CVE-2024-5901 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin for WordPress, specifically within the Image Grid widget. This vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, classified under CWE-79. The root cause is insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes, allowing authenticated attackers with contributor-level access or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages. These scripts are stored persistently and executed whenever any user accesses the affected page, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions performed in the context of the victim's browser session. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.62.2 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, indicating a medium severity with the vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:N, meaning the attack can be performed remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires privileges (contributor or higher), no user interaction, and impacts confidentiality and integrity with a changed scope. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk to WordPress sites using this plugin, especially those that allow contributor-level users to add or edit content. The vulnerability is notable because contributor roles are common in multi-author WordPress sites, and the stored nature of the XSS can affect all visitors to the compromised page. The lack of patch links suggests a patch may not yet be available or publicly announced, increasing the urgency for mitigation.

The impact of CVE-2024-5901 is significant for organizations running WordPress sites with the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin installed, particularly versions up to 1.62.2. Since the vulnerability allows stored XSS, attackers with contributor-level access can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of any users visiting the compromised pages. This can lead to theft of session cookies, enabling account takeover or privilege escalation, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, defacement, or distribution of malware. The confidentiality and integrity of user data and site content can be compromised. While availability is not directly impacted, the reputational damage and potential for further exploitation (such as pivoting to more severe attacks) can be substantial. Organizations with multi-author blogs or community sites where contributor roles are common are at higher risk. The vulnerability can also facilitate lateral movement within the site or network if attackers leverage stolen credentials or session tokens. Given the widespread use of WordPress globally, the potential attack surface is large, affecting small businesses, enterprises, and public sector websites alike.

To mitigate CVE-2024-5901, organizations should immediately assess their WordPress installations for the presence of the SiteOrigin Widgets Bundle plugin and determine the version in use. If an updated patched version is available, apply it promptly. In the absence of an official patch, consider temporarily disabling or removing the vulnerable Image Grid widget or the entire plugin to prevent exploitation. Restrict contributor-level permissions by reviewing user roles and limiting the ability to add or edit content to trusted users only. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block common XSS payloads targeting the affected plugin. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to reduce the impact of injected scripts. Conduct regular security audits and scanning for malicious scripts or injected content on pages using the Image Grid widget. Educate site administrators and contributors about the risks of XSS and safe content practices. Monitor site logs for suspicious activity indicative of exploitation attempts. Finally, maintain a robust backup and incident response plan to recover quickly if exploitation occurs.