CVE-2024-11360 is a reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Page Parts plugin for WordPress, developed by husobj. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.4.3 due to the improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically related to the use of the WordPress function remove_query_arg without proper escaping of URL parameters. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into web pages by crafting malicious URLs. When a victim clicks such a URL, the injected script executes in the context of the vulnerable site, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or other malicious actions affecting the confidentiality and integrity of user data. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation, aka Cross-site Scripting). The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.1, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, but requiring user interaction. The scope is changed (S:C), indicating the vulnerability can affect components beyond the vulnerable plugin itself. Currently, no public exploits or active exploitation have been reported. The vulnerability affects all versions of the Page Parts plugin up to 1.4.3, which is used in WordPress environments to manage page content parts. The lack of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, so users must rely on mitigations or updates from the vendor.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is on the confidentiality and integrity of user data and sessions. Successful exploitation can lead to theft of authentication cookies, enabling attackers to impersonate users, including administrators, potentially resulting in unauthorized access and control over the WordPress site. This can further lead to website defacement, distribution of malware, or phishing attacks targeting site visitors. Although availability is not directly impacted, the reputational damage and potential data breaches can have significant operational and financial consequences for organizations. Given WordPress’s dominant market share in website content management, a large number of websites worldwide could be affected if they use the vulnerable plugin version. The requirement for user interaction (clicking a malicious link) somewhat limits exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with high user traffic or targeted phishing campaigns. The vulnerability’s medium severity indicates that while it is not the most critical, it still poses a meaningful threat that should be addressed promptly.

Organizations should immediately verify if they are using the Page Parts plugin (husobj) and identify the version installed. If running version 1.4.3 or earlier, they should monitor for vendor updates or patches and apply them as soon as they become available. In the absence of an official patch, administrators can implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious URL parameters or script injection attempts targeting the vulnerable endpoints. Additionally, applying strict Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can help mitigate the impact of injected scripts by restricting the execution of unauthorized JavaScript. Educating users about the risks of clicking unsolicited or suspicious links can reduce the likelihood of successful exploitation. Regularly scanning websites with security tools to detect XSS vulnerabilities and anomalous behavior is recommended. Finally, consider disabling or replacing the plugin with a more secure alternative if timely patching is not feasible.