
Urgent Security Alert: Update Your Plex Media Server on Windows Now
A critical security vulnerability has been discovered in Plex Media Server for Windows, requiring immediate action from users to protect their systems. If you run a Plex server on a Windows machine, it is crucial that you update your software to the latest version to prevent potential unauthorized access and system compromise.
This high-severity flaw could allow an attacker to execute malicious code on your server, potentially leading to a full system takeover. Taking a few moments to update is the most effective way to secure your server, protect your data, and ensure the integrity of your home network.
What is the Plex Security Vulnerability?
The vulnerability resides within the Plex Media Server software on the Windows operating system. While the full technical details are often withheld to prevent active exploitation, the core issue allows for a dangerous escalation of privileges.
Essentially, the flaw creates an opening that a malicious actor could exploit to run their own commands on your server. The consequences of such an attack could include:
- Data Theft: Gaining access to the files on your server and potentially other connected drives.
- System Control: Taking complete control of the Windows machine running your Plex server.
- Further Network Intrusion: Using the compromised server as a launchpad to attack other devices on your local network.
- Malware Installation: Deploying ransomware, spyware, or other malicious software.
This is not a theoretical risk. All users running an affected version of Plex Media Server on Windows are strongly urged to patch their systems immediately.
How to Check if You Are Affected
This vulnerability specifically impacts users who meet the following criteria:
- Software: You are running Plex Media Server.
- Operating System: Your server is installed on Microsoft Windows.
- Action Required: You must update to version 1.32.6.7557 or a newer version.
If your server version is older than this, your system is vulnerable and exposed to this threat. Users on other operating systems like macOS or Linux are not affected by this particular flaw, but keeping software updated remains a universal best practice.
How to Secure Your Plex Server: A Step-by-Step Guide
Updating your Plex Media Server is a straightforward process. Follow these steps to ensure your system is protected.
- Check Your Current Version: Open your Plex Web App. Click on the wrench icon in the top-right corner to go to Settings. In the left-hand menu under the “Status” section, click on General. Your current server version will be displayed here.
- Download the Update: If your version is older than 1.32.6.7557, visit the official Plex downloads page at Plex.tv/media-server-downloads/. The site should automatically detect your operating system and offer the correct version for download.
- Install the Patch: Run the installer you just downloaded. The installation process will overwrite your old version with the new, patched one without affecting your media libraries or settings.
- Restart and Verify: After the installation is complete, it’s a good practice to restart your Plex Media Server. Once it’s running again, return to the Settings > General page to confirm that your server is now running version 1.32.6.7557 or newer.
Best Practices for Long-Term Server Security
While patching this specific vulnerability is critical, you can take additional steps to harden your server against future threats.
- Enable Automatic Updates: Whenever possible, allow your software to update automatically. This ensures you receive critical security patches as soon as they are released.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Protect your Plex account with a password that is not used for any other service. Consider using a password manager to generate and store complex passwords.
- Limit Remote Access: If you do not need to access your media library from outside your home network, consider disabling the “Remote Access” feature in your Plex settings. This significantly reduces your server’s exposure to external threats.
- Be Cautious with Plugins: Only install plugins from trusted and reputable sources. Outdated or poorly coded plugins can introduce their own security vulnerabilities.
Protecting your digital environment is an ongoing process. By taking immediate action to update your Plex server and following general security best practices, you can continue to enjoy your media library safely and securely.
Source: https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/plex-warns-users-to-patch-security-vulnerability-immediately/