CVE-2024-13465 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the aBlocks – WordPress Gutenberg Blocks plugin, specifically within the "Table Of Content" block's "markerView" attribute. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, classified under CWE-79. The root cause is insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, allowing authenticated users with Contributor-level access or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages. When other users access these compromised pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to and including 1.6.1. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, indicating a medium severity level, with attack vector being network-based, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and impacting confidentiality and integrity with no effect on availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability's presence in a popular WordPress plugin makes it a notable risk. The plugin is used in WordPress environments that employ Gutenberg blocks for content management, and the vulnerability specifically targets the functionality related to the Table Of Content block. The vulnerability's scope is limited to sites where users have Contributor or higher privileges, which means that sites with strict user role management may reduce risk. However, many WordPress sites allow multiple contributors, increasing exposure. The lack of an official patch at the time of reporting necessitates interim mitigations to prevent exploitation.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-13465 is the potential for stored XSS attacks that compromise the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites. Attackers with Contributor-level access can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of site visitors or administrators, enabling session hijacking, theft of authentication tokens, defacement, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users. This can lead to data breaches, loss of user trust, and reputational damage. Since the vulnerability does not affect availability, denial-of-service is not a direct concern. However, the exploitation can facilitate further attacks, including privilege escalation or malware distribution. Organizations relying on the aBlocks plugin for content management are at risk, especially if they allow multiple contributors or editors. The medium severity rating reflects that exploitation requires authenticated access but no user interaction, making it moderately accessible to attackers who have compromised or created contributor accounts. The widespread use of WordPress globally means that many organizations, including businesses, media outlets, and government websites, could be affected if they use this plugin. The absence of known exploits in the wild suggests the threat is not yet actively exploited but could become so once public exploit code is available.

To mitigate CVE-2024-13465, organizations should first verify if they use the aBlocks – WordPress Gutenberg Blocks plugin and identify the versions deployed. Until an official patch is released, administrators should restrict Contributor-level access to trusted users only and review existing contributor accounts for suspicious activity. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block XSS payloads targeting the "markerView" attribute can provide temporary protection. Site administrators should also enable Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit script execution sources and reduce the impact of injected scripts. Regularly audit and sanitize user-generated content, especially in the Table Of Content block, to detect malicious inputs. Monitoring logs for unusual behavior or script injections can help identify exploitation attempts early. Once a patch or update is available from the plugin developer, apply it promptly. Additionally, educating contributors about secure content practices and limiting plugin usage to trusted sources can reduce future risks. Backup website data regularly to enable recovery in case of compromise.