CVE-2022-4470 : What You Need to Know

Widgets for Google Reviews < 9.8 - Contributor+ Stored XSS vulnerability allows contributors to execute Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

Understanding CVE-2022-4470

This CVE pertains to a security issue in the Widgets for Google Reviews WordPress plugin version less than 9.8 that enables contributors to leverage Stored Cross-Site Scripting attacks.

What is CVE-2022-4470?

The Widgets for Google Reviews plugin version prior to 9.8 fails to properly validate and escape certain shortcode attributes, facilitating contributors to execute Stored XSS attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2022-4470

The vulnerability could be exploited by users with lower roles such as contributors to launch XSS attacks that may target higher privilege users like administrators of the affected WordPress site.

Technical Details of CVE-2022-4470

This section covers the specifics of the vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The issue arises from the plugin's inadequate validation and escaping of shortcode attributes, paving the way for stored XSS attacks by contributors.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects Widgets for Google Reviews plugin versions less than 9.8.

Exploitation Mechanism

Contributors can inject malicious scripts via the plugin's unvalidated shortcode attributes to carry out Stored XSS attacks.

Mitigation and Prevention

To address the CVE-2022-4470 vulnerability, follow the recommendations below.

Immediate Steps to Take

Ensure the Widgets for Google Reviews plugin is updated to version 9.8 or higher to mitigate the risk of Stored XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly monitor and update WordPress plugins to prevent security vulnerabilities.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security patches and updates for the Widgets for Google Reviews plugin to maintain a secure WordPress environment.