CVE-2021-24525 : What You Need to Know

The Shortcodes Ultimate WordPress plugin before version 5.10.2 has a vulnerability that allows users with Contributor roles to execute stored Cross-site Scripting (XSS) attacks via shortcode attributes. This issue can be exploited by malicious contributors to inject malicious scripts into web pages.

Understanding CVE-2021-24525

This CVE refers to a security flaw in the Shortcodes Ultimate plugin for WordPress that enables contributors to conduct stored XSS attacks by manipulating shortcode attributes.

What is CVE-2021-24525?

The CVE-2021-24525 vulnerability in Shortcodes Ultimate plugin allows users with Contributor roles to perform stored XSS attacks through shortcode attributes, posing a security threat to WordPress websites.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24525

The impact of CVE-2021-24525 is significant as it enables contributors to inject malicious scripts into web pages, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and other security breaches.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24525

The technical details of CVE-2021-24525 include a vulnerability description, affected systems and versions, and the exploitation mechanism.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability in Shortcodes Ultimate plugin before version 5.10.2 allows contributors to execute stored XSS attacks via shortcode attributes, creating a security risk for WordPress websites.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected version is Shortcodes Ultimate plugin less than 5.10.2, targeting users with Contributor roles on WordPress sites.

Exploitation Mechanism

Malicious contributors can exploit this vulnerability by manipulating shortcode attributes, allowing them to inject malicious scripts into web pages and potentially compromise website security.

Mitigation and Prevention

To mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24525, immediate steps need to be taken and long-term security practices need to be implemented.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators should update the Shortcodes Ultimate plugin to version 5.10.2 or higher to patch the vulnerability and prevent contributors from executing stored XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implement a robust security policy, conduct regular security audits, monitor user permissions, and educate contributors about secure coding practices to enhance the overall security posture of WordPress websites.

Patching and Updates

Regularly apply security patches and updates to plugins, themes, and WordPress core to address known vulnerabilities and protect websites from potential security threats.