CVE-2024-12463 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability identified in the Arena.IM – Live Blogging for real-time events plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 0.3.0. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically in the 'arena_embed_amp' shortcode, where user-supplied attributes are not adequately sanitized or escaped before being rendered. This allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code that is stored persistently and executed in the context of any user who views the affected page. The attack vector is remote and requires low complexity, as no user interaction beyond page access is needed. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity by enabling theft of session cookies, user impersonation, or unauthorized actions within the WordPress site. The scope is limited to sites using the vulnerable plugin, but the impact can be significant in multi-user blogging environments. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting network attack vector, low complexity, privileges required, no user interaction, and a scope change due to affecting other users. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the vulnerability is published and should be addressed promptly.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-12463 is the potential compromise of user confidentiality and integrity within affected WordPress sites. Attackers with contributor-level access can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of site visitors, potentially stealing authentication cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information. This can lead to account takeover, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of legitimate users. Although availability is not directly affected, the trustworthiness and security of the site are compromised, which can damage organizational reputation and user confidence. For organizations relying on Arena.IM for real-time event blogging, this vulnerability could facilitate targeted attacks against contributors and readers, especially in environments with multiple authenticated users. The requirement for authenticated access limits exposure but does not eliminate risk, particularly in larger organizations or communities with many contributors. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not preclude future exploitation. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk that can lead to significant security breaches if exploited.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12463, organizations should first check for any official patches or updates from the Arena.IM plugin developers and apply them immediately once available. In the absence of patches, administrators should restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only and review existing user privileges to minimize the number of accounts that can exploit this vulnerability. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block suspicious script injections in shortcode parameters can provide an additional layer of defense. Site administrators should also enable Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts. Regularly auditing plugin usage and scanning for XSS vulnerabilities using automated tools can help identify exploitation attempts. Additionally, educating contributors about safe input practices and monitoring logs for unusual activity related to shortcode usage can reduce risk. Finally, consider disabling or replacing the Arena.IM plugin with a more secure alternative if timely patches are not forthcoming.