CVE-2021-24586 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability, CVE-2021-24586, has been identified in the Per page add to head WordPress plugin versions prior to 1.4.4. This vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate settings and potentially execute cross-site scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-24586

This CVE highlights a lack of CSRF validation in the plugin that could lead to stored XSS issues, impacting both the backend and frontend of the WordPress website.

What is CVE-2021-24586?

The Per page add to head plugin before version 1.4.4 lacks CSRF validation, enabling unauthorized users to modify settings and potentially execute stored XSS attacks, compromising the integrity of the website.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24586

This vulnerability poses a severe risk as attackers can exploit it to manipulate plugin settings and execute cross-site scripting attacks, compromising user data and site security.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24586

The following technical details outline the vulnerability, affected systems, and exploitation mechanisms.

Vulnerability Description

The Per page add to head WordPress plugin versions < 1.4.4 lack CSRF validation, enabling attackers to change settings and potentially trigger stored XSS attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects all instances of the Per page add to head plugin with versions prior to 1.4.4.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating plugin settings due to the absence of CSRF protection, leading to the execution of stored XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard your WordPress website from CVE-2021-24586, immediate steps and long-term security practices are necessary.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Per page add to head plugin to version 1.4.4 or higher to patch the vulnerability.
Regularly monitor your website for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement a web application firewall to prevent XSS attacks.
Educate administrators about secure coding practices to avoid similar vulnerabilities in the future.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates for all installed WordPress plugins and themes to address vulnerabilities promptly.