Platform
wordpress
Component
social-warfare
Fixed in
3.5.3
CVE-2021-4434 is a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability discovered in the Social Warfare plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability allows attackers to execute arbitrary code on a vulnerable server, potentially leading to complete system compromise. It affects versions of the plugin up to and including 3.5.2, with a fix available in version 3.5.3.
The impact of CVE-2021-4434 is severe. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary code on the web server hosting the WordPress site. This could involve gaining full control of the server, stealing sensitive data (user credentials, database information, website files), installing malware, or using the compromised server as a launchpad for further attacks against other systems. The ability to execute code directly on the server significantly expands the attack surface and potential damage.
CVE-2021-4434 was publicly disclosed on January 17, 2024. While no active exploitation campaigns have been definitively confirmed, the ease of exploitation and the critical nature of the vulnerability make it a high-priority target. Public proof-of-concept exploits are likely to emerge, increasing the risk of widespread exploitation. The vulnerability is not currently listed on CISA KEV.
Exploit Status
EPSS
7.99% (92% percentile)
CVSS Vector
The primary mitigation for CVE-2021-4434 is to immediately upgrade the Social Warfare plugin to version 3.5.3 or later. If upgrading is not immediately feasible due to compatibility issues or breaking changes, consider temporarily disabling the plugin. Web application firewalls (WAFs) can be configured to block requests containing malicious payloads in the 'swpurl' parameter. Monitor web server access logs for suspicious activity related to the plugin, specifically requests containing unusual characters or patterns in the 'swpurl' parameter.
Update the Social Warfare plugin to version 3.5.3 or higher. This version contains the fix for the Remote Code Execution vulnerability. You can update the plugin directly from the WordPress admin panel.
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CVE-2021-4434 is a critical Remote Code Execution vulnerability in the Social Warfare WordPress plugin, allowing attackers to execute code on the server via the 'swp_url' parameter.
You are affected if you are using Social Warfare plugin versions 3.5.3 or earlier. Upgrade immediately to mitigate the risk.
Upgrade the Social Warfare plugin to version 3.5.3 or later. If immediate upgrade is not possible, disable the plugin temporarily.
While no confirmed active exploitation campaigns are currently known, the vulnerability's severity and ease of exploitation make it a likely target.
Refer to the Social Warfare plugin website and WordPress.org plugin repository for the latest security advisories and updates.
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