CVE-2021-24949 : Exploit Details and Defense Strategies

A SQL injection vulnerability, CVE-2021-24949, has been identified in The Plus Addons for Elementor - Pro WordPress plugin before version 5.0.7. This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute malicious SQL queries through the "WP Search Filters" widget, potentially leading to unauthorized access or data manipulation.

Understanding CVE-2021-24949

This section will provide insights into the nature and impact of the SQL injection vulnerability found in The Plus Addons for Elementor - Pro WordPress plugin.

What is CVE-2021-24949?

The security flaw labeled as CVE-2021-24949 involves the lack of proper sanitization and escaping of user input in the option parameter within SQL statements, making it susceptible to SQL injection attacks.

The Impact of CVE-2021-24949

Exploitation of this vulnerability could enable malicious actors to inject and execute arbitrary SQL queries, potentially gaining unauthorized access to the WordPress site or manipulating sensitive data stored within the database.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-24949

In this section, we will delve into specific technical details related to the CVE-2021-24949 vulnerability.

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises due to the plugin's failure to sanitize and escape user-controlled input, specifically in the option parameter used in SQL queries, creating a pathway for SQL injection attacks.

Affected Systems and Versions

The Plus Addons for Elementor - Pro WordPress plugin versions earlier than 5.0.7 are impacted by this vulnerability, leaving websites using these versions at risk of exploitation.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this flaw by injecting malicious SQL commands into the vulnerable parameter, thereby bypassing intended security measures and gaining unauthorized control over the WordPress site.

Mitigation and Prevention

This section will outline steps to mitigate the risks associated with CVE-2021-24949 and prevent potential exploitation.

Immediate Steps to Take

Website administrators are advised to immediately update the affected plugin to version 5.0.7 or higher to mitigate the SQL injection vulnerability. Additionally, monitoring for any signs of unauthorized access or suspicious activities is recommended.

Long-Term Security Practices

Implementing secure coding practices, such as input validation and parameterized queries, can help prevent SQL injection vulnerabilities in the long term. Regular security assessments and audits are also critical to maintaining a secure WordPress environment.

Patching and Updates

Staying informed about security patches and updates released by the plugin vendor and promptly applying them to the WordPress installation is crucial in preventing exploitation of known vulnerabilities.