CVE-2024-11853 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability identified in the jAlbum Bridge plugin for WordPress, a tool that integrates jAlbum galleries into WordPress sites. The vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically through the 'ar' parameter. This parameter is not sufficiently sanitized or escaped before being rendered in pages, allowing an attacker with Contributor-level or higher privileges to inject arbitrary JavaScript code. Because the injected script is stored persistently, it executes whenever any user accesses the affected page, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing cookies, or performing actions on behalf of users without their consent. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 2.0.15. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity level, with attack vector network-based, low attack complexity, requiring privileges (Contributor or higher), no user interaction, and scope changed due to impact on other users. No public exploits are known currently, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk in multi-user WordPress environments where contributors can be trusted with content creation but not necessarily with security. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79, which covers improper neutralization of input leading to cross-site scripting.

The impact of CVE-2024-11853 on organizations can be significant, especially for websites that rely on the jAlbum Bridge plugin and have multiple contributors. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the affected site, potentially leading to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information such as cookies or credentials, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, defacement of web content, or distribution of malware. Since the vulnerability requires authenticated access at Contributor level or above, it primarily threatens organizations with multiple content creators or editors who may be targeted or compromised. The scope of impact extends beyond the attacker to all users who view the injected pages, increasing the risk of widespread compromise. Although no known exploits are currently reported, the ease of exploitation and the persistent nature of stored XSS make this a credible threat. Organizations with public-facing WordPress sites that use this plugin are at risk of reputational damage, data leakage, and potential regulatory consequences if user data is compromised.

To mitigate CVE-2024-11853, organizations should first check for updates or patches from the vendor mlaza for the jAlbum Bridge plugin and apply them promptly once available. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should consider temporarily disabling or removing the plugin to eliminate the attack surface. Restrict Contributor-level access to trusted users only and review user permissions to minimize the number of users who can inject content. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious input patterns targeting the 'ar' parameter. Conduct regular security audits and code reviews of plugins and custom code to identify similar input validation issues. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the impact of injected scripts by restricting script execution sources. Educate content contributors about the risks of injecting untrusted content and monitor site content for unexpected changes. Finally, maintain regular backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from any exploitation.