CVE-2021-24297 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-24297, a security flaw in the Goto WordPress theme below version 2.1, enabling unauthenticated Reflected Cross-site Scripting (XSS) attacks. Find out the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24297, a vulnerability in the Goto WordPress theme before version 2.1 that leads to an unauthenticated Reflected Cross-site Scripting (XSS) threat.
Understanding CVE-2021-24297
This section delves into the nature of the vulnerability and its implications.
What is CVE-2021-24297?
The Goto WordPress theme, versions prior to 2.1, lacks proper sanitization of formvalue JSON POST parameter in the tl_filter AJAX action, creating a potential for unauthenticated Reflected Cross-site Scripting (XSS) attacks.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24297
The unpatched vulnerability allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users, leading to possible data theft or unauthorized actions on the affected site.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24297
In-depth technical insights into the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation avenues.
Vulnerability Description
The flaw arises from inadequate handling of formvalue JSON POST parameter in the tl_filter AJAX action, paving the way for XSS attacks without authentication.
Affected Systems and Versions
Goto WordPress theme versions prior to 2.1 are susceptible to this XSS vulnerability, indicating a wide attack surface among users of older versions.
Exploitation Mechanism
By manipulating the formvalue JSON POST parameter, threat actors can inject and execute arbitrary scripts within the context of the user's browser, posing severe risks to data confidentiality and integrity.
Mitigation and Prevention
Guidelines on minimizing the risk posed by CVE-2021-24297 and securing WordPress installations.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users are advised to update the Goto theme to version 2.1 or newer to mitigate the XSS risk and ensure the safety of their WordPress sites.
Long-Term Security Practices
Implement robust input validation mechanisms, employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers, and conduct regular security audits to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Staying vigilant for security patches released by theme developers and promptly applying them can fortify WordPress themes against emerging threats.