CVE-2025-12753 is a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-80, found in the Chart Expert plugin for WordPress developed by sagortouch. The vulnerability exists due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping of user-supplied attributes in the 'pmzez_chart' shortcode. This flaw allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages or posts. When other users access these pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially compromising session tokens, redirecting users to malicious sites, or performing actions on behalf of the victim. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.0 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, indicating a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network, low attack complexity, requiring privileges (PR:L), no user interaction, and scope changed due to impact on other users. No patches or known exploits are currently available. The vulnerability's impact is limited to sites using this plugin and having users with contributor or higher privileges, which is common in multi-author WordPress environments. The stored nature of the XSS increases risk as the malicious payload persists and affects multiple users. Detection requires monitoring for unusual shortcode attribute values or unexpected script execution in page content.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-12753 can be significant, especially for those relying on WordPress sites with multiple contributors or editors. Exploitation could lead to session hijacking, unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, defacement, or distribution of malware via the compromised website. This can damage organizational reputation, lead to data breaches involving user credentials or sensitive information, and cause operational disruptions. Since the vulnerability requires contributor-level access, insider threats or compromised accounts pose a risk. Organizations in sectors such as media, education, government, and e-commerce that use WordPress extensively are particularly vulnerable. The persistent nature of stored XSS means that once exploited, the malicious script can affect all visitors to the infected pages, increasing the scope of impact. Additionally, regulatory requirements like GDPR impose strict data protection obligations, and exploitation could lead to compliance violations and fines if personal data is compromised.

To mitigate CVE-2025-12753, organizations should first check for updates or patches from the plugin vendor and apply them promptly once available. In the absence of patches, restrict contributor-level permissions to trusted users only and review user roles to minimize unnecessary privileges. Implement web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block XSS payloads in shortcode attributes. Conduct regular security audits and monitor WordPress logs for suspicious shortcode usage or unexpected script injections. Employ content security policies (CSP) to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts on affected sites. Educate content contributors about safe input practices and the risks of injecting untrusted content. Consider disabling or replacing the vulnerable plugin if it is not essential. Finally, maintain regular backups and have an incident response plan to quickly remediate any exploitation.