Hackers Exploit Security Bug in a WordPress Plugin Used by 11 Million Websites
Threat Summary:
A security vulnerability has been discovered in the Elementor Pro plugin, which is used by over 11 million websites on WordPress. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability to gain access to the website's settings, including administrator settings, potentially leading to a complete takeover of the website. Cybersecurity experts have warned that this vulnerability is being actively exploited, and website owners using the Elementor Pro plugin are advised to update it as soon as possible.
Impact:
- A security bug in the Elementor Pro plugin, used by over 11 million websites, has been discovered, leaving them vulnerable to cyberattacks.
- The vulnerability allows authenticated users to change website settings, including administrator settings, which could lead to a complete takeover of the website.
- Attackers have been actively exploiting the vulnerability to redirect users to malicious websites or upload backdoors to the breached site, potentially gaining full access to the WordPress site and stealing data or installing additional malicious code.
- The vulnerability is not unique to Elementor Pro. WordPress has also been known to be vulnerable to cyberattacks for a long time, often targeted by hackers due to its widespread use.
- To protect websites from cyberattacks, it is crucial to keep all plugins and software up-to-date, have a comprehensive security strategy in place, use strong passwords, backup websites regularly, and be cautious of third-party plugins and themes.
Vulnerable Versions:
Elementor Pro, a popular WordPress plugin
How to Protect Yourself:
- Keep WordPress and its plugins and themes up-to-date.
- Use strong passwords.
- Use a security plugin.
- Backup your website regularly.
- Be cautious of third-party plugins and themes.
Additionally, if you are using the Elementor Pro plugin, make sure to update it to the latest version as soon as possible to avoid being vulnerable to attacks.
