CVE-2021-24281 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of the CVE-2021-24281 affecting the Redirection for Contact Form 7 plugin before version 2.3.4.

Understanding CVE-2021-24281

This CVE involves an authenticated arbitrary post deletion vulnerability in the Redirection for Contact Form 7 plugin.

What is CVE-2021-24281?

In the Redirection for Contact Form 7 WordPress plugin before 2.3.4, any authenticated user, such as a subscriber, could use the delete_action_post AJAX action to delete any post on a target site.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24281

This vulnerability could allow a malicious authenticated user to delete posts on a target site, potentially leading to data loss and unauthorized content removal.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24281

This section provides a deeper understanding of the vulnerability, affected systems, and how it can be exploited.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability allows authenticated users to delete any post on a targeted site using the delete_action_post AJAX action.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Redirection for Contact Form 7 plugin version prior to 2.3.4 is affected by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

An authenticated user, such as a subscriber, can exploit the delete_action_post AJAX action to delete posts on a target site.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24281 and prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Redirection for Contact Form 7 plugin to version 2.3.4 or higher to prevent exploitation of this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins and maintain strong authentication mechanisms to enhance overall security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for plugins to address known vulnerabilities.