WordPress User Role Editor Detection Scanner
This scanner detects the use of User Role Editor in digital assets.
Short Info
Level
Informational
Single Scan
Single Scan
Can be used by
Asset Owner
Estimated Time
10 seconds
Time Interval
9 days 23 hours
Scan only one
URL
Toolbox
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User Role Editor is a WordPress plugin that allows administrators to manage user roles and capabilities more flexibly on their sites. It is widely used by website owners, developers, and business managers to customize the access levels and permissions of different user roles within a WordPress environment. The plugin provides a straightforward interface for modifying roles, making it easier to tailor user access to specific needs. Organizations utilize this tool to enhance security and streamline content management workflows by ensuring that users only have access to the functionalities required for their tasks. This plugin is particularly beneficial in complex WordPress sites where default user roles do not suffice for specialized requirements. Its ease of use and versatility make it one of the top plugins in the WordPress repository.
The vulnerability of User Role Editor detected by this scanner is meant to identify the usage of this plugin on websites. Since this scanner is focused on detection, it is useful for security assessments and inventory management of digital assets by confirming the presence of User Role Editor. Ensuring this plugin's presence allows administrators to take further measures to manage and secure the user's roles effectively. As plugins often receive updates for security and feature enhancements, detecting their presence helps maintain a secure and up-to-date WordPress site. Proper awareness of the plugins in use, such as User Role Editor, is critical for implementing security best practices. Knowing whether or not User Role Editor is active helps in designing appropriate site security strategies.
To achieve detection, this scanner performs a GET request to check for the presence of a specific User Role Editor file in the WordPress directory structure. The plugin's readme.txt file in the wp-content/plugins directory is used as an indicator for detection. Technical details ensure that upon detection, further patterns are identified, such as the version of the plugin, by using regular expressions to parse the contents of the file. The detection logic may include identifying an outdated version based on pre-determined version data compared to the detected version. This process provides a straightforward method to assess compliance with recommended plugin updates and aid in vulnerability management.
If malicious actors were to exploit insecurity within User Role Editor, there could be unauthorized manipulation of user roles leading to privilege escalation. This could allow unauthorized users to access sensitive parts of the site, execute administrative functions, or disrupt service flow. An exploited vulnerability within the plugin could result in data breaches, content alteration, or other forms of tampering with the site's integrity. The scenario of privileges being incorrectly set poses significant risks in the site's operational security posture. Exploited vulnerabilities also harm the website's reputation and need prompt resolution to prevent potential attacks.
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