CVE-2024-8488 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79, affecting the ays-pro Survey Maker plugin for WordPress up to version 4.9.7. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically in survey fields where user-supplied data is insufficiently sanitized and output escaping is inadequate. This flaw allows authenticated attackers with administrator-level privileges or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into survey pages. The malicious scripts execute whenever any user accesses the compromised page, potentially enabling session hijacking, privilege escalation, or other malicious activities targeting user confidentiality and integrity. The vulnerability is limited to WordPress multi-site installations or those where the unfiltered_html capability is disabled, restricting the attack surface. Exploitation does not require user interaction but does require high-level privileges, making it less accessible to lower-privileged users. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.4, reflecting medium severity due to the attack complexity and limited impact scope. No public exploits have been reported yet, and no official patches are currently linked, indicating a need for vendor response or user-applied mitigations. The vulnerability highlights the importance of rigorous input validation and output encoding in WordPress plugins, especially those handling user-generated content in multi-site contexts.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-8488 is on confidentiality and integrity within affected WordPress multi-site environments using the ays-pro Survey Maker plugin. An attacker with administrator privileges can inject malicious scripts that execute in the context of other users visiting the infected survey pages. This can lead to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of other users. Although availability is not directly affected, the breach of confidentiality and integrity can have cascading effects, such as unauthorized data access or manipulation. The requirement for administrator-level privileges limits the likelihood of widespread exploitation but raises concerns about insider threats or compromised admin accounts. Organizations relying on multi-site WordPress installations with this plugin are at risk of targeted attacks that could undermine trust and data security. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the potential for future attacks, especially if patches are delayed. Overall, the vulnerability poses a moderate risk that could be leveraged in targeted campaigns against organizations using this plugin in multi-site configurations.

To mitigate CVE-2024-8488, organizations should first verify if they use the ays-pro Survey Maker plugin in multi-site WordPress installations or where unfiltered_html is disabled. Immediate steps include restricting administrator access to trusted personnel and monitoring for suspicious activities within the WordPress admin dashboard. Since no official patch is currently linked, users should consider disabling the plugin or limiting its use until a vendor update is available. Implementing Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious script injections targeting survey fields can provide temporary protection. Additionally, administrators should enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication, to reduce the risk of credential compromise. Regularly auditing plugin configurations and user permissions can help identify potential abuse. When a patch is released, prompt application is critical. Finally, educating administrators about the risks of XSS and safe content management practices will reduce the likelihood of exploitation.