CVE-2024-11885 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79, found in the NinjaTeam Chat for Telegram plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of user-supplied input in the 'njtele_button' shortcode, which fails to adequately sanitize and escape attributes before rendering them on web pages. As a result, authenticated users with contributor-level privileges or higher can inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages. When other users access these pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially compromising session tokens, redirecting users, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of the victim. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including version 1.0 of the plugin. The CVSS 3.1 score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, privileges (authenticated contributor), no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality and integrity with a scope change (the vulnerability can affect other users beyond the attacker). No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. The plugin is used on WordPress sites that integrate Telegram chat functionality, making it a targeted vector for attackers aiming to leverage XSS to escalate privileges or steal sensitive data within affected websites.

The primary impact of this vulnerability is the potential for attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of affected WordPress sites, leading to session hijacking, credential theft, defacement, or unauthorized actions performed with the victim's privileges. Since the vulnerability requires contributor-level authentication, it is particularly dangerous in environments where multiple users have such access, including editorial teams or community contributors. The scope change means that the attacker can affect other users beyond their own session, increasing the risk of widespread compromise. Organizations relying on the NinjaTeam Chat for Telegram plugin may face reputational damage, data breaches, and unauthorized access to sensitive information. Additionally, attackers could use this vulnerability as a foothold for further attacks within the network or to distribute malware. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and could be weaponized in the future.

To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should first check for updates or patches from the NinjaTeam vendor and apply them as soon as they become available. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only and audit existing users for unnecessary privileges. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block malicious scripts targeting the 'njtele_button' shortcode can provide temporary protection. Additionally, site administrators can disable or remove the NinjaTeam Chat for Telegram plugin if it is not essential. Reviewing and sanitizing all user-generated content before rendering it on pages is critical; custom filters or plugins that enforce strict input validation and output escaping can help. Monitoring logs for unusual activity related to shortcode usage and user behavior may also aid in early detection of exploitation attempts. Finally, educating contributors about safe content practices and the risks of injecting scripts can reduce accidental exposure.