CVE-2021-24458 : Security Advisory and Response

This article provides details about CVE-2021-24458, focusing on a SQL injection vulnerability in the Popup box WordPress plugin before version 2.3.4.

Understanding CVE-2021-24458

This CVE identifier highlights a security flaw in the Popup box WordPress plugin that could lead to SQL injection attacks, affecting versions prior to 2.3.4.

What is CVE-2021-24458?

The vulnerability arises from the lack of whitelist validation on the orderby parameter in certain functions of the Popup box plugin, potentially enabling SQL injection attacks in the plugin's admin dashboard.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24458

Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow authenticated attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands within the plugin's database, potentially leading to data leakage or manipulation.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24458

This section delves into the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-24458.

Vulnerability Description

The issue stems from the improper handling of the orderby parameter in the get_ays_popupboxes() and get_popup_categories() functions, which can be exploited to inject malicious SQL queries.

Affected Systems and Versions

The vulnerability affects versions of the Popup box plugin prior to 2.3.4, making websites using these versions susceptible to SQL injection attacks.

Exploitation Mechanism

By manipulating the orderby parameter in the affected plugin functions, authenticated attackers can insert SQL commands to perform unauthorized actions within the plugin's database.

Mitigation and Prevention

To protect systems from the risks associated with CVE-2021-24458, immediate actions and long-term security measures are essential.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to update the Popup box plugin to version 2.3.4 or newer to mitigate the SQL injection vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for any suspicious activities can help detect potential exploitation.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, such as input validation and parameterized queries, can help prevent similar vulnerabilities in future plugin releases. Regular security audits and penetration testing are recommended to identify and address potential security gaps.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin vendor is crucial for maintaining a secure WordPress environment. Promptly applying patches for known vulnerabilities like CVE-2021-24458 can help reduce the risk of exploitation.