CVE-2025-14056 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Custom Post Type UI plugin for WordPress, a widely used tool for managing custom post types. The vulnerability exists due to improper neutralization of input (CWE-79) specifically in the 'label' parameter during the import process of custom post types. This insufficient input sanitization and output escaping allows an attacker with administrator-level privileges to inject arbitrary JavaScript code that is stored persistently within the plugin's data. When any user accesses the Tools → Get Code page in the WordPress admin interface, the malicious script executes in their browser context. The attack vector requires the attacker to be authenticated with high privileges (administrator), which limits the attack surface but increases the severity given the level of access needed. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.4 (medium), reflecting network attack vector, high attack complexity, and required privileges, with no user interaction needed. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity by enabling script execution that could steal session tokens, modify content, or perform actions on behalf of users. No known public exploits or patches are available at the time of disclosure, emphasizing the need for proactive mitigation. This vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.18.1 of the plugin, which is popular among WordPress users for custom content management.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be significant, particularly for those relying on WordPress sites with the Custom Post Type UI plugin installed. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized script execution within the administrative interface, risking theft of sensitive information such as authentication tokens or personal data, unauthorized content modification, or further compromise of the website's integrity. Since the vulnerability requires administrator privileges, the primary risk is insider threats or attackers who have already gained elevated access through other means. The persistent nature of the stored XSS means that multiple users accessing the affected page could be impacted, potentially leading to widespread compromise within an organization’s web environment. This could affect customer trust, lead to regulatory non-compliance under GDPR due to data exposure, and cause reputational damage. Additionally, attackers could leverage this vulnerability as a foothold for further lateral movement or privilege escalation within the hosting environment. The medium severity score suggests moderate urgency, but the potential for chained attacks and data leakage elevates the importance of timely remediation.

European organizations should implement several specific mitigation steps beyond generic advice: 1) Immediately audit and restrict administrator access to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of malicious input from insiders. 2) Monitor the Tools → Get Code page and related admin pages for unusual script activity or unexpected content injections. 3) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious payloads targeting the 'label' parameter or admin pages. 4) Regularly review and sanitize all inputs related to custom post type imports, applying manual validation if necessary until an official patch is released. 5) Keep WordPress core and all plugins updated, and subscribe to vendor security advisories for prompt patch application once available. 6) Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict script execution sources, reducing the impact of any injected scripts. 7) Conduct internal penetration testing focusing on admin-level XSS vulnerabilities to identify similar weaknesses. 8) Educate administrators on the risks of importing untrusted custom post types and enforce strict change management procedures. These targeted actions will reduce the likelihood and impact of exploitation.