CleanTalk's blog

    Sign up

    Tag: security

    • CleanTalk Research Team Discovers Stored XSS Vulnerability in WP SEOPress Plugin (v7.7.1)

      CleanTalk Research Team Discovers Stored XSS Vulnerability in WP SEOPress Plugin (v7.7.1)

      The CleanTalk Research Team identified a critical Stored XSS (Cross-Site Scripting) vulnerability in the WP SEOPress plugin, version 7.7.1. This flaw can be exploited by attackers with contributor privileges to create new admin accounts, potentially granting them full control of your WordPress website.

      Understanding Stored XSS (CVE-2024-4899)

      Stored XSS vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious scripts directly into your website’s database. These scripts are then executed whenever someone views the compromised content. Unlike reflected XSS, user interaction isn’t required to trigger the attack, making it particularly dangerous.

      How Attackers Can Exploit This Vulnerability

      An attacker with contributor privileges can exploit this vulnerability by injecting malicious JavaScript code into the “SEO Title” field while creating a new post. This code can then be used to create a new admin account, granting them complete control over your website.

      Potential Consequences of an Exploit

      • Complete Site Takeover: Attackers could create new admin accounts and seize full control of your website.
      • Data Theft: Sensitive information like user credentials, financial records, and even your website’s content could be stolen.
      • Website Defacement: Attackers could alter the appearance of your site, inject further malicious code, or display unauthorized content.
      • Persistent Backdoors: Malicious actors might install backdoors to ensure continued access even after the initial vulnerability is patched.

      Taking Action to Secure Your Website

      1. Update Immediately: The most critical step is to update the WP SEOPress plugin to the latest version as soon as possible. This update addresses the vulnerability and safeguards your website.
      2. Review User Roles: Carefully review user roles and permissions. Contributors should have the minimum access necessary for their tasks.

      Through continuous vulnerability discovery and disclosure, we empower website owners and developers to take preventative measures. We believe that by working together, we can create a robust and secure WordPress ecosystem for everyone.

      Stay vigilant. Stay secure.

    • Critical Vulnerability Discovered in Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks Plugin

      Critical Vulnerability Discovered in Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks Plugin

      Our team at CleanTalk prioritizes the safety and security of the WordPress ecosystem. Through routine security testing, we’ve identified a critical vulnerability in the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin. This flaw poses a serious threat to WordPress websites, as it allows attackers to inject malicious code and potentially gain complete control.

      Understanding the Threat (CVE-2024-4057)

      This vulnerability, classified as Stored XSS (Cross-Site Scripting), enables attackers to embed malicious scripts directly into your website’s content. Unlike some vulnerabilities, Stored XSS doesn’t require user interaction to be triggered. This means anyone visiting your site, not just administrators, could be exposed.

      Potential Consequences of an Exploit

      • Complete Site Takeover: Attackers could create new admin accounts and seize full control of your website.
      • Data Theft: Sensitive information like user credentials, financial records, and even your website’s content could be stolen.
      • Website Defacement: Attackers could alter the appearance of your site, inject further malicious code, or display unauthorized content.
      • Persistent Backdoors: Malicious actors might install backdoors to ensure continued access even after the initial vulnerability is patched.

      Taking Action to Secure Your Website

      The most critical step is to update the Gutenberg Blocks by Kadence Blocks plugin to the latest version immediately. This update addresses the vulnerability and safeguards your website.

      CleanTalk’s Commitment to WordPress Security

      At CleanTalk, we are relentless in our pursuit of discovering and disclosing vulnerabilities to protect the WordPress community. We strongly encourage all website owners to prioritize regular security updates and implement additional security measures like:

      • Regular Vulnerability Scans: Proactive scanning helps identify and address potential threats before they are exploited.
      • Least Privilege Principle: Grant users only the permissions necessary for their roles to minimize damage in case of a compromise.
      • Security Plugins: Consider using security plugins that offer features like malware scanning, firewalls, and real-time threat monitoring.

      By working together, we can create a safer and more secure WordPress ecosystem for everyone.

      Stay vigilant. Stay secure.

    • Mitigating WordPress.com API Vulnerability

      Mitigating WordPress.com API Vulnerability

      Attention WordPress website owners! We’re excited to announce that the CleanTalk Security Plugin now effectively addresses a well-known vulnerability involving the WordPress.com API.

      This vulnerability, previously discussed here, allowed unauthorized actors to potentially trace administrator usernames through a public API endpoint. While disabling the REST API entirely would be ideal, it wasn’t always a viable option for many websites.

