CVE-2024-12262 is a reflected Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the motovnet Ebook Store plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 5.8001. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically insufficient sanitization and escaping of the 'step' parameter. This allows unauthenticated attackers to craft malicious URLs containing JavaScript payloads that, when clicked by a victim, execute in the context of the vulnerable website. The attack vector requires no authentication but does require user interaction, such as clicking a malicious link. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity by enabling theft of session cookies, credentials, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. The CVSS v3.1 score is 6.1, reflecting medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and scope changed due to potential impact beyond the vulnerable component. No known public exploits currently exist, but the widespread use of WordPress and the plugin increases risk. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output encoding in web applications to prevent script injection attacks.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-12262 is the potential compromise of user confidentiality and integrity on websites running the vulnerable motovnet Ebook Store plugin. Attackers can steal session cookies, enabling account hijacking, or perform actions on behalf of users without their consent. Although availability is not directly affected, the trustworthiness of the affected websites can be undermined, leading to reputational damage and potential loss of customers. Organizations operating WordPress sites with this plugin may face increased risk of targeted phishing campaigns leveraging the vulnerability to deliver malicious payloads. The medium CVSS score indicates a moderate risk, but the ease of exploitation via social engineering and the broad user base of WordPress sites amplify the threat. If exploited at scale, this vulnerability could facilitate widespread credential theft and unauthorized access to user accounts, especially in e-commerce or content distribution contexts where the plugin is used.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12262, organizations should immediately update the motovnet Ebook Store plugin to a patched version once available. In the absence of an official patch, implement strict input validation on the 'step' parameter to reject or sanitize suspicious input. Employ robust output encoding/escaping techniques to neutralize any injected scripts before rendering content to users. Utilize Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block malicious payloads targeting the 'step' parameter. Educate users and administrators about the risks of clicking unsolicited or suspicious links, especially those referencing the vulnerable plugin. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on input handling in WordPress plugins. Additionally, consider disabling or replacing the plugin if it is not essential, reducing the attack surface. Monitoring logs for unusual URL parameters or spikes in suspicious traffic can help detect exploitation attempts early.