Source: audit@patchstack.com
Missing Authorization vulnerability in merkulove Logger for Elementor allows Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels.This issue affects Logger for Elementor: from n/a through 1.0.9.
Merkulove Logger for Elementor versions up to 1.0.9 are vulnerable to a missing authorization flaw, allowing attackers to bypass access controls and potentially gain unauthorized access to sensitive logging data. This vulnerability could lead to information disclosure, privilege escalation, and potentially a complete system compromise.
Step 1: Authentication (if required): The attacker, if not already authenticated, authenticates to the WordPress site. This step's success depends on the site's authentication mechanisms (e.g., username/password, social login). Step 2: Identify the Vulnerable Endpoint: The attacker identifies the specific API endpoint or function within the Merkulove Logger for Elementor plugin that handles logging operations (e.g., reading logs, writing logs, modifying log settings). This might involve analyzing the plugin's code or using a tool like Burp Suite to intercept and analyze HTTP requests. Step 3: Craft a Malicious Request: The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request targeting the vulnerable endpoint. This request bypasses the authorization checks by directly accessing the logging functionality without the necessary permissions. The request might involve a crafted payload to read sensitive log data or modify log entries. Step 4: Send the Request: The attacker sends the crafted HTTP request to the WordPress site. Step 5: Exploit Execution: The server processes the request. Because of the missing authorization, the request is processed as if the user had the necessary permissions. This allows the attacker to read, write, or modify the logs. Step 6: Data Exfiltration/Manipulation: The attacker either extracts sensitive information from the logs or manipulates the logs to cover their tracks or inject malicious content.
The vulnerability stems from a failure to properly implement authorization checks within the Merkulove Logger for Elementor plugin. Specifically, the plugin does not adequately verify user permissions before allowing access to its logging functionalities. This likely manifests as a missing or insufficient check on the user's role or capabilities before granting access to read, write, or modify log entries. The root cause is likely a coding error where the developer either omitted authorization checks entirely or implemented them incorrectly, leading to a bypass. This could involve a simple logic flaw, such as allowing access based on a non-authoritative source or failing to validate user input properly. The lack of proper access control allows any authenticated user (or potentially even unauthenticated users depending on the plugin's configuration) to interact with the logging features, potentially leading to the exposure of sensitive information or the ability to manipulate logs to cover malicious activities.
While no specific APTs or malware are directly linked to this vulnerability at this time, the nature of the vulnerability (missing authorization) makes it attractive to various threat actors. Attackers could use this to gather intelligence, escalate privileges, or establish a foothold within a compromised system. This vulnerability does not have a CISA KEV status yet, given its recent publication.
Monitor HTTP request logs for unusual activity targeting the Merkulove Logger for Elementor plugin's endpoints (e.g., requests to read or modify log files).
Analyze WordPress access logs for suspicious activity, such as unauthorized access to sensitive data or attempts to modify log entries.
Implement file integrity monitoring to detect any unauthorized changes to the plugin's files or the log files themselves.
Network Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS) and Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) should be configured to detect malicious requests targeting the vulnerable endpoints.
Examine the plugin's code for missing or improperly implemented authorization checks.
Update Merkulove Logger for Elementor to version 1.1.0 or later (or the patched version).
Implement robust authorization checks within the plugin to ensure that only authorized users can access logging functionalities.
Review and audit the plugin's code to identify and fix any other potential security vulnerabilities.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic.
Regularly update WordPress and all installed plugins to the latest versions.
Enforce the principle of least privilege, granting users only the necessary permissions.
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for all user accounts.