CVE-2024-1771 in Total Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/06/2024
The Total theme for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the total_order_sections() function in all versions up to, and including, 2.1.59. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access and above, to repeat sections on the homepage.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/12/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-1771 affects the Total theme for WordPress, representing a critical authorization flaw that undermines the integrity of website content management. This weakness exists within the total_order_sections() function, which fails to implement proper capability verification before allowing modifications to homepage section arrangements. The vulnerability specifically impacts all versions of the theme up to and including version 2.1.59, making it a widespread concern for WordPress administrators who have not yet updated their installations. The flaw allows attackers with subscriber-level access or higher to manipulate the order and repetition of homepage sections, potentially compromising the site's visual presentation and user experience.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from the absence of capability checks within the WordPress permission system, which should normally restrict modifications to core site elements based on user roles and privileges. According to CWE classification, this represents a weakness in authorization mechanisms where the application fails to verify that the requesting user has adequate permissions to perform the requested operation. The vulnerability creates a path for privilege escalation through unauthorized data modification, as the missing capability check allows users to bypass normal access controls that should prevent non-administrative users from altering structural elements of the website.
From an operational perspective, this vulnerability presents significant risks to website integrity and content management. Attackers with subscriber-level access can exploit this flaw to repeat homepage sections, potentially creating misleading content or disrupting the site's intended layout and navigation. This capability could be leveraged to manipulate user perception of the website's structure, potentially leading to phishing attempts or content confusion. The impact extends beyond simple visual disruption as it allows attackers to create persistent modifications that could affect SEO rankings, user engagement, and overall site credibility. The vulnerability particularly affects websites that rely heavily on homepage section ordering for their content presentation strategy.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-1771 should prioritize immediate theme updates to versions that address the missing capability check in the total_order_sections() function. WordPress administrators must ensure all users with access to the site maintain appropriate role-based permissions and regularly audit user accounts for unauthorized access. The implementation of additional security measures including web application firewalls, regular security audits, and monitoring of user activities can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider implementing principle of least privilege access controls and regular security training for users with administrative capabilities. According to ATT&CK framework, this vulnerability aligns with techniques involving privilege escalation and unauthorized data modification, making it essential to monitor for suspicious user activities that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper capability verification in web applications, particularly in content management systems where user roles and permissions are fundamental to system security.