CVE-2024-12624 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79, found in the Sina Extension for Elementor plugin for WordPress, specifically in the Sina Image Differ widget. This vulnerability arises from insufficient input sanitization and output escaping of user-supplied attributes, which allows an attacker with contributor-level or higher access to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages generated by the plugin. Because the malicious script is stored persistently, it executes every time a user accesses the affected page, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing cookies, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of users. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 3.5.91. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network, low attack complexity, requiring privileges, no user interaction, and scope change. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the risk remains significant due to the widespread use of WordPress and Elementor plugins. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output encoding in web applications, especially those that allow user-generated content. The flaw can be exploited by authenticated users with contributor or higher privileges, which means that attackers must first gain some level of access to the WordPress backend. Once exploited, the attacker can execute arbitrary scripts in the context of other users, including administrators, potentially leading to privilege escalation or data theft. The lack of available patches at the time of publication means that mitigation relies on access control and monitoring until an update is released.

The impact of CVE-2024-12624 is significant for organizations using the Sina Extension for Elementor plugin, as it enables stored XSS attacks that can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of user data. Attackers can hijack user sessions, deface websites, or conduct further attacks such as phishing or malware distribution. Since the vulnerability requires contributor-level access, the risk is elevated in environments with multiple users or weak access controls. The scope of affected systems is broad given the popularity of WordPress and Elementor plugins globally. Exploitation can lead to loss of trust, reputational damage, and potential regulatory consequences if sensitive data is exposed. The vulnerability does not affect availability directly but can indirectly cause service disruption through malicious payloads. Organizations with public-facing WordPress sites that use this plugin are at risk, especially those with collaborative content management workflows. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits once the vulnerability becomes widely known.

To mitigate CVE-2024-12624, organizations should first restrict contributor-level and higher access to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface. Implement strict user role management and audit user activities regularly. Until an official patch is released, consider disabling or removing the Sina Image Differ widget or the entire Sina Extension for Elementor plugin if feasible. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious input patterns related to XSS payloads targeting this plugin. Conduct thorough input validation and output encoding on all user-supplied data within the WordPress environment, especially for plugins that handle dynamic content. Monitor logs for unusual script injections or page modifications. Educate content contributors about the risks of injecting untrusted content. Once a patch becomes available, apply it promptly and verify the fix. Additionally, consider implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts. Regularly update all WordPress plugins and core software to reduce exposure to similar vulnerabilities.