CVE-2022-1790 : What You Need to Know

This article provides details about CVE-2022-1790, a vulnerability in the New User Email Set Up WordPress plugin that allows attackers to perform arbitrary settings updates via CSRF attacks.

Understanding CVE-2022-1790

CVE-2022-1790 is a security flaw identified in the New User Email Set Up plugin version 0.5.2 and below, which lacks CSRF protection during setting updates.

What is CVE-2022-1790?

The New User Email Set Up plugin version 0.5.2 and earlier lack proper CSRF validation, enabling malicious actors to manipulate the settings of a logged-in admin user through CSRF attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2022-1790

This vulnerability poses a significant risk as it allows unauthorized users to modify the plugin settings of an admin user, potentially leading to unauthorized access or malfunctions on the website.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-1790

The following section outlines key technical aspects of CVE-2022-1790.

Vulnerability Description

The New User Email Set Up WordPress plugin versions 0.5.2 and below do not implement CSRF checks when updating settings, making it susceptible to CSRF attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects the New User Email Set Up plugin versions up to 0.5.2, exposing websites that use these versions to security risks.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by tricking an authenticated admin user into clicking a malicious link that triggers unauthorized changes to the plugin settings through CSRF manipulation.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address CVE-2022-1790 and enhance website security, users and administrators are advised to take the following precautions.

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the New User Email Set Up plugin to the latest version to patch the vulnerability.
Regularly monitor plugin updates and security advisories to stay informed about potential risks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement additional security measures like web application firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block CSRF attacks.
Educate users and admins about the risks of clicking on suspicious links and practicing safe browsing habits.

Patching and Updates

Developers should release timely patches for identified vulnerabilities and encourage users to apply updates promptly to protect their websites.