CVE-2021-24552 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

Simple Events Calendar WordPress plugin version 1.4.0 and below is vulnerable to an authenticated SQL injection issue due to improper handling of the event_id POST parameter. An attacker can exploit this to execute malicious SQL queries.

Understanding CVE-2021-24552

This CVE, registered as CVE-2021-24552, affects Simple Events Calendar plugin versions up to 1.4.0 and allows an authenticated user to perform SQL injection attacks.

What is CVE-2021-24552?

The Simple Events Calendar WordPress plugin, up to version 1.4.0, fails to properly sanitize the event_id POST parameter before executing SQL queries to delete events. This oversight opens the plugin to SQL injection attacks, enabling an authenticated user to manipulate the SQL statements.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24552

The SQL injection vulnerability in Simple Events Calendar plugin can be exploited by an admin or higher privileged user. Attackers can inject malicious SQL queries, potentially extracting, modifying, or deleting sensitive data within the WordPress database.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24552

This section delves into the technical aspects of the CVE, providing insights into the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation methods.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of proper sanitization of the event_id POST parameter, allowing attackers to insert malicious SQL queries into the database interactions initiated by the plugin.

Affected Systems and Versions

Simple Events Calendar plugin versions up to and including 1.4.0 are affected by this CVE. Users with these versions are at risk of exploitation if the plugin is not promptly updated.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the SQL injection vulnerability, an authenticated user can insert SQL queries via the event_id parameter, enabling them to manipulate the database and potentially perform unauthorized actions.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your system from the risks associated with CVE-2021-24552, it is crucial to implement immediate mitigation measures and adopt long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Upgrade Simple Events Calendar plugin to the latest patched version to mitigate the SQL injection vulnerability.
Monitor database activities for any suspicious queries or unauthorized changes.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update all plugins and themes to the latest versions to patch known vulnerabilities.
Educate users on secure coding practices and the importance of input validation to prevent future SQL injection attacks.

Patching and Updates

Developers of Simple Events Calendar should release a security patch that addresses the SQL injection flaw. Users must promptly update the plugin to the patched version to eliminate the vulnerability and enhance the security posture of their WordPress sites.