CVE-2021-24452 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis
Learn about CVE-2021-24452, a critical reflected XSS vulnerability in W3 Total Cache plugin version 2.1.5 and earlier. Follow mitigation strategies to secure WordPress sites.
A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24452, a reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the W3 Total Cache plugin before version 2.1.5.
Understanding CVE-2021-24452
This section covers the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2021-24452.
What is CVE-2021-24452?
The W3 Total Cache WordPress plugin before version 2.1.5 is susceptible to a reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) issue in the "extension" parameter within the Extensions dashboard.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24452
With the 'Anonymously track usage to improve product quality' setting enabled, an attacker could execute malicious JavaScript in a user's browser by convincing an authenticated admin to click a crafted link, potentially leading to a complete site compromise.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24452
Explore the vulnerability description, affected systems, versions, and the exploitation mechanism in this section.
Vulnerability Description
The XSS vulnerability arises due to improper escaping of the "extension" parameter, allowing malicious JavaScript execution in a JavaScript context.
Affected Systems and Versions
W3 Total Cache versions below 2.1.5 are impacted by this XSS flaw, specifically affecting those with the 'Anonymously track usage to improve product quality' setting enabled.
Exploitation Mechanism
By manipulating the "extension" parameter and tricking an authorized admin to click a malicious link, an attacker can introduce harmful scripts into the user's browser.
Mitigation and Prevention
Discover immediate steps and long-term security best practices for addressing CVE-2021-24452.
Immediate Steps to Take
Ensure to update the W3 Total Cache plugin to version 2.1.5 or later, and disable the 'Anonymously track usage to improve product quality' feature to mitigate the risk.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly monitor plugin updates, educate users on phishing threats, and implement robust security measures to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security patches released by BoldGrid for the W3 Total Cache plugin to safeguard against potential XSS exploits.