CVE-2024-9614 is a reflected cross-site scripting vulnerability identified in the Constant Contact Forms by MailMunch plugin for WordPress, present in all versions up to and including 2.1.2. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's use of the WordPress add_query_arg function without proper escaping or sanitization of URL parameters. This improper neutralization of input (CWE-79) allows an unauthenticated attacker to craft malicious URLs containing arbitrary JavaScript code. When a victim clicks such a URL, the injected script executes within the context of the vulnerable website, potentially allowing theft of cookies, session tokens, or execution of unauthorized actions on behalf of the user. The attack requires user interaction (clicking a link) but no authentication or special privileges. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality and integrity of user data but does not impact availability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.1, reflecting a network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, user interaction required, and a scope change due to the potential for script execution in the user's browser context. No patches or fixes are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the published date (November 13, 2024). The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and output encoding in web applications, especially plugins widely used in content management systems like WordPress.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9614 is on the confidentiality and integrity of users interacting with websites using the vulnerable MailMunch plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to theft of session cookies, enabling attackers to hijack user sessions and impersonate victims. It can also facilitate unauthorized actions such as changing user settings or injecting further malicious content. Although availability is not directly affected, the reputational damage and potential data breaches can have significant operational and financial consequences for organizations. Since the vulnerability requires user interaction, the risk is somewhat mitigated but remains substantial, especially for high-traffic sites or those with less security-aware user bases. Organizations relying on this plugin for lead generation or contact forms may face increased phishing or social engineering risks. The lack of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate the risk of future attacks, especially as proof-of-concept exploits may emerge. Overall, the vulnerability poses a medium risk but can be leveraged as part of more complex attack chains targeting WordPress sites globally.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9614, organizations should immediately update the Constant Contact Forms by MailMunch plugin to a patched version once available. In the absence of an official patch, administrators can implement manual mitigations such as applying strict input validation and output encoding on all URL parameters processed by the plugin, particularly those handled by add_query_arg. Employing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block reflected XSS payloads targeting the plugin's endpoints can reduce exposure. Additionally, security teams should educate users to avoid clicking suspicious or unsolicited links, especially those purporting to come from trusted websites using this plugin. Monitoring web server logs for unusual query parameters or repeated suspicious requests can help detect attempted exploitation. Finally, adopting Content Security Policy (CSP) headers can limit the impact of injected scripts by restricting script execution sources, providing an additional defense layer.