      The CleanTalk Team Steps Up

      We understand the critical nature of this vulnerability and the potential security risks it poses. Our development team has been working diligently to implement a comprehensive solution within the CleanTalk Security Plugin.

      This update delivers:

      • Enhanced User Data Protection: CleanTalk can now effectively block attempts to exploit the exposed API endpoint, safeguarding your administrator username and other sensitive user data.
      • Improved Overall Security: This fix is just one piece of the puzzle. CleanTalk Security offers a robust suite of security measures to keep your website safe from a wide range of threats.

      What You Can Do

      1. Update Your Plugin: Ensure you’re running the latest version of the CleanTalk Security Plugin to benefit from this critical fix and ongoing protection.
      2. Review Your Security Practices: Consider implementing additional security measures like strong password policies and user access restrictions for an extra layer of defense.

      CleanTalk: Committed to Your Security

      We at CleanTalk are dedicated to providing the best possible security for your WordPress website. We continuously refine our plugin to address both emerging and long-standing vulnerabilities.

      For further information on CleanTalk Security and its capabilities, please refer to the plugin’s documentation.

      This revised announcement emphasizes the team’s effort in resolving a known issue and highlights the broader security benefits of the CleanTalk Security Plugin.

    • Strengthen Your WordPress Security with Built-in Vulnerability Checks by CleanTalk

      Strengthen Your WordPress Security with Built-in Vulnerability Checks by CleanTalk

      The CleanTalk Security plugin now offers built-in plugin vulnerability checks, empowering you to safeguard your WordPress website proactively. Just a friendly reminder if you haven’t try it till now: feel free to pick up the plugin and install it according to these instructions. 

      While plugins add valuable functionality, they can also introduce security risks if vulnerabilities exist. To address this, CleanTalk regularly scans popular plugins and integrates the findings directly into the Security plugin.

      Here’s how it benefits you:

      • Real-time Vulnerability Insights: Get notified within the plugin itself whenever potential vulnerabilities are detected in your active plugins.
      • Proactive Security Measures: Take immediate action to address vulnerabilities and minimize the risk of attacks.
      • Simplified Security Management: No need to visit external platforms for vulnerability information; it’s all accessible within the plugin.

      This integration strengthens your WordPress security by informing you about potential threats and allowing you to take immediate action.

      Stay Updated, Stay Secure!

      The CleanTalk Security plugin continues to evolve, offering comprehensive security solutions for your WordPress site. Remember to update the plugin to benefit from the latest features and vulnerability checks.

    • Strengthen Your WordPress Defense: The Ultimate Brute Force Protection 

      Strengthen Your WordPress Defense: The Ultimate Brute Force Protection 

      In the vast world of the internet, your WordPress site faces constant threats from brute force attacks. But worry not! Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk is here to fortify your digital fortress and ensure it remains impervious to intrusion.

      In WordPress security, the login form is both essential and vulnerable. Hackers target it with relentless brute force attacks, exploiting weaknesses in passwords and outdated software. Once inside, they wreak havoc, defacing sites or stealing sensitive data. However, with measures like two-factor authentication and regular updates, we can strengthen our defenses and keep our digital kingdoms safe from harm.

      Enhance Your Security: Key Features

      • Security Firewall: Guard Your Gates

      “Build a sturdy wall around your website! CleanTalk’s Security Firewall filters out malicious IPs and halts DDoS attacks, safeguarding your WordPress site from harm.”

      • Malware Scanner: Detect and Remove Threats

      Hunt down hidden dangers! CleanTalk’s vigilant scanner identifies and eliminates malware, ensuring your WordPress files stay clean and your site stays secure.

      • Brute Force Protection: Keep Intruders Out

      “Block unwanted guests from your site! CleanTalk’s Brute Force Protection plugin limits login attempts and adds delays on failed logins, effectively thwarting brute force attacks.

      • Two-Factor Authentication: Double Up on Security

      Add an extra layer of protection! CleanTalk’s Two-Factor Authentication ensures that only authorized users gain access to your WordPress domain, boosting security for your peace of mind.

      • Custom wp-login URL: Hide Your Entry Point

      Keep your login page under wraps! CleanTalk lets you customize your login URL, confusing automated login attempts and safeguarding against unauthorized access.

      Secure Your WordPress Stronghold

      With over 20,000 active installations and nearly a perfect 5-star rating on WordPress.org, Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk stands as a trusted guardian in the realm of WordPress security. Its widespread adoption and high user satisfaction attest to its effectiveness in fortifying websites against cyber threats. From thwarting brute force attacks to detecting and eliminating malware, Security & Malware Scan by CleanTalk offers a comprehensive suite of features to keep your WordPress site safe and secure. 

