CVE-2024-13549 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79, found in the All Bootstrap Blocks plugin for WordPress, specifically within the Accordion widget. This vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, where user-supplied data is not adequately sanitized or escaped before being rendered. Authenticated attackers with Contributor-level access or higher can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages using the vulnerable widget. Because the malicious script is stored persistently, it executes in the context of any user who views the infected page, potentially compromising session tokens, redirecting users, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of victims. The vulnerability affects all plugin versions up to and including 1.3.26. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, requiring privileges (Contributor or above), no user interaction, and a scope change. Although no public exploits are reported yet, the ease of exploitation by authenticated users and the potential for privilege escalation or data theft make this a significant concern. The vulnerability highlights the importance of robust input validation and output encoding in WordPress plugin development to prevent XSS attacks.

The impact of CVE-2024-13549 can be significant for organizations running WordPress sites with the All Bootstrap Blocks plugin installed. Successful exploitation allows attackers with Contributor-level access to inject persistent malicious scripts, which execute in the browsers of any users visiting the compromised pages. This can lead to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, defacement, or distribution of malware. Since Contributor roles are commonly assigned to content creators or editors, the attack surface includes internal users who may be less security-aware. The vulnerability can undermine user trust, damage brand reputation, and potentially lead to data breaches or compliance violations. Although the vulnerability does not directly affect availability, the compromise of integrity and confidentiality can have cascading effects on organizational security. The medium CVSS score reflects the balance between the required privileges and the potential damage. Organizations with high-traffic WordPress sites or those handling sensitive user data are particularly at risk.

To mitigate CVE-2024-13549, organizations should first verify if they use the All Bootstrap Blocks plugin and identify the version installed. Since no official patch links are provided yet, immediate mitigation includes restricting Contributor-level user permissions to trusted individuals only, minimizing the number of users with such access. Implementing a web application firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block common XSS payloads can help reduce exploitation risk. Administrators should audit existing content created via the Accordion widget for suspicious scripts and remove any malicious code. Enforcing strong content security policies (CSP) can limit the impact of injected scripts by restricting script sources. Monitoring logs for unusual activity or changes in page content can provide early detection of exploitation attempts. Once an official patch is released by the vendor, prompt application is critical. Additionally, educating content contributors about safe input practices and the risks of XSS can reduce accidental introduction of malicious content.