CVE-2024-9071 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79, found in the Easy Demo Importer plugin for WordPress, a tool designed to facilitate one-click demo content imports. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.1.2. It stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically in the handling of SVG file uploads. Authenticated users with Author-level access or higher can upload crafted SVG files containing malicious JavaScript payloads. Due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping, these scripts are stored and later executed in the context of any user who views the SVG file, including administrators or other site users. This can lead to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the victim. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and requiring privileges but no user interaction. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity but not availability. No patches or official fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. However, the risk remains significant for sites that allow SVG uploads and have multiple authenticated users. The vulnerability highlights the risks of insufficient input validation in web applications, especially with file types like SVG that can embed scripts.

The impact of CVE-2024-9071 is primarily on the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites. Successful exploitation allows attackers with Author-level privileges to inject persistent malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of users who access the SVG files. This can lead to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions such as content modification or user account manipulation, and potential lateral movement within the site. While availability is not directly affected, the reputational damage and potential data breaches can be severe. Organizations relying on the Easy Demo Importer plugin, especially those with multiple content contributors or editors, face increased risk of internal threat exploitation or compromised user accounts. The vulnerability can also be leveraged to implant backdoors or conduct phishing attacks targeting site administrators. Given WordPress's widespread use globally, the scope of affected systems is broad, increasing the potential scale of impact.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9071, organizations should first check for any official patches or updates from the plugin vendor and apply them immediately once available. In the absence of patches, restrict or disable SVG file uploads within the WordPress environment, as SVGs are a common vector for XSS attacks. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all uploaded files, ensuring that SVG content is sanitized to remove any embedded scripts or potentially dangerous elements. Employ a Web Application Firewall (WAF) configured to detect and block malicious SVG payloads and suspicious script injections. Limit user privileges by enforcing the principle of least privilege, ensuring only trusted users have Author-level or higher access. Monitor logs and user activities for unusual behavior related to file uploads or script execution. Additionally, educate content contributors about the risks of uploading untrusted files and maintain regular backups to enable recovery from potential compromises. Consider using security plugins that specialize in scanning and sanitizing uploaded content.