      Don’t overlook the critical need to fortify your digital defenses. Stay informed with CleanTalk Research, your indispensable source for real-time alerts on plugin vulnerabilities and PSC plugin security certificates. Subscribe to our Telegram channel and stay one step ahead of cyber threats. Learn more: Subscribe to CleanTalk Research

      Choose Security & Malware scan by CleanTalk and protect your WordPress kingdom with ease and efficiency. Your digital fortress awaits its impenetrable shield!

    • Why Even the Best Free Malware Removal Tools Can’t Cure Your Website Completely

      Why Even the Best Free Malware Removal Tools Can’t Cure Your Website Completely

      If your website was developed using one of the popular CMS like WordPress or others, there are various security plugins for them, which provide permanent protection from malware. But what to do if your site is unprotected and you suspect that it has been infected? Let’s find out together.

       

      6 signs that your website may be infected

      First of all, let’s break down when it’s really time for you to think about cleaning your site of malware.

      1. Unusual activity in Server logs
        Server logs contain access logs that display the users who have recently accessed your website.

      2. Your website is slow
        Hackers deploy DoS attacks to overload your server resources, thus impacting your website speed and performance.

      3. Emails ending in the Spam folder
        This happens when your web server is infected with malware. As a result, email servers categorize your emails as “spam”.

      4. Pop-up and Spam Ads
        Usually happens when you have installed an insecure plugin or theme. Hackers earn money when visitor clicks on them.

      5. Modified website files
        To insert backdoors and other malicious code in your site, hackers often modify your website core files.

      6. Website being redirected
        Hackers often deploy cross-site scripting (or XSS) attacks to send your website traffic to unsolicited websites.

      What is a manual malware removal

      During a manual malware removal, a dedicated cybersecurity specialist is assigned to your site to work on your site from start to complete site cleanup.

      Step 1: Clean up the bad stuff
      Using SSH and admin access, the specialist reaches your website hosting and gets rid of all viruses, malware, malicious code, and bad links on your website.

      Step 2: Restore the site from backup
      In case you have a backup he restores the site from backup. Otherwise, he works with the site’s current version.

      Step 3: Protect it from future infections
      The specialist installs a permanent Security protection plugin to avoid infecting in the future.

       

      Reasons to use manual malware removal instead of automatic

      Sometimes automatic solutions can be enough to find the most known viruses and malware and often are low cost or free.

      Automatic free malware removal tools can be effective at identifying and removing known malware from a website, but there are several reasons why they may not completely cure a website of all security threats.

      • Over-insurance and possible data loss
        The problem is that they often over-insure and accept your files as bad ones, causing large file and data losses during automatic site cures. A specialist can always distinguish your files from malicious ones even if it’s a custom code.

      • Evolving Malware
        Malware is constantly evolving, with new variants and techniques being developed by cybercriminals. Automatic tools may not always be able to keep up with the latest malware threats.

      • Hidden Malware
        Some malware is designed to be stealthy and can hide in obscure locations within a website’s code or files. Automatic tools may not always detect these hidden threats.

      • False Positives
        Automatic tools may sometimes flag legitimate code or files as malware, leading to false positives. This can result in the removal of essential components of the website, causing functionality issues.

      • Complex Infections
        In some cases, websites may be infected with complex malware that requires manual intervention to fully eradicate. Automatic tools may not have the capability to address these intricate infections effectively.

      • Vulnerability Patching
        While malware removal tools can remove existing infections, they may not address the underlying vulnerabilities that allowed the malware to compromise the website in the first place. It’s essential to also address security vulnerabilities and implement robust security measures to prevent future infections.

      • Human Expertise
        Manual inspection and intervention by cybersecurity experts are often necessary to thoroughly assess the extent of an infection, identify potential backdoors, and ensure that the website is fully secure.

      In conclusion, while automatic malware removal tools are valuable for initial detection and removal of known threats, they may not be sufficient to completely cure a website of all security issues. Manual inspection, ongoing security measures, and expert intervention are often necessary to ensure comprehensive protection against malware and other security threats.

       

      Why it is profitable for you to use CleanTalk malware removal

      100% refund in case of unsuccessful
      We will manually clean your site from viruses and malware or refund your money.      		10+ years fighting malware
      of fighting malware and spam all over the Internet. We are aware of all the dangers that can threaten your website and how to deal with them.

