CVE-2021-25017 : Vulnerability Insights and Analysis

This article provides detailed information about CVE-2021-25017, focusing on a Reflected Cross-Site Scripting vulnerability found in the Tutor LMS WordPress plugin before version 1.9.12.

Understanding CVE-2021-25017

CVE-2021-25017 is a security vulnerability in the Tutor LMS WordPress plugin that exposes users to Reflected Cross-Site Scripting attacks due to improper handling of the search parameter.

What is CVE-2021-25017?

The Tutor LMS WordPress plugin before version 1.9.12 fails to properly escape the search parameter before outputting it back in an attribute on an admin page, allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of a user's browser.

The Impact of CVE-2021-25017

This vulnerability can be exploited by attackers to trick users into executing unintended actions on the affected WordPress site, potentially leading to unauthorized access, data theft, and other malicious activities.

Technical Details of CVE-2021-25017

The technical details of CVE-2021-25017 include:

Vulnerability Description

The vulnerability arises from the plugin's failure to sanitize user-controlled input, specifically the search parameter, before returning it in an attribute on an admin page, enabling attackers to inject and execute malicious scripts.

Affected Systems and Versions

The affected product is the Tutor LMS - eLearning and online course solution plugin, versions less than 1.9.12.

Exploitation Mechanism

Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting a malicious link containing the payload and tricking a user with permissions to click on the link, thereby executing the malicious script in the user's context.

Mitigation and Prevention

Protect your WordPress site from CVE-2021-25017 with the following measures:

Immediate Steps to Take

Update the Tutor LMS plugin to version 1.9.12 or later to patch the vulnerability and prevent exploitation.
Educate users with admin permissions about the risks of clicking on suspicious links to mitigate the threat of XSS attacks.

Long-Term Security Practices

Regularly update plugins, themes, and WordPress core to ensure that known vulnerabilities are addressed promptly.
Implement web application firewalls (WAF) and security plugins to add an extra layer of defense against XSS attacks.

Patching and Updates

Stay informed about security updates released by plugin developers and apply patches promptly to protect your WordPress site from known vulnerabilities.