CVE-2024-4361 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79 found in the Page Builder by SiteOrigin plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 2.29.15. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes within the 'siteorigin_widget' shortcode, which is used to embed widgets on WordPress pages. Authenticated attackers with contributor-level privileges or higher can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages or posts. Because the malicious script is stored persistently in the website content, it executes in the context of any user who views the infected page, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing cookies, or performing unauthorized actions on behalf of users. The attack vector is remote over the network, with low attack complexity, but requires authentication at contributor level, which is a common role in WordPress environments. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of user data and site content but does not impact availability. No known public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be addressed promptly. The plugin is widely used in WordPress sites globally, increasing the potential attack surface. The lack of patch links suggests that users must monitor vendor updates or apply manual mitigations until an official fix is released.

The impact of CVE-2024-4361 is significant for organizations using the Page Builder by SiteOrigin plugin on WordPress sites. Successful exploitation allows attackers with contributor-level access to inject persistent malicious scripts, which execute in the browsers of site visitors and administrators. This can lead to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information such as authentication cookies, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, defacement of website content, and potential spread of malware. Since contributor-level access is often granted to content creators or editors, the risk of insider threats or compromised accounts is elevated. The vulnerability compromises the confidentiality and integrity of site data and user information but does not directly affect availability. Organizations relying on affected WordPress sites for business operations, e-commerce, or customer engagement may suffer reputational damage, data breaches, and regulatory consequences if exploited. The global reach of WordPress and the popularity of this plugin mean a broad attack surface, particularly for small to medium enterprises and content-heavy websites.

To mitigate CVE-2024-4361, organizations should take the following specific actions: 1) Immediately restrict contributor-level permissions to trusted users only and audit existing user roles for unnecessary privileges. 2) Monitor and review all content submissions involving the 'siteorigin_widget' shortcode for suspicious or unexpected input. 3) Apply any official patches or updates from SiteOrigin as soon as they become available; if no patch exists yet, consider temporarily disabling the plugin or the vulnerable shortcode functionality. 4) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block common XSS payloads targeting the shortcode parameters. 5) Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts on affected sites. 6) Educate site administrators and contributors about the risks of XSS and safe content practices. 7) Regularly back up website data to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8) Conduct security scans and penetration tests focusing on plugin vulnerabilities and user input sanitization. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on user role management, shortcode monitoring, and layered defenses specific to this vulnerability.