CVE-2024-0893: Unauthorized Data Modification Vulnerability in Schema App Structured Data
CVE-2024-0893: Unauthorized Data Modification Vulnerability in Schema App Structured Data
On May 24, 2024, a critical cybersecurity vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-0893 was published. This vulnerability affects the Schema App Structured Data plugin for WordPress, a tool widely used to enhance website data structure for search engines. The vulnerability was first disclosed by Francesco Carlucci and later assigned a CVSS v3.1 base score of 4.3, indicating a medium severity.
Understanding the Vulnerability
The core issue with CVE-2024-0893 lies in the MarkupUpdate function of the Schema App Structured Data plugin, which lacks proper authorization checks. Specifically, in all versions up to and including 2.1.0, authenticated users with subscriber-level access or higher can modify or delete post metadata. This vulnerability is classified under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization), a common weakness that leads to unauthorized actions.
Technical Details
According to CVSS v3.1 metrics, the vulnerability has the following vector string: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N. This means that the vulnerability is remotely exploitable and requires low complexity for an authenticated attacker with minimal privileges. Failing to check user capabilities before executing the MarkupUpdate function can potentially lead to partial integrity impacts.
Implications
The implications of this vulnerability can be impactful for websites relying on the Schema App Structured Data plugin. Unauthorized modification of post metadata can lead to data integrity issues, affecting the structure and search engine visibility of website content. While the vulnerability doesn't directly compromise confidentiality or availability, it poses significant risks to data integrity.
Mitigation Strategies
To protect your WordPress site from potential exploitation, it is crucial to follow these mitigation steps:
- Update the Plugin: Ensure the Schema App Structured Data plugin is updated to the latest version beyond 2.1.0. Developers regularly release patches to address known vulnerabilities, and staying updated is your first line of defense.
- Apply the Principle of Least Privilege: Restrict user privileges based on necessity. Ensure that users with minimal actions are assigned the lowest possible access level.
- Monitor and Audit: Regularly monitor and audit user activities and post metadata changes. Use plugins or tools that log activities to detect unauthorized modifications promptly.
- Web Application Firewall (WAF): Employ a WAF to add an extra layer of security. Configuring WAF rules specific to your WordPress site can help block unauthorized actions and attacks.
- Code Review: If you possess the technical expertise, review the plugin code for additional vulnerabilities and apply custom patches if necessary.
References
The discovery and remediation of CVE-2024-0893 underscore the importance of vigilant security practices within the WordPress ecosystem. By promptly updating plugins and maintaining robust access controls, you can significantly reduce the risk posed by such vulnerabilities.
