CVE-2024-4633 identifies a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Slider & Popup Builder by Depicter WordPress plugin, specifically in the addExtraMimeType function. This vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation (CWE-79), where the plugin fails to adequately sanitize and escape user-supplied data before rendering it on pages. Authenticated attackers with author-level permissions or higher can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript payloads into pages managed by the plugin. When other users visit these compromised pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or distribution of malware. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 3.2.1 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and impacting confidentiality and integrity with a scope change. No official patches or fixes have been linked yet, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of slider and popup plugins, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to websites that have this plugin installed and active, especially those allowing multiple authors or contributors. Attackers gaining author-level access could leverage this vulnerability to compromise site visitors or escalate attacks within the site environment.

The impact of CVE-2024-4633 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 theft of session cookies, user credentials, or other sensitive information. It can also facilitate defacement, phishing, or distribution of malware to site visitors. Since the vulnerability requires author-level access, the initial compromise vector may involve social engineering or credential theft to gain such privileges. Once exploited, attackers can target site administrators or visitors, potentially leading to broader compromise of the website or connected systems. Organizations relying on this plugin for marketing or user engagement may suffer reputational damage and loss of user trust. The vulnerability does not affect availability directly but can lead to significant operational disruption if exploited at scale. Given the plugin’s use in creating sliders, popups, and modals, the attack surface includes any page where these elements are displayed, increasing the scope of potential victims.

To mitigate CVE-2024-4633, organizations should first check for updates or patches from the plugin vendor and apply them immediately once available. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should restrict author-level permissions strictly to trusted users and audit existing users for unnecessary privileges. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block common XSS payloads can provide temporary protection. Site owners should also enable Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts. Regularly scanning the website for injected scripts or unusual content in slider or popup elements can help detect exploitation attempts. Additionally, monitoring user activity logs for suspicious behavior by authors or contributors can preempt attacks. Educating users with author privileges about phishing and credential security reduces the risk of initial compromise. Finally, consider disabling or replacing the vulnerable plugin with a more secure alternative if immediate patching is not feasible.