CVE-2021-24995 : What You Need to Know

A detailed overview of the HTML5 Responsive FAQ WordPress plugin vulnerability affecting versions up to 2.8.5, allowing for Admin+ Stored Cross-Site Scripting.

Understanding CVE-2021-24995

This section delves into the impact, technical details, and mitigation strategies related to CVE-2021-24995.

What is CVE-2021-24995?

The HTML5 Responsive FAQ WordPress plugin through version 2.8.5 fails to properly sanitize and escape certain settings, creating a security loophole for high privilege users to execute Cross-Site Scripting attacks even when unfiltered_html is restricted.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24995

The vulnerability in the plugin enables attackers with elevated permissions to inject malicious scripts into web pages, potentially compromising user data and system integrity.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24995

Explore the specifics of the vulnerability including its description, affected systems and versions, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The flaw in HTML5 Responsive FAQ plugin allows high privilege users to conduct Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks despite restrictions on unfiltered_html, posing a serious security risk.

Affected Systems and Versions

Versions up to 2.8.5 of the plugin are impacted, leaving websites using these versions susceptible to unauthorized script injections.

Exploitation Mechanism

By exploiting the improper handling of settings within the plugin, attackers can insert malicious scripts via the administrative interface, leading to potential XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

Learn about the immediate steps to secure systems, best security practices, and the importance of regular patching and updates.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the HTML5 Responsive FAQ plugin to the latest patched version, enforcing strict input validation, and monitoring for any suspicious activities.

Long-Term Security Practices

Incorporate security measures like input validation, least privilege access, and periodic security audits to fortify the website against future vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Frequent updates and security patches are imperative to plug security holes and prevent exploitation, ensuring the overall safety and integrity of the WordPress website.