CVE-2025-11868 identifies a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability in the everviz plugin for WordPress, which provides interactive charts, maps, and tables. The vulnerability exists because the plugin fails to properly sanitize or escape user input passed via the `everviz` shortcode attributes, specifically the `type` and `hash` parameters. When these attributes are used to build a `<div id=...>` element, malicious scripts can be injected if crafted input is provided. This flaw allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to embed arbitrary JavaScript code into pages or posts. Since the malicious script is stored in the WordPress database, it executes every time a user accesses the infected page, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing cookies, or performing actions on behalf of the user. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond visiting the page and has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.4, reflecting medium severity with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and privileges required. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the flaw poses a significant risk in environments with multiple contributors. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.1 of the everviz plugin. The lack of proper output encoding and input validation is a classic CWE-79 issue, emphasizing the need for secure coding practices in plugin development.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized script execution on WordPress sites, risking the confidentiality and integrity of user sessions and data. Attackers could hijack administrator or editor accounts, deface websites, or inject further malware, undermining trust and potentially causing reputational damage. Organizations relying on WordPress for public-facing or internal content management with multiple contributors are particularly vulnerable. The medium severity score indicates a moderate risk, but the impact could escalate if attackers leverage the vulnerability to pivot into more critical systems or exfiltrate sensitive information. Given the widespread use of WordPress in Europe, especially in sectors like media, education, and government, the threat could disrupt services and lead to compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

1. Immediately audit user roles and restrict contributor-level access to trusted personnel only. 2. Monitor and review all content created with the everviz shortcode for suspicious or unexpected input. 3. Apply strict input validation and output encoding in any custom shortcode implementations or overrides. 4. Disable or remove the everviz plugin if it is not essential until a security patch is released. 5. Follow vendor advisories closely and apply updates or patches as soon as they become available. 6. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with rules to detect and block XSS payloads targeting shortcode attributes. 7. Educate content creators about the risks of injecting untrusted code or scripts. 8. Conduct regular security scans and penetration tests focusing on WordPress plugins and user-generated content.