CVE-2021-24478 : Security Advisory and Response
Learn about CVE-2021-24478 affecting Bookshelf plugin <= 2.0.4, allowing authenticated attackers to execute stored Cross-Site Scripting. Find out the impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.
The Bookshelf WordPress plugin through version 2.0.4 is vulnerable to an authenticated Stored Cross-Site Scripting issue due to inadequate sanitization of the 'Paypal email address' setting.
Understanding CVE-2021-24478
This CVE relates to a security vulnerability in the Bookshelf WordPress plugin (version 2.0.4 and below) that could allow an attacker to execute malicious scripts within the context of a user's session.
What is CVE-2021-24478?
The vulnerability in the Bookshelf plugin allows an authenticated attacker to store malicious scripts, such as XSS, leveraging the 'Paypal email address' setting. This could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, or further attacks.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24478
This vulnerability could result in the compromise of sensitive data, unauthorized actions on behalf of authenticated users, and the potential for full system control by malicious actors.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24478
The technical details of CVE-2021-24478 include:
Vulnerability Description
The issue arises from the lack of proper sanitization of user inputs in the 'Paypal email address' setting, allowing attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts.
Affected Systems and Versions
Bookshelf plugin versions up to and including 2.0.4 are affected by this vulnerability, exposing websites to exploitation by malicious threat actors.
Exploitation Mechanism
Malicious actors with authenticated access can exploit this vulnerability by inserting crafted scripts into the 'Paypal email address' field, leading to the execution of unauthorized code.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24478, consider the following steps:
Immediate Steps to Take
- Update the Bookshelf plugin to a version beyond 2.0.4, which contains patches for this vulnerability.
- Monitor system logs for any unusual activities or potential exploitation attempts.
Long-Term Security Practices
- Regularly review and audit plugins and extensions for security vulnerabilities.
- Implement input sanitization and output encoding practices to prevent XSS and other injection attacks.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates released by plugin vendors and apply patches promptly to ensure that your WordPress site remains secure.