CVE-2021-24580 : What You Need to Know

The Side Menu Lite WordPress Plugin version 2.2.6 and below is affected by an Authenticated SQL Injection vulnerability due to unsanitized user input in SQL statements.

Understanding CVE-2021-24580

This CVE describes a security issue in the Side Menu Lite WordPress Plugin that could allow an authenticated attacker to execute unauthorized SQL queries.

What is CVE-2021-24580?

The Side Menu Lite WordPress Plugin before version 2.2.6 fails to properly sanitize user input from the List page in the admin dashboard before using it in SQL statements, leading to an SQL Injection vulnerability.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24580

Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow an authenticated attacker to manipulate the database, extract sensitive information, modify data, or perform other unauthorized actions through SQL injection attacks.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24580

This section provides detailed technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the lack of input sanitization in user data provided on the List page of the admin dashboard, allowing attackers to inject malicious SQL queries.

Affected Systems and Versions

Side Menu Lite WordPress Plugin versions prior to 2.2.6 are affected by this SQL Injection vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By crafting malicious input on the List page within the WordPress admin dashboard, an authenticated attacker can execute arbitrary SQL queries, compromising the integrity and confidentiality of the database.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-24580 and enhance security measures, follow these mitigation strategies.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Side Menu Lite Plugin to version 2.2.6 or later to mitigate the SQL Injection vulnerability.
Monitor database activity for any suspicious behavior or unauthorized access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict input validation and sanitization practices for all user inputs in web applications.
Regularly audit and review code to identify and address potential security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin vendor to protect your WordPress website from known vulnerabilities.