CVE-2021-24356 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A lack of capability checks and insufficient nonce check in the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks WordPress plugin before 2.0.4 allows authenticated users to activate arbitrary plugins on vulnerable sites.

Understanding CVE-2021-20657

This CVE affects the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks WordPress plugin versions 2.0.0 to 2.0.3, allowing authenticated users to activate arbitrary plugins.

What is CVE-2021-20657?

In the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks WordPress plugin before version 2.0.4, a lack of capability checks and insufficient nonce check on the AJAX action enabled authenticated users to activate arbitrary plugins.

The Impact of CVE-2021-20657

This vulnerability could be exploited by authenticated users to activate unauthorized plugins on affected WordPress sites, potentially leading to further compromise or unauthorized actions.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24356

This section outlines the specific technical details of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks plugin arises from the lack of capability checks and a deficient nonce check on a specific AJAX action.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions 2.0.0 to 2.0.3 of the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks WordPress plugin are impacted by this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

Authenticated users can exploit this vulnerability by performing the AJAX action simple301redirects/admin/activate_plugin, allowing them to activate arbitrary plugins.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24356, immediate actions and long-term security practices are recommended.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Simple 301 Redirects by BetterLinks plugin to version 2.0.4 or newer to patch the vulnerability.
Monitor plugin activity and user permissions to prevent unauthorized activations.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update and maintain all WordPress plugins and themes to ensure the latest security patches are in place.
Implement strict access controls and user permissions to limit the impact of potential vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

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