Description

CVE-2024-12268 affects the Responsive Blocks – WordPress Gutenberg Blocks plugin, exposing it to a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping within the 'responsive-block-editor-addons/portfolio' block. The vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with Contributor-level access or higher to inject malicious JavaScript into WordPress pages. This JavaScript executes whenever a user visits the injected page, potentially leading to account compromise, data theft, or other malicious actions.

The SOCRadar Vulnerability Risk Score (SVRS) for this CVE is 46, indicating a moderate vulnerability requiring attention and prompt action. While the CVSS score of 6.4 suggests a medium severity, the SVRS provides a more nuanced understanding of the risk based on factors beyond just technical severity.

Key Insights

• Impact: Successful exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to steal sensitive data, manipulate website content, or even redirect users to malicious websites.
• Attacker Profile: The vulnerability can be exploited by authenticated attackers with at least Contributor-level access. This means individuals with administrative privileges within the WordPress environment are at risk.
• Exploitation: As the vulnerability involves stored XSS, attackers can leave their malicious scripts permanently embedded within the affected WordPress pages. This means the attack can persist even after the initial injection, potentially impacting a large number of users over time.
• Wide Applicability: The Responsive Blocks plugin is popular, and its widespread adoption increases the potential impact of this vulnerability.

Mitigation Strategies

1. Plugin Update: Immediately update the Responsive Blocks – WordPress Gutenberg Blocks plugin to version 1.9.8 or higher. This update includes critical security patches that address the vulnerability.
2. Website Security Audit: Conduct a thorough security audit of the affected WordPress website to identify any potential signs of compromise. This audit should include scanning for malicious scripts and checking for any unauthorized access attempts.
3. User Training: Educate website administrators and content contributors about the importance of security best practices, such as avoiding suspicious links, keeping software updated, and using strong passwords.
4. Web Application Firewall (WAF): Implement a WAF to help protect against XSS attacks by filtering out malicious scripts before they can reach the WordPress website.

Additional Information

If you have any further questions about CVE-2024-12268 or require additional information, please use the "Ask to Analyst" feature, contact SOCRadar directly, or open a support ticket for assistance.