CVE-2021-4374 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies
Learn about CVE-2021-4374, a critical vulnerability in WordPress Automatic Plugin up to version 3.53.2 allowing unauthenticated attackers to compromise site settings. Find out how to mitigate and prevent exploitation.
WordPress Automatic Plugin for WordPress versions up to 3.53.2 is vulnerable to arbitrary options updates due to missing authorization and option validation. This can allow unauthenticated attackers to compromise the site.
Understanding CVE-2021-4374
This section provides insights into the vulnerability and its impact, along with technical details and mitigation strategies.
What is CVE-2021-4374?
The WordPress Automatic Plugin for WordPress is susceptible to arbitrary options updates in versions up to and including 3.53.2. Attackers can exploit missing authorization and option validation in the process_form.php file to compromise vulnerable sites.
The Impact of CVE-2021-4374
The vulnerability allows unauthenticated attackers to manipulate site settings, potentially leading to a complete compromise of the affected WordPress sites.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-4374
Below are specific technical details related to the CVE-2021-4374 vulnerability.
Vulnerability Description
The vulnerability arises from missing authorization and option validation in the process_form.php file, enabling attackers to make arbitrary updates to site settings.
Affected Systems and Versions
WordPress Automatic Plugin versions up to and including 3.53.2 are impacted by this vulnerability.
Exploitation Mechanism
Unauthenticated attackers can exploit the lack of proper authorization and validation to manipulate site settings, potentially compromising the entire WordPress site.
Mitigation and Prevention
Here are the steps to mitigate the CVE-2021-4374 vulnerability and prevent exploitation.
Immediate Steps to Take
Users should update the WordPress Automatic Plugin to version 3.53.3 or newer. Additionally, it is crucial to monitor and review site settings for any unauthorized changes.
Long-Term Security Practices
To enhance security, site owners should regularly update plugins, employ strong authentication mechanisms, and implement access controls to prevent unauthorized modifications.
Patching and Updates
Regularly check for plugin updates and apply them promptly to ensure that known vulnerabilities are patched and security measures are up to date.