CVE-2024-9454 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the PriPre plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions up to and including 0.4.11. The root cause is insufficient sanitization and escaping of SVG files uploaded through the plugin, which allows authenticated users with Author-level privileges or higher to embed arbitrary JavaScript code within SVG files. When these SVG files are accessed by any user, the malicious scripts execute in the context of the victim's browser, potentially leading to session hijacking, data theft, or unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability leverages CWE-79, which involves improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting a medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, requiring privileges but no user interaction, and impacting confidentiality and integrity with a scope change. No patches are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild, indicating that exploitation may require some effort or is not yet widespread. The vulnerability affects all versions of the PriPre plugin up to 0.4.11, which is used in WordPress environments that allow SVG uploads, a common vector for XSS due to SVG's XML-based format allowing embedded scripts. Since the attack requires authenticated access at Author level or above, the threat is limited to environments where such user roles exist and can upload SVG files. However, once exploited, the impact can extend to any user viewing the infected SVG content.

The impact of CVE-2024-9454 is significant for organizations using the PriPre WordPress plugin, especially those that allow multiple users with Author-level or higher privileges to upload SVG files. Successful exploitation can lead to the execution of arbitrary JavaScript in the browsers of users who view the malicious SVG, potentially resulting in session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, and further compromise of the website or connected systems. This can damage organizational reputation, lead to data breaches, and facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation or malware distribution. Since WordPress powers a large portion of websites globally, and SVG uploads are common in content-rich sites, the scope of affected systems can be broad. However, the requirement for authenticated access limits the attack surface to environments with multiple trusted users or compromised accounts. The vulnerability does not impact availability directly but compromises confidentiality and integrity, which can have cascading effects on business operations and user trust.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9454, organizations should immediately restrict or disable SVG file uploads via the PriPre plugin 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. Limit the number of users with Author-level or higher privileges to reduce the risk of insider threats or account compromise. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of inline scripts and reduce the impact of XSS attacks. Monitor logs for unusual SVG upload activity and review user permissions regularly. Once the vendor releases a security update or patch, apply it promptly. Additionally, consider using security plugins that scan for malicious content and enforce secure coding practices in custom plugins or themes. Educate users about the risks of uploading untrusted SVG files and enforce multi-factor authentication to protect privileged accounts.