CVE-2024-4458 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability classified under CWE-79, found in the Themesflat Addons For Elementor plugin for WordPress. This plugin extends Elementor page builder functionality with additional widgets. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient sanitization and escaping of URL parameters in multiple widgets, allowing malicious script injection that is stored persistently in the website's content. An attacker with contributor-level or higher privileges can exploit this by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages, which executes in the context of any user who views the affected page. This can lead to theft of session cookies, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, or defacement of the site. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 2.1.1. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges at the contributor level, no user interaction, and a scope change due to impact on other users. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been observed in the wild. The vulnerability is significant because WordPress powers a large portion of the web, and the Elementor plugin is widely used, making this a notable risk for many websites that allow contributor-level access.

The impact of CVE-2024-4458 is primarily on the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the browsers of site visitors or administrators, potentially leading to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions, or defacement. Since the vulnerability requires contributor-level access, attackers must first compromise or have legitimate access to such an account, which is common in multi-user WordPress environments. The scope of impact extends to all users who visit the injected pages, including administrators, increasing the risk of privilege escalation or site takeover. Although availability is not directly affected, the reputational damage and potential data breaches can be severe. Organizations relying on this plugin for their websites face risks of data leakage, user trust erosion, and compliance violations if exploited. The lack of known exploits in the wild suggests limited active exploitation currently, but the medium severity and ease of exploitation with low complexity make it a credible threat.

To mitigate CVE-2024-4458, organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations for the presence of the Themesflat Addons For Elementor plugin and verify the version in use. Since no official patch is currently linked, administrators should consider the following steps: 1) Restrict contributor-level access strictly to trusted users and review user roles to minimize unnecessary privileges. 2) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious input patterns targeting URL parameters in the affected widgets. 3) Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts. 4) Regularly monitor website content and logs for signs of injected scripts or anomalous behavior. 5) Stay updated with vendor announcements for patches or updates addressing this vulnerability and apply them promptly once available. 6) Consider temporarily disabling or removing the plugin if feasible until a fix is released. 7) Educate site administrators and contributors about the risks of XSS and safe content management practices. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on access control, detection, and containment specific to this vulnerability.