CVE-2024-9848 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Product Customizer Light plugin for WordPress, developed by k2servicecom. This vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.0.0 due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically related to SVG file uploads. The plugin fails to sufficiently sanitize and escape SVG content, allowing authenticated users with Author-level or higher privileges to upload SVG files containing malicious JavaScript code. When any user accesses a page that loads the malicious SVG, the embedded script executes in the context of the victim’s browser. This can lead to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability requires the attacker to have authenticated access with at least Author privileges, which limits exploitation to insiders or compromised accounts. The CVSS 3.1 score of 6.4 reflects a medium severity, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required, no user interaction, and a scope change affecting confidentiality and integrity but not availability. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk to WordPress sites using this plugin, especially those allowing multiple authors or contributors. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation steps.

The primary impact of CVE-2024-9848 is the potential for stored XSS attacks that compromise the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the browsers of users who view the malicious SVG files, potentially leading to session hijacking, theft of sensitive information, unauthorized actions on behalf of users, or distribution of malware. Since the vulnerability requires Author-level access, attackers must first gain or already possess elevated privileges, which could be achieved through credential compromise or insider threats. The scope change in the CVSS vector indicates that the vulnerability affects resources beyond the initially vulnerable component, potentially impacting the entire site or user base. Organizations relying on this plugin for product customization risk reputational damage, data breaches, and unauthorized administrative actions if exploited. The absence of known exploits in the wild reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as attackers often develop exploits after public disclosure. The vulnerability's impact is magnified in environments with multiple content creators or contributors, increasing the attack surface.

To mitigate CVE-2024-9848 effectively, organizations should first check for and apply any available patches or updates from the plugin vendor. In the absence of an official patch, administrators should consider disabling or removing the Product Customizer Light plugin until a fix is released. Restricting SVG file uploads is critical; implement strict file type validation and sanitize SVG content using security-focused libraries that remove or neutralize embedded scripts. Limit user roles and permissions to the minimum necessary, especially restricting Author-level or higher privileges to trusted users only. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block malicious SVG payloads or suspicious script injections. Monitor logs for unusual upload activity or changes in SVG files. Educate content creators about the risks of uploading untrusted files. Additionally, consider implementing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to reduce the impact of any injected scripts by restricting script execution sources. Regularly audit user accounts and permissions to prevent privilege escalation that could facilitate exploitation.