      30-day support
      Free 30-day help with reinfection. As a guarantee of our work we continue to be with you and will get back to work if needed.

      		50+ CVE reports published
      And we continue to share found vulnerabilities in our blog.
      10 000+ active users
      A lot of loyal users that trust our experience and use our Security protection.      		1 year of free Security Plugin
      Order your Malware Removal now and get 1 year of free Security plugin.

      Clean your site from malware today

      And get CleanTalk Security Plugin for 1 year for FREE

      ORDER MALWARE REMOVAL

       

       

    • Discovering IP Address Information with IP Info Tools

      Discovering IP Address Information with IP Info Tools

      When it comes to understanding the activity and location of an IP address, there are various tools available that provide valuable information. CleanTalk IP Tools allows users to gather details about an IP address, including its geographical location, DNS name, provider, and spam activity.

      How IP address info works

      By entering an IP address into the IP Info tool on cleantalk.org, users can gain insights into the geographic location of the IP address, including the country, region, city, and even the latitude and longitude coordinates. This information can be useful for tracking the origin of suspicious or malicious activity on a website or network.

      In addition to geographical location, the IP Info tool also provides details about the DNS name associated with the IP address. This can be helpful for identifying the domain or organization to which the IP address is registered, providing valuable context for potential security threats or network management.

      Furthermore, the IP Info tool on cleantalk.org offers information about the provider associated with the IP address, allowing users to understand the network infrastructure and ownership behind the address. This can be crucial for identifying and contacting the responsible party in the event of abuse or unauthorized access.

      Lastly, the IP Info tool also includes data about the presence of spam or hacking activity associated with the IP address. This can be a valuable indicator for website administrators and network security professionals when monitoring for malicious or unwanted traffic originating from a particular IP address.

      In conclusion, the IP Info tools provided by cleantalk.org are valuable resources for gaining insights into the details of an IP address, including its geographical location, DNS name, provider, and spam activity. Whether for website administrators, network security professionals, or individual users, these tools offer important information for understanding and managing online activity and security risks.

      Search the IP address in the CleanTalk IP database.

    • Fraud Prevention: How CleanTalk Can Help Identify and Prevent Fraud Attacks

      Fraud Prevention: How CleanTalk Can Help Identify and Prevent Fraud Attacks

      Fraud attacks have become increasingly prevalent, posing a serious threat to businesses and individuals alike. These attacks involve the use of deceptive tactics to gain unauthorized access to sensitive information or financial resources. Fraudsters often utilize various means such as phishing, identity theft, and credit card fraud to carry out their malicious activities. The consequences of falling victim to a fraud attack can be devastating, leading to financial losses, damage to reputation, and legal repercussions.

      One of the key challenges in combating fraud is the ability to accurately identify and prevent such attacks in real time. 
      CleanTalk provides cloud security and anti-spam services for websites. By leveraging comprehensive data about IP and email addresses from our blacklists, CleanTalk enables businesses to effectively detect and block fraudulent activities.

      Examples of Weekly TOP20 Blacklisted Spam IP & Email addresses.

      The data from these blacklists contains valuable information about known malicious IPs and email addresses that have been associated with fraudulent behavior, spam or hacking attempts. This is an important indicator of malicious behavior, as spammers often engage in a wide range of fraudulent activities beyond just sending spam emails. By monitoring and analyzing these patterns, businesses can gain valuable intelligence that helps them avoid potential fraud attacks. By cross-referencing this data with the activities on their platforms, businesses can proactively identify and block potential fraudsters before they can cause harm.

      CleanTalk offers multiple methods for businesses to integrate fraud prevention services into their platforms. The use of our API allows for real-time checks on IP and email addresses, ensuring that any suspicious activity is promptly flagged and addressed. Additionally, CleanTalk provides the option to regularly update and synchronize their blacklist data with a business’s internal systems through the export of data files, ensuring that the most current information is always available for fraud prevention efforts.

      By harnessing the power of CleanTalk’s comprehensive data and cutting-edge technology, businesses can significantly enhance our ability to identify and prevent fraud attacks. This proactive approach not only safeguards businesses and individuals from potential financial losses but also contributes to building trust and confidence in online transactions. As fraud continues to evolve and become more sophisticated, the importance of robust fraud prevention measures cannot be overstated. CleanTalk stands out as a valuable ally in this ongoing battle against fraud, empowering businesses to stay one step ahead of fraudsters and protect their operations and customers from harm.

