CVE-2021-24872 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

The Get Custom Field Values WordPress plugin before version 4.0 allows users with a role as low as Contributor to access other posts metadata without validating their permissions, potentially leading to unauthorized access.

Understanding CVE-2021-24872

This CVE identifies a vulnerability in the Get Custom Field Values plugin that enables contributors to view admin posts metadata without proper authorization checks.

What is CVE-2021-24872?

The CVE-2021-24872 vulnerability in the Get Custom Field Values plugin allows users with limited permissions to access metadata of other posts, including potentially sensitive information. This issue arises from insufficient authorization validation.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24872

The impact of CVE-2021-24872 is significant as it could result in unauthorized access to confidential post metadata by users with lower privilege levels, such as Contributors. This breach of access control can compromise the security and confidentiality of the affected WordPress sites.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24872

This section provides specific technical insights into the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Get Custom Field Values plugin allows Contributors and users with similar low roles to access metadata of other posts in WordPress without proper authorization, leading to a security loophole.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected version of the plugin is less than 4.0, where contributors can exploit the vulnerability to access admin posts metadata.

Exploitation Mechanism

The exploitation of CVE-2021-24872 involves leveraging the lack of permission validation within the Get Custom Field Values plugin, enabling unauthorized users to access sensitive post metadata.

Mitigation and Prevention

It is crucial to take immediate steps to mitigate the risks posed by CVE-2021-24872 and prevent unauthorized access.

Immediate Steps to Take

WordPress site owners should update the Get Custom Field Values plugin to version 4.0 or above to patch the vulnerability and prevent Contributors from accessing unauthorized post metadata.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement strong access control mechanisms, regularly audit user permissions, and monitor for any suspicious activities to enhance the overall security posture of WordPress sites.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates and patches released by plugin developers, apply them promptly to ensure that known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-24872 are addressed and mitigated effectively.