CVE-2021-24918 : Security Advisory and Response

A detailed overview of CVE-2021-24918, a vulnerability in the Smash Balloon Social Post Feed WordPress plugin before version 4.0.1 allowing for arbitrary plugin settings update to stored XSS.

Understanding CVE-2021-24918

This section provides insights into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2021-24918.

What is CVE-2021-24918?

The Smash Balloon Social Post Feed WordPress plugin before version 4.0.1 lacked privilege or nonce validation, enabling any logged-in user on a vulnerable site to modify settings and inject malicious JavaScript into posts and pages.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24918

The vulnerability allowed attackers to execute stored cross-site scripting (XSS) attacks, compromising the integrity of the affected WordPress sites.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24918

Explore the specific technical aspects of the CVE-2021-24918 vulnerability below.

Vulnerability Description

The absence of proper privilege and nonce validation in version < 4.0.1 of the Smash Balloon Social Post Feed plugin facilitated unauthorized modification of plugin settings and insertion of rogue JavaScript.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability impacted Smash Balloon Social Post Feed plugin versions prior to 4.0.1, potentially affecting WordPress sites powered by the outdated plugin.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the lack of input validation, threat actors could manipulate plugin settings through XSS attacks, allowing them to inject malicious scripts into posts and pages.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn how to protect your WordPress site from CVE-2021-24918 and similar vulnerabilities.

Immediate Steps to Take

WordPress site administrators are advised to update the Smash Balloon Social Post Feed plugin to version 4.0.1 or newer to remediate the vulnerability and prevent unauthorized settings modifications.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust security measures such as regular vulnerability assessments, user access controls, and web application firewalls to enhance the overall security posture of WordPress sites.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates released by plugin developers and promptly apply patches to address known vulnerabilities and fortify the security of WordPress installations.