CVE-2021-38312: High Vulnerability in Redux Gutenberg Template Library

A high-severity vulnerability has been discovered in the Redux Gutenberg Template Library & Framework plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions up to 4.2.11. This vulnerability allows lower-privileged users, such as contributors, to bypass authorization checks in the REST API endpoints. Consequently, attackers may leverage this flaw to install arbitrary plugins from the WordPress repository and edit any posts. Organizations using affected versions should prioritize patching to mitigate risks.

The vulnerability was published on September 2, 2021, and has a CVSS score of 7.1, indicating high severity. The risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive functionalities, potentially leading to further exploitation of the site. Given the nature of this vulnerability, organizations must take immediate action to secure their installations.

As of now, there is no public exploit confirmed for this vulnerability, and it is not listed in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, the situation can change, making it critical for organizations to remain vigilant and proactive in their security measures.

Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The underlying issue stems from an incorrect authorization check in the REST API, specifically in the `permissions_callback` implementation found in `redux-templates/classes/class-api.php`.

Vulnerability Details

This vulnerability allows lower-privileged users to execute actions that should be restricted to higher-level users. The CVSS score of 7.1 indicates a high risk, as it can lead to significant impacts on the integrity of the site. The affected product is the Redux Gutenberg Template Library, which is widely used in WordPress installations.

Technical Analysis

The root cause of this vulnerability is the misuse of authorization checks in the API endpoints. The `permissions_callback` function only checks for the `edit_posts` capability, which is granted to users with lower privileges. This flaw allows these users to perform administrative actions that could compromise site security.

Risk & Impact Analysis

Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access and potential manipulation of site content. The blast radius could affect numerous WordPress installations using this plugin, making it essential for security teams to assess their environments promptly. Organizations should address this vulnerability in their priority patch cycle to prevent exploitation.

Exploitation Status

Affected Versions

This vulnerability affects the Gutenberg Template Library & Redux Framework plugin versions up to 4.2.11. Organizations using these versions should take immediate action to patch or upgrade to secure versions.

Mitigation & Remediation

Organizations should apply the latest patches provided by the vendor. If a patch is unavailable, consider disabling the affected plugin until a fix is released. Regularly review and harden configurations to limit potential exploitation avenues. For more information on security testing, organizations may refer to penetration testing best practices.

Detection Guidance

To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, monitor logs for unusual API calls, especially those related to the `redux/v1/templates/` endpoints. Look for changes in post content or unexpected plugin installations as indicators of compromise.

AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight

The significance of this vulnerability highlights the ongoing challenges in maintaining secure coding practices, especially in widely used plugins. It represents a trend where insufficient authorization checks can lead to vulnerabilities that attackers may exploit. Security teams should ensure thorough code reviews and implement robust authorization checks in their development processes. For deeper insights, refer to the following articles: vulnerability management strategies and penetration testing methodologies to enhance security posture.