP plugin and disclose sensitive information. Find mitigation strategies and preventive measures.
This article provides an overview of CVE-2021-24163, highlighting the vulnerability in Ninja Forms plugin for WordPress that allowed low-level users to install and activate the SendWP plugin and retrieve sensitive information.
Understanding CVE-2021-24163
In this section, we will delve into the details of the CVE-2021-24163 vulnerability affecting Ninja Forms WordPress plugin.
What is CVE-2021-24163?
The vulnerability in Ninja Forms plugin allowed low-level users to install and activate the SendWP plugin and retrieve sensitive information, including the client_secret key needed to establish the SendWP connection.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24163
The security issue in Ninja Forms plugin enabled unauthorized actors, such as subscribers, to potentially expose sensitive information and take control of the SendWP plugin before version 3.4.34.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24163
This section will outline the technical aspects of the CVE-2021-24163 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability stemmed from the lack of capability check and nonce protection on the AJAX action wp_ajax_ninja_forms_sendwp_remote_install_handler, allowing low-level users to perform unauthorized SendWP plugin installations.
Affected Systems and Versions
The affected version of Ninja Forms Contact Form plugin for WordPress is versions prior to 3.4.34.
Exploitation Mechanism
Low-level users, such as subscribers, could exploit the vulnerability to install and activate the SendWP plugin, gaining access to the client_secret key.
Mitigation and Prevention
In this section, we will discuss the mitigation strategies and preventive measures against CVE-2021-24163.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update Ninja Forms Contact Form plugin to version 3.4.34 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability and enhance security.
Long-Term Security Practices
Practicing least privilege access, regular plugin updates, and security audits can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Patching and Updates
Regularly checking for plugin updates and applying patches promptly is crucial to stay protected from known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-24163.