CVE-2021-24202 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-24202, an Authenticated XSS vulnerability in Elementor plugin impacting 7 million websites. Find out the impact, exploitation details, and mitigation steps.
In the Elementor Website Builder WordPress plugin before version 3.1.4, a vulnerability in the heading widget allows users with Contributor or above permissions to execute malicious JavaScript code through a manipulated request. This could lead to a Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) attack.
Understanding CVE-2021-24202
This CVE identifies a security flaw in the Elementor plugin that could enable attackers to inject and execute harmful scripts on compromised websites.
What is CVE-2021-24202?
CVE-2021-24202 refers to an Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Elementor Website Builder plugin, allowing unauthorized users to insert malicious scripts into saved pages.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24202
The impact of this CVE is significant as it exposes over 7 million websites using the Elementor plugin to potential XSS attacks, leading to data theft, defacement, or malware injection.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24202
This section delves into the specifics of the vulnerability and how it affects systems and users.
Vulnerability Description
In Elementor Website Builder before 3.1.4, the heading widget could be manipulated to execute JavaScript code via a crafted request, posing an XSS risk.
Affected Systems and Versions
The vulnerability affects Elementor versions prior to 3.1.4. Users with Contributor or higher permissions are at risk of exploitation through this security flaw.
Exploitation Mechanism
By sending a modified 'save_builder' request with a custom 'header_size' parameter set to 'script' and 'title' parameter containing JavaScript, an attacker can trigger the execution of malicious scripts.
Mitigation and Prevention
To safeguard websites from this vulnerability, immediate actions need to be taken along with adopting long-term security practices.
Immediate Steps to Take
Update the Elementor plugin to version 3.1.4 or newer to patch the XSS vulnerability. Monitor for any suspicious activities on affected websites.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update plugins and themes, employ web application firewalls, conduct security audits, and educate users on safe practices to mitigate XSS risks.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security advisories from Elementor and security researchers. Apply patches promptly to protect websites from emerging threats.