CVE-2021-24721 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24721, a security vulnerability in the Loco Translate WordPress plugin before version 2.5.4 that allows authenticated users to inject PHP code into web-accessible files.

Understanding CVE-2021-24721

This section will cover what CVE-2021-24721 entails, its impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies.

What is CVE-2021-24721?

The Loco Translate WordPress plugin before version 2.5.4 mishandles data inputs, allowing authenticated users to inject PHP code into files with a .php extension in web accessible locations.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24721

The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated 'translator' users, leading to unauthorized PHP code injection into web-accessible files, potentially compromising the website's security.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24721

This section provides more in-depth technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from how the plugin saves data inputs to files and allows them to be renamed with a .php extension, facilitating code injection by authorized users.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Loco Translate versions before 2.5.4, leaving websites using these versions at risk of PHP code injection.

Exploitation Mechanism

Authenticated users with 'translator' privileges can exploit the flaw by manipulating data inputs to inject malicious PHP code into files with a .php extension in web-accessible directories.

Mitigation and Prevention

To safeguard systems from CVE-2021-24721, immediate steps need to be taken along with long-term security practices and regular patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the Loco Translate plugin to version 2.5.4 or newer, revoke unnecessary user privileges, monitor file permissions, and review uploaded files for malicious content.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strict data validation processes, conduct regular security audits, utilize web application firewalls, and educate users on secure coding practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Regularly check for plugin updates, subscribe to security mailing lists, follow best practices for WordPress security, and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities.