CVE-2021-24206 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24206, a cross-site scripting vulnerability found in the Elementor Website Builder WordPress plugin.

Understanding CVE-2021-24206

This section provides insights into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-24206 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-24206?

CVE-2021-24206 is an authenticated stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability present in the Elementor Website Builder plugin before version 3.1.4. This flaw enables users with Contributor or above permissions to inject and execute malicious JavaScript code through the 'title_size' parameter of the image box widget.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24206

The vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code in the context of the affected site, potentially leading to compromised user data, defacement, or further attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24206

Exploring the specifics of the CVE-2021-20657 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

In the vulnerable versions of Elementor Website Builder, the image box widget fails to properly filter and escape JavaScript code input through the 'title_size' parameter, triggering XSS attacks upon rendering the saved page.

Affected Systems and Versions

The issue affects Elementor Website Builder versions prior to 3.1.4.

Exploitation Mechanism

By sending a crafted 'save_builder' request with malicious JavaScript in the 'title_size' parameter, attackers can trigger the stored XSS vulnerability.

Mitigation and Prevention

Best practices to address and prevent exploitation of the CVE-2021-24206 vulnerability.

Immediate Steps to Take

Site administrators should update the Elementor Website Builder plugin to version 3.1.4 or later to mitigate the risk of exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly review and monitor plugin updates, apply security patches promptly, and validate user input to prevent XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security advisories, follow vendor recommendations, and maintain proactive security measures to safeguard against XSS vulnerabilities.