The ElementsKit PRO plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Server-Side Request Forgery in versions up to, and including, 3.6.2 via the 'render_raw' function. This vulnerability allows authenticated attackers, with contributor-level permissions and above, to make web requests to arbitrary locations originating from the web application and can be used to query and modify information from internal services. Given the potential access to internal systems, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 8.5, indicating a high severity level. The combination of a network attack vector, low attack complexity, and the requirement for low privileges makes exploitation feasible for a wide range of attackers. Therefore, organizations should prioritize patching immediately.
Organizations using affected versions of the ElementsKit PRO plugin should take immediate action to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability. The exploitation status indicates that no public exploit is confirmed at this time, but the potential for exploitation is high given the nature of the vulnerability.
In light of these concerns, it is crucial for security teams to remain vigilant and ensure that their WordPress installations are updated to versions that address this vulnerability.
Vulnerability Details
The ElementsKit PRO plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Server-Side Request Forgery in versions up to, and including, 3.6.2 via the 'render_raw' function. This can allow authenticated attackers, with contributor-level permissions and above, to make web requests to arbitrary locations originating from the web application and can be used to query and modify information from internal services. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-918: Server-Side Request Forgery.
The CVSS score, depending on the source, varies: the security@wordfence.com rates it at a score of 8.5 (high severity), while the NVD classifies it as critical with a CVSS score of 9.6. The discrepancy arises due to differing assessments of the impacts on confidentiality and integrity.
The plugin is affected in versions up to 3.6.2, with the latest versions providing the necessary patches to remediate this vulnerability.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability is improper validation of user inputs when processing requests via the 'render_raw' function. Attackers can exploit this by crafting requests that leverage the plugin's functionality to access internal services, which may contain sensitive information or allow further manipulation of the system.
The attack vector is classified as network-based, which means that attackers can exploit this vulnerability remotely without any physical access to the server. The attack complexity is low, as it does not require sophisticated techniques, and the privileges required to exploit this vulnerability are also low, as only contributor-level permissions are necessary.
User interaction is not required to exploit this vulnerability, making it even more dangerous. The potential impacts of a successful exploitation include high confidentiality impact, as sensitive information can be accessed, and low integrity impact, as the vulnerability does not directly compromise data integrity. Availability impact is classified as none.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world risk associated with this vulnerability is significant. Organizations utilizing the ElementsKit PRO plugin may find themselves exposed to unauthorized access and data leakage, especially if sensitive internal services are reachable. Attackers leveraging this vulnerability can pivot within an organization's network, potentially leading to further exploits.
The blast radius of this vulnerability can be extensive, especially for organizations that have not implemented strict network segmentation. Given the relatively low barriers to exploitation, organizations should address this vulnerability as a high priority to avoid potential data breaches or unauthorized data modifications.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. The urgent need for remediation is underscored by the high CVSS score and the ease of exploitation, which could lead to significant financial and reputational damage.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The ElementsKit PRO plugin is vulnerable in all versions up to and including 3.6.2. Organizations should ensure they upgrade to version 3.6.3 or later to mitigate this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations should update the ElementsKit PRO plugin to version 3.6.3 or later to remediate this vulnerability. If a patch is not immediately available, organizations can implement network segmentation to limit access to internal services, reducing the risk of exploitation. Continuous monitoring for unusual behavior and access patterns should also be established, enabling early detection of potential exploitation.
For further guidance on secure coding practices and vulnerability management, organizations can refer to the secure coding practices guide for best practices.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this vulnerability, organizations should monitor web server logs for unusual request patterns originating from authenticated users. Additionally, behavioral anomalies in user access to internal services may indicate attempts to exploit this vulnerability.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
This vulnerability highlights the importance of thorough input validation and robust access controls in web applications. The trend towards increasing vulnerabilities in web applications necessitates a proactive approach to security, including regular updates and vulnerability assessments.
Organizations can strengthen their defenses by adopting a comprehensive penetration testing program that identifies vulnerabilities before they can be exploited.
For organizations looking to enhance their security posture, engaging in application security assessments can provide critical insights into potential weaknesses.
Additionally, organizations should stay informed on emerging threats by following up-to-date resources and engaging in regular security training for their teams.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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