CVE-2021-24204 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Find out about CVE-2021-24204, a WordPress plugin vulnerability allowing Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in the Elementor Website Builder before version 3.1.4. Learn about its impact and mitigation.
A detailed overview of the Elementor Website Builder WordPress plugin vulnerability that allows for Authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) in the Accordion Widget.
Understanding CVE-2021-24204
This CVE involves an authenticated stored XSS vulnerability in the Elementor Website Builder plugin prior to version 3.1.4, allowing users with Contributor or above permissions to execute malicious JavaScript.
What is CVE-2021-24204?
In the vulnerable plugin, the accordion widget accepts a 'title_html_tag' parameter that can be manipulated by an authenticated user to inject and execute JavaScript code, leading to XSS attacks.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24204
The vulnerability poses a serious security risk as it allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of a user's browser, potentially compromising sensitive data.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24204
This section covers the specific technical details of the CVE.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw arises from improper input validation in the 'title_html_tag' parameter of the accordion widget, enabling unauthorized execution of JavaScript code.
Affected Systems and Versions
The Elementor Website Builder plugin versions prior to 3.1.4 are susceptible to this XSS vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
By sending a crafted 'save_builder' request containing JavaScript in the 'title_html_tag' parameter, an attacker can trigger the execution of malicious code.
Mitigation and Prevention
Learn how to safeguard your systems against CVE-2021-24204.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update the Elementor Website Builder plugin to version 3.1.4 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement strict input validation mechanisms and ensure regular security audits to prevent XSS vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin developer to address known vulnerabilities and enhance overall security.