CVE-2024-13548 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79 found in the Power Ups for Elementor plugin for WordPress. This plugin extends Elementor’s functionality, widely used for building WordPress websites. The vulnerability exists in the 'magic-button' shortcode, which fails to properly sanitize and escape user-supplied attributes before rendering them on web pages. Authenticated attackers with contributor-level or higher privileges can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages via the shortcode. Because the injected scripts are stored persistently, they execute every time a user accesses the affected page, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing cookies, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of users. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond page access and does not require elevated privileges beyond contributor-level access, making it moderately easy to exploit within compromised environments. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.4 reflects a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required, no user interaction, and a scope change due to impact on other components. No patches or official fixes are currently linked, and no public exploits have been reported, but the risk remains significant for sites using this plugin without mitigation. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output encoding in WordPress plugins, especially those that accept user-generated content or attributes.

The impact of CVE-2024-13548 is primarily on the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites and their users. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the context of the vulnerable site, enabling session hijacking, credential theft, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites. This can lead to unauthorized access to user accounts, data leakage, and erosion of user trust. Since the vulnerability requires contributor-level access, attackers must first compromise or have legitimate access to such accounts, which is common in collaborative environments. The scope of affected systems includes any WordPress site using the Power Ups for Elementor plugin up to version 1.2.2, which may be widespread given Elementor's popularity. The vulnerability does not affect availability directly but can cause reputational damage and potential regulatory consequences if user data is compromised. Organizations with multi-user WordPress environments, especially those allowing contributor roles, are at higher risk. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of future attacks. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk that can facilitate further attacks if leveraged effectively.

To mitigate CVE-2024-13548, organizations should first check for and apply any available updates or patches from the plugin vendor once released. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only, minimizing the risk of malicious shortcode injection. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block suspicious shortcode attributes or script injections can provide temporary protection. Site owners should audit existing pages for injected scripts or unusual shortcode usage and remove any malicious content. Employing security plugins that sanitize user inputs and enforce strict content policies can reduce exploitation chances. Additionally, educating content contributors about safe practices and monitoring user activities for anomalies can help detect early signs of exploitation. Developers maintaining the plugin should update the code to properly sanitize and escape all user-supplied attributes in the 'magic-button' shortcode, following WordPress security best practices. Regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on user-generated content features are recommended to identify similar issues proactively.