      How to Get Access to the CleanTalk Blacklists Database

       

    • How to Check wp-content for Malware with Security by CleanTalk?

      How to Check wp-content for Malware with Security by CleanTalk?

      WordPress powers a significant portion of the internet, making it an attractive target for cyberattacks. Ensuring the security of your WordPress website is paramount. One essential aspect of WordPress security is regularly checking your wp-content directory for vulnerabilities. In this article, we’ll guide you through the process of safeguarding your wp-content folder using the powerful Security by CleanTalk plugin.

      Why Checking wp-content for Malware is Crucial?

      Your website’s wp-content directory is a critical part of your WordPress installation. It contains themes, plugins, and uploaded media files, making it an attractive target for hackers. Malicious actors often seek vulnerabilities in this directory to compromise your website’s security.

      Checking wp-content is vital because it allows you to:

      1. Detect Unauthorized Access: Regular checks help you identify any unauthorized changes or suspicious files within your wp-content folder.
      2. Prevent Malware Infections: Detecting malware early can prevent it from spreading throughout your site, damaging your reputation and potentially harming your visitors.
      3. Maintain Website Performance: A compromised wp-content directory can slow down your site and disrupt its functionality. Regular checks help maintain optimal performance.
      4. Protect Sensitive Data: Your wp-content directory may contain sensitive information. Ensuring its security safeguards your data and user information.

      Introducing Security by CleanTalk

      To streamline the process of checking your wp-content directory and enhancing your WordPress security, we recommend installing the “Security by CleanTalk” plugin. This comprehensive security plugin offers a wide range of features to protect your website, including:

      1. Real-time Firewall: Defends your site against malicious traffic and hacking attempts in real-time.
      2. Spam Protection: Blocks spam comments and registrations to keep your site’s content clean.
      3. Malware Scanner: Regularly scans your website for malware, vulnerabilities, and unsafe permissions.
      4. Login Page Security: Protects your login page from brute force attacks.
      5. Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): Adds an extra layer of login security for administrators.
      6. IP and Country Blocking: Allows you to block specific IP addresses or entire countries to prevent malicious access.
      7. Security Audit Trails: Keeps a record of all security-related events on your site for monitoring and analysis.

      How to Install Security by CleanTalk

      Follow these simple steps to install and activate Security by CleanTalk on your WordPress website:

      1. Login to Your WordPress Admin Dashboard: Navigate to your WordPress dashboard by entering your site’s URL followed by “/wp-admin” (e.g., “https://yourwebsite.com/wp-admin“).
      2. Go to Plugins: In the left sidebar, click on “Plugins.”
      3. Add New Plugin: Click the “Add New” button at the top of the Plugins page.
      4. Search for “Security by CleanTalk”: In the search bar, type “Security by CleanTalk” and press Enter.
      5. Install and Activate: When you see the plugin in the search results, click “Install Now,” and then click “Activate” once it’s installed.
      6. Configure Settings: Visit the “Security by CleanTalk” settings page in your WordPress dashboard to configure the plugin’s settings to your liking. Be sure to set up the malware scanner to check your wp-content directory regularly.
      7. Enjoy Enhanced Security: With Security by CleanTalk in place, your WordPress website is now fortified against threats, and your wp-content directory will be regularly monitored for vulnerabilities.
      Security by CleanTalk at WordPress.
      The Malware scanner checked and found an issue with wp-content.
      The Malware scanner cured files at wp-content.

      Conclusion

      Regularly checking your wp-content directory is an essential part of maintaining a secure WordPress website. To simplify this process and ensure comprehensive protection for your site, we recommend installing the “Security by CleanTalk” plugin. With its wide range of security features, this plugin will help you safeguard your website, keeping it safe from threats and ensuring the integrity of your wp-content directory.

      Don’t leave the security of your WordPress site to chance—take proactive steps today by installing Security by CleanTalk and regularly checking your wp-content folder for peace of mind and a secure online presence.

    • We Have Reset 178 Passwords That Might Have Been Compromised

      We Have Reset 178 Passwords That Might Have Been Compromised

      While monitoring exposed password databases we found a leaked database that contained 178 compromised credentials of CleanTalk users among other data. These emails/passwords were compromised some time ago and after that were used to create a CleanTalk account by their owners. As soon as we found this potential vulnerability – we immediately reset passwords for all CleanTalk users related to these email addresses.

      Please remember to be careful when clicking on third-party links or using unverified services or WordPress plugins. And be sure to check the list of your compromised passwords in your browser. If you use Google Chrome you can find it here: chrome://password-manager/checkup/compromised.