CVE-2021-24553 : Security Advisory and Response

Timeline Calendar WordPress plugin version 1.2 and below is vulnerable to an authenticated SQL injection issue due to unsanitized user input. Exploiting this vulnerability can allow attackers to manipulate the database and potentially take control of the affected WordPress site.

Understanding CVE-2021-24553

This CVE pertains to a specific vulnerability in the Timeline Calendar WordPress plugin that can be exploited to perform SQL injection attacks.

What is CVE-2021-24553?

The Timeline Calendar WordPress plugin, up to version 1.2, fails to properly sanitize, validate, or escape user input used in SQL statements when editing events. This oversight allows authenticated users to carry out SQL injection attacks, compromising the integrity and security of the website's database.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24553

The presence of an authenticated SQL injection vulnerability in the Timeline Calendar plugin poses a significant risk to affected WordPress sites. Attackers with admin or higher user privileges can exploit this flaw to execute malicious SQL queries, potentially leading to data theft, modification, or even complete site takeover.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24553

The technical aspects of CVE-2021-24553 provide insights into the vulnerability's description, affected systems, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the plugin's failure to properly handle user-controlled input, leading to SQL injection risks. Attackers can inject malicious SQL code via the edit GET parameter to manipulate the database queries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Timeline Calendar versions up to and including 1.2 are impacted by this vulnerability. Sites using these versions are at risk of exploitation by authenticated attackers.

Exploitation Mechanism

To exploit CVE-2021-24553, an authenticated user can inject SQL commands via the edit parameter, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the WordPress site's database and executing malicious actions.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems against CVE-2021-24553 involves implementing immediate measures and adopting long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update Timeline Calendar: Ensure the plugin is updated to the latest secure version to mitigate the SQL injection risk.
Monitor User Input: Validate and sanitize user inputs to prevent SQL injection attacks.
Restrict Admin Access: Limit admin privileges to reduce the impact of potential attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular Audits: Conduct periodic security audits to identify and address vulnerabilities proactively.
Security Training: Educate users on secure coding practices and the risks of SQL injection.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for Timeline Calendar and apply patches promptly to address newly discovered vulnerabilities.