Source: audit@patchstack.com
Missing Authorization vulnerability in merkulove Conformer for Elementor allows Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels.This issue affects Conformer for Elementor: from n/a through 1.0.7.
Merkulove Conformer for Elementor versions up to 1.0.7 are vulnerable to a missing authorization flaw, allowing attackers to bypass access controls. This vulnerability enables unauthorized access to sensitive data and potentially complete site compromise due to the lack of proper permission checks within the plugin's functionality.
Step 1: Identify Vulnerable Endpoint: The attacker identifies the specific endpoints within the Conformer for Elementor plugin that lack authorization checks. This could involve examining the plugin's code or using vulnerability scanning tools.
Step 2: Craft Malicious Request: The attacker crafts a malicious HTTP request, targeting the vulnerable endpoint. This request is designed to perform an action that the attacker is not authorized to perform (e.g., accessing or modifying sensitive data).
Step 3: Bypass Authorization: The crafted request bypasses the missing authorization checks. The plugin fails to verify the user's permissions before processing the request.
Step 4: Execute Unauthorized Action: The plugin executes the attacker's request, allowing them to perform the unauthorized action. This could involve reading sensitive data, modifying the website's content, or gaining administrative access.
Step 5: Data Exfiltration/Privilege Escalation: The attacker leverages the unauthorized access to achieve their objectives, such as exfiltrating sensitive data, defacing the website, or escalating their privileges within the system.
The vulnerability stems from a failure to implement adequate authorization checks within the Conformer for Elementor plugin. Specifically, the plugin's code lacks proper validation and permission checks before executing certain actions, such as accessing or modifying data. This allows an attacker to craft malicious requests that bypass intended access restrictions. The root cause is likely a missing or improperly implemented access control mechanism, where the plugin fails to verify the user's role or permissions before processing a request. This could manifest as a missing is_user_logged_in() check or a similar authorization check before executing sensitive functions. The lack of proper input validation further exacerbates the issue, potentially allowing for other vulnerabilities like SQL injection or cross-site scripting (XSS) if the attacker can control the data being processed.
While no specific APTs are directly linked, this vulnerability is attractive to a wide range of attackers, including those seeking to deface websites, steal data, or establish a foothold for further attacks. The lack of authorization makes it a simple and effective attack vector. This vulnerability is not yet listed on the CISA KEV catalog, but it is a strong candidate for inclusion if exploitation becomes widespread.
Monitor web server logs for suspicious HTTP requests targeting Conformer for Elementor endpoints, especially those involving data modification or access.
Analyze network traffic for unusual patterns, such as requests originating from unexpected IP addresses or user agents.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block malicious requests targeting the vulnerable plugin.
Monitor file system changes within the Elementor plugin directory for any unauthorized modifications.
Use intrusion detection systems (IDS) with signatures specifically designed to detect exploitation attempts against this vulnerability.
Update Conformer for Elementor to version 1.0.8 or later, which includes a fix for the missing authorization vulnerability.
Implement proper authorization checks within the plugin's code to ensure that users are properly authenticated and authorized before accessing sensitive functionality.
Review and harden the plugin's code to prevent other vulnerabilities, such as SQL injection and XSS.
Regularly scan the website for vulnerabilities using a web application scanner.
Implement a Web Application Firewall (WAF) to filter malicious traffic and protect against exploitation attempts.
Enforce the principle of least privilege, granting users only the minimum necessary permissions.
Monitor and audit user activity to detect any suspicious behavior.