CVE-2024-13216 is a vulnerability identified in the HT Event – WordPress Event Manager Plugin for Elementor, specifically in all versions up to and including 1.4.7. The flaw resides in the 'render' function within the /includes/widgets/htevent_sponsor.php file, where insufficient access control allows authenticated users with Contributor-level permissions or higher to access sensitive private information. This includes private, pending, scheduled, and draft template data that should normally be restricted. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-359, indicating exposure of private personal information to unauthorized actors. The attack vector is network-based (remote), requiring low attack complexity and no user interaction, but it does require the attacker to be authenticated with at least Contributor privileges. The vulnerability does not impact integrity or availability but compromises confidentiality by leaking sensitive data. No patches or fixes have been released at the time of publication, and no active exploitation has been reported. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.3, reflecting a medium severity rating. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to 1.4.7, which is widely used in WordPress sites that manage events using Elementor page builder. The exposure of draft and scheduled templates could lead to leakage of sensitive event-related information or personal data, potentially aiding further attacks or privacy violations.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-13216 is the unauthorized disclosure of sensitive private information stored within the WordPress Event Manager Plugin templates. Organizations using this plugin risk leakage of confidential event data, including unpublished or draft event details that could contain personal or proprietary information. This exposure could facilitate social engineering, targeted phishing, or reputational damage if sensitive event plans or personal data are leaked. Although the vulnerability requires authenticated access at Contributor level or above, many WordPress sites allow such roles to external users or contributors, increasing the risk surface. The vulnerability does not affect system integrity or availability, but the confidentiality breach can undermine trust and compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR. For organizations relying on this plugin for event management, especially those handling sensitive or private events, the risk is significant. The absence of a patch increases the window of exposure until a fix is released. Attackers with limited privileges can escalate their information gathering capabilities, potentially leading to further exploitation or privilege escalation.

To mitigate CVE-2024-13216, organizations should immediately audit and restrict Contributor-level access to trusted users only, minimizing the number of users with permissions that allow exploitation. Implement strict role-based access controls and review user roles regularly to ensure no unnecessary privileges are granted. Disable or remove the HT Event – WordPress Event Manager Plugin for Elementor if it is not essential, or replace it with alternative event management plugins that have no known vulnerabilities. Monitor WordPress site logs for unusual access patterns or attempts to access sensitive template data. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable 'render' function or related endpoints. Stay informed about vendor updates and apply patches promptly once released. Additionally, consider implementing content security policies and data encryption for sensitive event data stored within WordPress. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on plugin vulnerabilities and access control weaknesses. Finally, educate contributors and users about the risks of privilege misuse and enforce strong authentication mechanisms.