CVE-2024-12501 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability identified in the Simple Locator plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 2.0.3. The vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of user-supplied input within the plugin's shortcodes, specifically due to insufficient input sanitization and lack of proper output escaping. Authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages via shortcode attributes. When other users visit these compromised pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, unauthorized actions, or data theft. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79 and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.4, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, and privileges at the contributor level, but does not require user interaction. The scope is changed since the vulnerability affects other users viewing the injected content. No public exploits or patches have been reported as of the publication date, but the risk remains significant for sites using this plugin. The vulnerability underscores the importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding in WordPress plugin development to prevent stored XSS attacks.

The impact of CVE-2024-12501 is primarily on the confidentiality and integrity of user data and site content. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the affected website, which can lead to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information such as cookies or credentials, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites. Because the vulnerability is stored XSS, the malicious payload persists on the site and affects all users who access the compromised pages, amplifying the potential damage. Although availability is not directly impacted, the trustworthiness and reputation of the affected websites can be severely damaged. Organizations relying on the Simple Locator plugin for location-based services on WordPress sites face risks of targeted attacks, especially if contributor-level accounts are compromised or misused. This can lead to broader security incidents, including lateral movement within the organization’s web infrastructure or exploitation of user trust. The medium CVSS score reflects the need for timely remediation to prevent exploitation, especially in environments with multiple contributors and high user traffic.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12501, organizations should immediately update the Simple Locator plugin to a patched version once available from the vendor. Until a patch is released, administrators should restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only and audit existing contributor accounts for suspicious activity. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block common XSS payloads can provide temporary protection. Site owners should also review and sanitize all shortcode attributes manually if feasible, removing any suspicious or untrusted inputs. Employing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can help reduce the impact of injected scripts by restricting script execution sources. Regular security scanning and monitoring for unusual script injections or page modifications are recommended. Additionally, educating contributors about secure input practices and the risks of injecting untrusted content can reduce the likelihood of exploitation. Finally, maintain regular backups of site content to enable quick recovery if an attack occurs.