CVE-2024-9069 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Graphicsly plugin for WordPress, which supports popular page builders such as Gutenberg, Elementor, Beaver Builder, and WPBakery. The vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically insufficient sanitization and output escaping of SVG file uploads. Authenticated users with Author-level privileges or higher can upload crafted SVG files containing malicious JavaScript code. When these SVG files are rendered on pages viewed by other users, the embedded scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions within the WordPress site. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.0.2. The CVSS 3.1 score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and requiring privileges but no user interaction. The scope is changed (S:C) because the vulnerability affects resources beyond the attacker’s privileges, impacting other users. No known public exploits have been reported yet, but the flaw is significant given the widespread use of WordPress and the plugin’s integration with major page builders. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, highlighting improper input neutralization during web page generation. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation steps.

This vulnerability can lead to unauthorized script execution in the context of the affected WordPress site, compromising the confidentiality and integrity of user sessions and data. Attackers with Author-level access can leverage this flaw to execute arbitrary JavaScript in the browsers of site visitors or administrators, potentially stealing cookies, performing actions on behalf of other users, or defacing the website. While availability is not directly impacted, the trustworthiness and security posture of the site can be severely undermined. Organizations relying on the Graphicsly plugin for content creation and page building may face reputational damage, data breaches, and increased risk of further exploitation if attackers chain this vulnerability with others. The requirement for authenticated access limits the attack surface but does not eliminate risk, especially in multi-author environments or compromised accounts. The vulnerability’s presence in a plugin that integrates with multiple popular page builders increases its potential reach across diverse WordPress deployments worldwide.

Immediate mitigation should include restricting SVG file uploads to trusted users only or disabling SVG uploads entirely until a patch is available. Implement strict input validation and sanitization for SVG files, ensuring that any embedded scripts or potentially malicious content are removed or neutralized before storage or rendering. Site administrators should review user roles and permissions to minimize the number of users with Author-level or higher access. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules targeting XSS payloads in SVG uploads and monitor logs for suspicious upload activity. Regularly update the Graphicsly plugin once the vendor releases a security patch addressing this vulnerability. Additionally, consider using security plugins that provide enhanced content filtering and XSS protection. Educate content creators about the risks of uploading untrusted SVG files and enforce security best practices for user-generated content. Finally, conduct periodic security assessments and penetration testing to detect similar vulnerabilities proactively.