CVE-2021-24193 : Security Advisory and Response

A security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2021-24193, has been discovered in the Visitor Traffic Real Time Statistics WordPress plugin, versions prior to 2.12, allowing low privileged users to execute unauthorized actions.

Understanding CVE-2021-24193

This CVE pertains to an arbitrary plugin installation and activation issue that can be exploited by attackers with limited privileges.

What is CVE-2021-24193?

The vulnerability allows low privileged users to utilize a specific AJAX action in the Visitor Traffic Real Time Statistics plugin to install any plugin from the WordPress repository, including a specified version, and activate arbitrary plugins on the website. This could potentially lead to the installation of vulnerable plugins, introducing critical vulnerabilities like Remote Code Execution (RCE).

The Impact of CVE-2021-24193

The exploitation of this vulnerability could result in unauthorized plugin installations and activations by low privilege users, increasing the risk of compromised security and the potential for more severe vulnerabilities to be introduced.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24193

This section provides more insight into the specific technical aspects of the CVE.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from improper access controls, allowing unauthorized users to perform actions that should be restricted to privileged accounts only.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects versions of the Visitor Traffic Real Time Statistics WordPress plugin prior to version 2.12.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers with low privileges can exploit the 'cp_plugins_do_button_job_later_callback' AJAX action to facilitate the installation and activation of plugins, including malicious or vulnerable ones.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protecting systems from CVE-2021-24193 involves implementing immediate steps and adopting long-term security practices.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the Visitor Traffic Real Time Statistics plugin to version 2.12 or newer to mitigate the vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for unauthorized plugin installations is crucial.

Long-Term Security Practices

Enforcing strict access controls, regularly auditing plugin installations, and staying informed about security best practices are essential for maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

Patching and Updates

Regularly applying security patches, updates, and monitoring vulnerability disclosures is critical to addressing known security issues and strengthening overall system security.