CVE-2025-1405 is a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability affecting the Product Catalog Simple plugin for WordPress, versions up to and including 1.7.11. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, specifically due to insufficient sanitization and escaping of user-supplied attributes in the show_products shortcode. This flaw allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level or higher privileges to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages generated by the plugin. When other users visit these pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of the victim. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 6.4, reflecting a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based, requiring low attack complexity and privileges but no user interaction. The scope is changed because the vulnerability affects resources beyond the attacker’s privileges, impacting other users. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk to websites using this plugin, especially those allowing contributor-level access to untrusted users. The lack of patches at the time of publication necessitates immediate attention to mitigate risk.

The primary impact of CVE-2025-1405 is on the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites. Attackers can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of site visitors or administrators, enabling theft of session cookies, credentials, or other sensitive data. This can lead to account takeover, unauthorized actions, or further compromise of the website. Although availability is not directly affected, successful exploitation can facilitate subsequent attacks that degrade service or deface content. Organizations relying on the Product Catalog Simple plugin risk reputational damage, loss of user trust, and potential regulatory consequences if user data is compromised. Since contributor-level access is required, insider threats or compromised contributor accounts increase the risk. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to 1.7.11, potentially impacting a wide range of WordPress sites globally, especially those with active content contributors.

To mitigate CVE-2025-1405, organizations should first check for and apply any available updates or patches from the plugin vendor once released. In the absence of official patches, administrators should restrict contributor-level access to trusted users only and audit existing contributor accounts for suspicious activity. Employing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block XSS payloads targeting the show_products shortcode can provide temporary protection. Additionally, site owners can implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict the execution of unauthorized scripts. Reviewing and sanitizing all user-generated content before it is saved or rendered is critical; custom code or plugins that enforce stricter input validation and output encoding can help. Monitoring logs for unusual activity related to shortcode usage and educating contributors about safe content practices further reduce risk. Finally, consider disabling or replacing the vulnerable plugin if immediate patching is not feasible.