CVE-2021-24859 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24859 highlighting its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-24859

This CVE refers to the User Meta Shortcodes WordPress plugin version 0.5 vulnerability that allows unauthorized access to user metadata.

What is CVE-2021-24859?

The User Meta Shortcodes WordPress plugin up to version 0.5 enables users with low roles like contributor to access other users' metadata by specifying the user login, leading to data extrafiltration, including password hashes.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24859

This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized users to access sensitive user data, compromising the security and privacy of WordPress instances.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24859

Explore the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-24859 to understand its implications and potential risks.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in the User Meta Shortcodes plugin version <= 0.5 permits users with restricted roles to extract user metadata, such as password hashes, by exploiting a shortcode.

Affected Systems and Versions

Systems running the User Meta Shortcodes WordPress plugin version 0.5 and below are vulnerable to this issue, impacting the security of WordPress instances.

Exploitation Mechanism

By leveraging the shortcode provided by the plugin, unauthorized users, such as contributors, can input a user login parameter to access metadata, circumventing access controls.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24859 and safeguard your WordPress environment.

Immediate Steps to Take

Users are advised to update the User Meta Shortcodes plugin to the latest version, implement access controls, and monitor user activities to prevent unauthorized data access.

Long-Term Security Practices

Establish stringent user access policies, regularly audit plugins for security vulnerabilities, and educate users on best security practices to enhance WordPress security.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches released by the plugin vendor, apply updates promptly, and conduct regular security assessments to identify and address potential security gaps.