CVE-2024-9457 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the cssjockey WP Builder plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 3.0.7. The vulnerability stems from insufficient sanitization and output escaping of SVG file uploads, allowing authenticated users with Author-level or higher privileges to embed arbitrary JavaScript code within SVG files. When these SVG files are rendered in the context of the WordPress site, the malicious scripts execute in the browsers of users who view the affected content. This can lead to theft of session cookies, defacement, or further exploitation such as privilege escalation or pivoting within the site. The attack vector is remote and network-based, requiring only authenticated access with Author or higher privileges, which are common in multi-user WordPress environments. The vulnerability does not require any user interaction beyond viewing the malicious SVG content, increasing its risk. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.4 reflects a medium severity rating, with low attack complexity and no user interaction needed, but requiring privileges. No public exploits have been reported to date. The vulnerability highlights the risks of allowing SVG uploads without proper sanitization, as SVGs can contain embedded scripts. The issue is categorized under CWE-79 (Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation).

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9457 is the potential for attackers with Author-level access to inject persistent malicious scripts into WordPress sites using the WP Builder plugin. This can compromise the confidentiality of user sessions and data by enabling session hijacking or cookie theft. Integrity may be affected through content manipulation or defacement. Although availability impact is low, the presence of malicious scripts can damage the reputation of affected websites and lead to loss of user trust. In multi-author WordPress environments, this vulnerability could be exploited by compromised or malicious authors to escalate their influence or attack other users, including administrators. Organizations relying on WP Builder for content creation or site building are at risk, especially if they do not restrict upload permissions or sanitize SVG files. The vulnerability could be leveraged in targeted attacks against high-value WordPress sites, including corporate, governmental, or e-commerce platforms. The lack of known exploits currently limits immediate widespread impact, but the ease of exploitation and common use of WordPress make this a significant concern.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9457, organizations should first update the WP Builder plugin to a patched version once available. Until a patch is released, restrict SVG file uploads to trusted users only, ideally limiting upload permissions to administrators. Implement server-side SVG sanitization tools that remove scripts and potentially dangerous elements from SVG files before allowing upload or rendering. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict script execution and reduce the impact of XSS attacks. Monitor logs and user activity for unusual SVG uploads or script injections. Consider disabling SVG uploads entirely if not required. Educate authors and site managers about the risks of uploading untrusted SVG content. Regularly audit WordPress plugins and their permissions to minimize attack surface. Use web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules targeting XSS payloads in SVG files. Finally, maintain regular backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from any compromise.