CVE-2021-24503 : Security Advisory and Response
Discover how the CVE-2021-24503 vulnerability in Popular Brand SVG Icons - Simple Icons plugin allows attackers to execute XSS attacks. Learn mitigation steps and update recommendations.
Popular Brand SVG Icons - Simple Icons WordPress plugin before version 2.7.8 is prone to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, allowing users with low privileges to inject malicious code into shortcode parameters.
Understanding CVE-2021-24503
This CVE concerns the Popular Brand Icons - Simple Icons WordPress plugin, specifically versions prior to 2.7.8, which fail to properly validate certain shortcode parameters, enabling unauthorized users to execute XSS attacks.
What is CVE-2021-24503?
The vulnerability in Popular Brand SVG Icons - Simple Icons plugin allows contributors to insert Cross-Site Scripting payloads into shortcode parameters like color, size, or class. Although admin approval is needed for XSS to trigger in posts, higher privilege roles like editor can exploit it without constraints.
The Impact of CVE-2021-24503
Unauthorized users with contributor access or above can leverage this vulnerability to execute malicious XSS attacks, compromising the security and integrity of affected websites.
Technical Details of CVE-2021-24503
The following details outline the specific technical aspects of CVE-2021-24503.
Vulnerability Description
Popular Brand Icons - Simple Icons before 2.7.8 lacks proper sanitation of shortcode parameters, allowing malicious scripts to be injected.
Affected Systems and Versions
Versions of the plugin that are less than 2.7.8 are impacted, leaving websites using these versions vulnerable to exploitation.
Exploitation Mechanism
By abusing the lack of parameter validation, attackers can craft payloads within shortcode attributes to execute XSS attacks on targeted websites.
Mitigation and Prevention
To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24503, immediate actions and long-term security practices are advised.
Immediate Steps to Take
Update the Popular Brand Icons - Simple Icons plugin to version 2.7.8 or newer to eliminate the vulnerability and protect your website from potential XSS attacks.
Long-Term Security Practices
Regularly update all plugins and themes, enforce the principle of least privilege for user roles, and educate users on the importance of safe coding practices to prevent XSS vulnerabilities.
Patching and Updates
Stay informed about security updates for plugins and themes, promptly applying patches released by developers to ensure ongoing protection against known vulnerabilities.