CVE-2021-4358 : Security Advisory and Response

A Stored Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability was found in the WP DSGVO Tools (GDPR) plugin for WordPress, allowing unauthenticated attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

Understanding CVE-2021-4358

This section will provide insight into the nature and impact of the CVE-2021-4358 vulnerability.

What is CVE-2021-4358?

The WP DSGVO Tools (GDPR) plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via an unknown parameter in versions up to, and including, 3.1.23. Attackers can inject arbitrary web scripts that execute when a user accesses the injected page.

The Impact of CVE-2021-4358

The vulnerability poses a high risk as it allows unauthenticated attackers to execute malicious scripts within the context of a user's browser session, potentially leading to unauthorized actions or data theft.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-4358

In this section, we will explore the specifics of the vulnerability, including affected systems and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping in the plugin, enabling attackers to insert malicious scripts undetected.

Affected Systems and Versions

The WP DSGVO Tools (GDPR) plugin versions up to 3.1.23 are impacted by this vulnerability, while version 3.1.24 and above are deemed unaffected.

Exploitation Mechanism

Unauthenticated attackers can exploit this vulnerability by injecting crafted scripts through an undisclosed parameter, which are executed within the context of a user's browsing session.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section outlines the steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-4358 and prevent future occurrences.

Immediate Steps to Take

Site administrators are advised to update the WP DSGVO Tools plugin to version 3.1.24 or newer to address this vulnerability. Additionally, implementing input validation and output escaping practices can further reduce the risk of XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regular security audits, monitoring for suspicious activities, and educating users on safe browsing practices can enhance the overall security posture of WordPress sites.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin developer and promptly apply them to safeguard your website against potential vulnerabilities.