CVE-2021-24431 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

The Language Bar Flags WordPress plugin through version 1.0.8 is vulnerable to CSRF to Stored XSS attack due to missing CSRF protection when saving settings and lack of sanitization when generating the flag bar.

Understanding CVE-2021-24431

This CVE identifies a security vulnerability in the Language Bar Flags WordPress plugin version 1.0.8 that can lead to Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) by exploiting a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) weakness.

What is CVE-2021-24431?

The Language Bar Flags WordPress plugin version 1.0.8 lacks CSRF protection when saving settings, allowing attackers to change settings with XSS payloads executed on the frontend.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24431

This vulnerability could enable malicious actors to manipulate the plugin settings to execute harmful scripts visible to all users, posing a significant security risk to websites using the affected version.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24431

The vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism provide insight into the specifics of this security issue.

Vulnerability Description

The insecure implementation in the Language Bar Flags WordPress plugin up to version 1.0.8 permits attackers to inject malicious scripts via CSRF attacks, leading to XSS exploitation on the frontend.

Affected Systems and Versions

Language Bar Flags plugin versions up to and including 1.0.8 are impacted by this vulnerability, exposing websites to the risk of malicious script injection.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the lack of CSRF protection and input sanitization, threat actors can manipulate settings within the plugin to incorporate harmful XSS payloads, endangering site security.

Mitigation and Prevention

Taking immediate steps, implementing long-term security practices, and applying necessary patches are crucial to mitigating the risks associated with CVE-2021-24431.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should deactivate or update the Language Bar Flags plugin to a secure version to prevent potential exploitation of this vulnerability.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly updating plugins, employing web application firewalls, and conducting security audits can enhance overall website security and prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

The plugin vendor or developers should release a patch addressing the CSRF to Stored XSS vulnerability, prompting users to apply the update to secure their WordPress installations.