CVE-2024-56240 identifies a Stored Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Pronamic Google Maps plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to 2.3.2. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of user-supplied input during the generation of web pages, which allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that is stored persistently on the server. When other users visit the affected pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers within the context of the vulnerable site. This type of XSS can be exploited to steal cookies, session tokens, or other sensitive information, perform actions on behalf of authenticated users, or deliver further malware. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction beyond visiting the compromised page, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the plugin's popularity in WordPress ecosystems means many websites could be vulnerable. The lack of a CVSS score necessitates an assessment based on the nature of the vulnerability, its impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, and the ease of exploitation. The vulnerability is categorized as high severity due to its potential to compromise user data and site integrity. No official patches or mitigation links were provided at the time of reporting, so users must monitor vendor updates closely. The vulnerability was published on January 2, 2025, with the initial reservation on December 18, 2024.

The impact of CVE-2024-56240 is significant for organizations using the Pronamic Google Maps plugin on their WordPress sites. Successful exploitation can lead to the execution of arbitrary JavaScript in the context of the vulnerable website, enabling attackers to steal sensitive user data such as authentication cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or redirect users to malicious sites. This compromises the confidentiality and integrity of user data and can damage the organization's reputation. Additionally, attackers could use the vulnerability as a foothold for further attacks, including phishing or malware distribution. Since the vulnerability is stored XSS, the malicious payload persists on the server, affecting all visitors to the compromised page. The ease of exploitation without authentication or complex prerequisites increases the risk of widespread abuse. Organizations with customer-facing websites or those handling sensitive user information are particularly at risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency to address the vulnerability.

To mitigate CVE-2024-56240, organizations should immediately check for updates from Pronamic and apply any available patches that address this vulnerability. If no patch is available, temporarily disabling or removing the Pronamic Google Maps plugin can prevent exploitation. Implementing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block malicious input patterns related to XSS can provide interim protection. Site administrators should audit all user-generated content and sanitize inputs rigorously, especially those that are rendered on web pages. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts in browsers. Regularly monitor website logs and user reports for suspicious activity indicative of XSS exploitation. Educate content editors and users about the risks of injecting untrusted content. Finally, maintain a robust backup and incident response plan to quickly recover from any compromise resulting from exploitation.