CVE-2021-24336 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The FlightLog WordPress plugin through version 3.0.2 is vulnerable to an authenticated SQL Injection attack that could be exploited by editor and administrator users. This CVE was discovered by Shreya Pohekar of Codevigilant Project.

Understanding CVE-2021-24336

This section will provide an overview of what CVE-2021-24336 is all about.

What is CVE-2021-24336?

The FlightLog WordPress plugin version 3.0.2 and below fails to properly sanitize, validate, or escape various POST parameters before utilizing them in an SQL statement. This security flaw allows for SQL injection attacks, which can be leveraged by editor and administrator-level users.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24336

The vulnerability in FlightLog plugin exposes websites to the risk of unauthorized access, data theft, and potential manipulation by malicious actors, particularly editor and administrator users.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24336

In this section, we will delve into the technical aspects of CVE-2021-24336.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in FlightLog plugin arises from the lack of proper input validation, enabling attackers to inject malicious SQL queries into the database, resulting in unauthorized data access.

Affected Systems and Versions

FlightLog versions up to and including 3.0.2 are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Exploiting this vulnerability requires authenticated access as an editor or administrator user to execute SQL injection attacks through manipulated POST parameters.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-24336, immediate actions and long-term security measures need to be implemented.

Immediate Steps to Take

Affected users are advised to update the FlightLog plugin to a patched version beyond 3.0.2 and closely monitor for any suspicious activities on their WordPress websites.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enhance website security by regularly updating plugins, employing web application firewalls, implementing secure coding practices, and conducting security audits.

Patching and Updates

Plugin vendors should release security patches promptly, and users must promptly apply updates to mitigate the risk of SQL injection attacks like CVE-2021-24336.