CVE-2021-24869 is a high-severity SQL Injection vulnerability affecting the WP Fastest Cache WordPress plugin versions prior to 0.9.5. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of special elements used in SQL commands (CWE-89). Specifically, the plugin's set_urls_with_terms method fails to properly escape user-supplied input before incorporating it into SQL queries. This flaw allows attackers with low privilege levels, such as subscribers, to inject malicious SQL code. Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized access to the WordPress database, enabling attackers to read, modify, or delete sensitive data, escalate privileges, or disrupt website availability. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8 reflects the vulnerability's critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, combined with ease of exploitation over the network without user interaction. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's presence in a widely used caching plugin for WordPress sites poses a significant risk, especially given WordPress's extensive adoption across Europe. Attackers could leverage this flaw to compromise websites, deface content, steal user credentials, or pivot to further internal network attacks.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2021-24869 can be substantial. Many European businesses, government agencies, and non-profits rely on WordPress for their web presence, often using caching plugins like WP Fastest Cache to improve performance. A successful SQL injection attack could lead to data breaches involving personal data protected under GDPR, resulting in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, compromised websites could be used to distribute malware or conduct phishing campaigns targeting European users. The integrity and availability of web services could be disrupted, affecting customer trust and operational continuity. Given the vulnerability allows exploitation by low-privilege users, insider threats or compromised subscriber accounts could be leveraged to launch attacks, increasing the risk profile for organizations with large user bases or public-facing WordPress sites.

To mitigate this vulnerability, European organizations should immediately update the WP Fastest Cache plugin to version 0.9.5 or later, where the issue is fixed. If updating is not immediately possible, organizations should restrict subscriber-level user capabilities to minimize the risk of exploitation. Implementing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules specifically targeting SQL injection patterns can provide an additional protective layer. Regularly auditing user accounts and removing unnecessary subscriber roles reduces attack surface. Organizations should also enable detailed logging and monitoring of database queries and web application behavior to detect suspicious activity early. Employing principle of least privilege for database access and isolating the WordPress database from other critical systems can limit potential damage. Finally, conducting security awareness training for administrators and developers on secure coding and plugin management is recommended to prevent similar vulnerabilities.