CVE-2024-13411 is a Server-Side Request Forgery (SSRF) vulnerability identified in the Zapier for WordPress plugin, affecting all versions up to and including 1.5.1. The vulnerability resides in the updated_user() function, which improperly handles user input, allowing authenticated attackers with Subscriber-level privileges or higher to craft requests that the server executes on their behalf. SSRF vulnerabilities enable attackers to make HTTP requests from the vulnerable server to arbitrary internal or external locations, bypassing network restrictions and potentially accessing sensitive internal services that are not exposed externally. In this case, the attacker can query and modify information on internal services, which could lead to data leakage, unauthorized internal network reconnaissance, or manipulation of internal APIs. The vulnerability requires authentication but no user interaction, and the attack surface includes any WordPress site running the affected plugin versions. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low complexity, and low privileges required. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains significant given the widespread use of WordPress and Zapier integrations.

The impact of CVE-2024-13411 can be substantial for organizations relying on WordPress sites integrated with Zapier. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized internal network scanning and data access, potentially exposing sensitive internal services that are otherwise protected by network segmentation or firewalls. Attackers could leverage this to gather intelligence, pivot to other internal systems, or modify internal data, undermining confidentiality and integrity. While availability impact is low, the breach of internal trust boundaries can facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation or data exfiltration. Organizations with complex internal networks or sensitive internal APIs exposed only internally are at higher risk. The requirement for authenticated access limits exposure but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments where subscriber-level accounts are common or easily compromised.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should immediately update the Zapier for WordPress plugin to a patched version once available. Until a patch is released, restrict Subscriber-level user capabilities to the minimum necessary and monitor for suspicious activity related to user updates. Implement network-level controls to restrict outbound HTTP requests from the WordPress server to only trusted destinations, limiting the ability to perform SSRF attacks. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block SSRF patterns targeting the updated_user() function or related endpoints. Conduct regular audits of user accounts to ensure no unauthorized Subscriber-level accounts exist. Additionally, review internal services to ensure they are not unnecessarily exposed or accessible from the WordPress server. Logging and alerting on unusual internal requests originating from the WordPress server can help detect exploitation attempts early.