CVE-2021-24654 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

The User Registration WordPress plugin before version 2.0.2 is affected by a Low Privilege Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability, allowing authenticated users to execute XSS attacks.

Understanding CVE-2021-24654

This CVE identifies a security flaw in the User Registration WordPress plugin, potentially enabling Cross-Site Scripting attacks by authenticated users.

What is CVE-2021-24654?

The CVE-2021-24654 vulnerability in the User Registration WordPress plugin arises from insufficient sanitization of the user_registration_profile_pic_url parameter, allowing authenticated users, like subscribers, to carry out Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24654

The impact of this vulnerability is quite significant as it allows attackers with low privileges to execute malicious scripts in the context of other users, potentially leading to unauthorized actions and data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24654

The technical details of CVE-2021-24654 involve understanding the vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, as well as the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The User Registration WordPress plugin prior to version 2.0.2 fails to adequately sanitize the user_registration_profile_pic_url value when submitted via the user_registration_update_profile_details AJAX action, facilitating Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected system is the User Registration WordPress plugin with versions before 2.0.2, allowing any authenticated user, particularly subscribers, to exploit this vulnerability.

Exploitation Mechanism

By submitting a crafted profile picture URL directly through the user_registration_update_profile_details action, authenticated users can inject malicious scripts into their profiles, leading to Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2021-24654, it is crucial to implement immediate steps, long-term security practices, and timely patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the User Registration WordPress plugin to version 2.0.2 or newer, actively monitor user profiles for suspicious content, and educate users on safe profile practices.

Long-Term Security Practices

In the long term, organizations should conduct regular security audits, employ security plugins, provide security training to staff, and stay informed about CVEs and security best practices.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for plugin updates, apply patches promptly, and maintain a proactive approach to security to prevent future vulnerabilities and attacks.