Description
The WP JobHunt plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to authentication bypass in all versions up to, and including, 7.1. This is due to the plugin not properly verifying a user's identity prior to authenticating them through the cs_parse_request() function. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to to log in to any user's account, including administrators.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2024-54063
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability identified in the WP JobHunt plugin for WordPress allows for authentication bypass, enabling unauthenticated attackers to log in to any user's account, including those with administrative privileges. This vulnerability is present in all versions up to and including 7.1.
Severity Evaluation:
- Base Score: 9.8 (Critical)
- Base Score Version: CVSS:3.1
- Base Score Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
The high base score indicates a critical vulnerability due to the ease of exploitation (low complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction needed) and the severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Network-Based Attack (AV:N): The vulnerability can be exploited remotely over the network.
- Low Complexity (AC:L): The attack does not require specialized conditions or complex steps.
- No Privileges Required (PR:N): The attacker does not need any prior access or privileges.
- No User Interaction (UI:N): The attack can be executed without any interaction from the user.
Exploitation Methods:
- Authentication Bypass: An attacker can exploit the vulnerability in the
cs_parse_request()function to bypass the authentication mechanism. - Account Takeover: By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can log in to any user's account, including those with administrative privileges, leading to full control over the WordPress site.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Systems:
- WordPress sites using the WP JobHunt plugin.
Affected Software Versions:
- All versions of the WP JobHunt plugin up to and including 7.1.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update the Plugin: Ensure that the WP JobHunt plugin is updated to a version that addresses this vulnerability.
- Disable the Plugin: If an update is not available, consider disabling the plugin until a patched version is released.
- Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Implement monitoring to detect any unauthorized access attempts or unusual login activities.
Long-Term Strategies:
- Regular Updates: Maintain a regular update schedule for all plugins and themes.
- Access Controls: Implement strong access controls and multi-factor authentication (MFA) for administrative accounts.
- Security Plugins: Use security plugins like Wordfence to detect and mitigate vulnerabilities.
- Backup and Recovery: Ensure regular backups and have a recovery plan in place.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to the European cybersecurity landscape, particularly for organizations and individuals using WordPress with the WP JobHunt plugin. The potential for unauthorized access to administrative accounts can lead to data breaches, website defacement, and other malicious activities. This underscores the importance of timely updates and robust security practices in the European digital ecosystem.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Function Affected:
cs_parse_request() - Issue: The function does not properly verify a user's identity before authenticating them, leading to authentication bypass.
Detection and Response:
- Log Analysis: Review login attempt logs for any unauthorized access.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implement IDS to detect and alert on suspicious login activities.
- Patch Management: Ensure that all plugins and themes are regularly updated and patched.
References:
Aliases:
- CVE-2024-11286
Assigner:
- Wordfence
EPSS:
- N/A
ENISA ID Product:
- []
ENISA ID Vendor:
- [{"id":"ff9e36ec-e052-3462-b83d-cb9fa6ff1dff","vendor":{"name":"n/a"}}]
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and implementing robust security measures, organizations can mitigate the risk of unauthorized access and ensure the integrity and security of their WordPress sites.