The Cyber Security Agency of Singapore (SingCERT) has issued a critical alert regarding vulnerabilities in several WordPress plugins. These vulnerabilities are considered severe, with potential risks that could allow unauthorized access, arbitrary file uploads, SQL injection, and remote code execution. Users of affected plugins are strongly advised to take immediate action to mitigate these threats by updating to the latest versions. SingCERT has identified nine critical vulnerabilities across various popular plugins, each posing a unique threat to website security.
The identified vulnerabilities include those in plugins such as WordPress Copymatic AI Content Writer & Generator, Pie Register Social Sites Login, and Hash Form Drag & Drop Form Builder. For instance, the Copymatic plugin’s flaw (CVE-2024-31351) allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files, potentially compromising the website’s integrity, and is rated a maximum CVSSv3.1 score of 10 out of 10. Similarly, the Pie Register plugin’s vulnerability (CVE-2024-4544) could enable authentication bypass, risking unauthorized account access, with a CVSSv3.1 score of 9.8. These examples highlight the critical nature of these vulnerabilities and the importance of prompt action.
Other significant vulnerabilities include the SQL injection flaw in the Country State City Dropdown CF7 Plugin (CVE-2024-3495) and the privilege escalation vulnerability in the UserPro Plugin (CVE-2024-35700). These vulnerabilities expose sensitive data and could lead to full control of the affected website by attackers. The severity of these issues, each with a CVSSv3.1 score of 9.8 or higher, underscores the necessity for immediate updates and enhanced security measures.
SingCERT advises users and administrators to update their plugins to the latest versions without delay. Mitigation strategies include referring to the plugin documentation for specific update instructions and employing interim security measures like virtual patching. Maintaining the security of WordPress websites requires vigilance and proactive measures, including regular updates and continuous monitoring for new vulnerabilities. By staying informed and acting promptly on security alerts, website owners can protect their assets and prevent potential exploitation by malicious actors.
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