CVE-2021-24830 : What You Need to Know

The Advanced Access Manager WordPress plugin before version 6.8.0 is vulnerable to stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks. This CVE allows high privilege users to execute malicious scripts, even when unfiltered_html capability is restricted.

Understanding CVE-2021-24830

This section provides insights into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to the CVE-2021-24830 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-24830?

The CVE-2021-24830 vulnerability exists in the Advanced Access Manager WordPress plugin versions prior to 6.8.0. It arises from a lack of proper output escaping in some settings, enabling privileged users to conduct Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24830

The vulnerability permits authenticated users with elevated privileges to inject and execute malicious scripts, compromising the security and integrity of the affected WordPress sites.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24830

This section outlines specific technical information about the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from the plugin's failure to sanitize certain settings before displaying them, enabling attackers to inject and execute arbitrary scripts within the context of the website.

Affected Systems and Versions

Advanced Access Manager versions earlier than 6.8.0 are impacted by this vulnerability. Users with versions below this are advised to upgrade to a secure release.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with administrative privileges can exploit this vulnerability by inserting malicious scripts into vulnerable settings, leading to the execution of unauthorized actions on the affected sites.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the CVE-2021-24830 vulnerability, it is crucial to follow immediate mitigation steps and adopt long-term security measures.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the Advanced Access Manager plugin to version 6.8.0 or later to remediate the vulnerability. It is recommended to restrict access to privileged accounts and monitor for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust input validation and output escaping mechanisms in plugins to prevent Cross-Site Scripting vulnerabilities. Regular security audits and employee training on secure coding practices can enhance the overall security posture.

Patching and Updates

Maintain a proactive approach to applying security patches and updates for plugins and software solutions. Stay informed about security advisories and promptly install recommended patches to protect against known vulnerabilities.