CVE-2021-4351 Explained : Impact and Mitigation

A security vulnerability has been identified in the Frontend File Manager Plugin for WordPress that could allow unauthenticated attackers to manipulate post meta data. Find out more about CVE-2021-4351, its impact, technical details, and mitigation steps.

Understanding CVE-2021-4351

This section delves into the details of CVE-2021-4351, outlining the vulnerability and its implications.

What is CVE-2021-4351?

The Frontend File Manager plugin for WordPress is susceptible to Unauthenticated Post Meta Change in versions up to 18.2 due to missing authentication protections and capability checks. This flaw enables unauthorized modification of post and page meta data.

The Impact of CVE-2021-4351

The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to alter specific post and page meta data, posing a risk of unauthorized content modification on affected WordPress sites.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-4351

Explore the technical aspects of CVE-2021-4351, including the vulnerability description, affected systems, and exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The Frontend File Manager Plugin lacks sufficient authentication controls and sanitization on the wpfm_file_meta_update AJAX action, enabling unauthorized users to change post meta data.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the Frontend File Manager Plugin for WordPress versions up to and including 18.2, exposing websites with the plugin installed to the risk of unauthenticated post meta manipulation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by sending unauthorized requests to the wpfm_file_meta_update AJAX action, allowing them to modify post and page meta data without proper authentication.

Mitigation and Prevention

Discover the immediate steps and long-term security practices to safeguard WordPress websites from CVE-2021-4351.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the Frontend File Manager Plugin to version 18.3 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for unauthorized post meta changes is recommended.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement robust authentication mechanisms, access controls, and input validation to prevent unauthorized access and manipulation of post meta data on WordPress sites.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for the Frontend File Manager Plugin to address known vulnerabilities and enhance website security.