CVE-2025-3502 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the WP Maps WordPress plugin versions prior to 4.7.2. The vulnerability arises because the plugin fails to properly sanitize and escape certain map settings inputs. This flaw allows users with high privileges, such as administrators, to inject malicious scripts that are stored and later executed in the context of other users viewing the affected settings or pages. Notably, this vulnerability can be exploited even when the WordPress unfiltered_html capability is disabled, such as in multisite environments, which typically restricts the ability to post unfiltered HTML. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 3.5, indicating a low severity level. The vector string (AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:R/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N) reflects that the attack can be performed remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires high privileges, and user interaction is necessary (the victim must interact with the malicious content). The impact affects confidentiality and integrity to a limited extent but does not affect availability. There are no known exploits in the wild at the time of publication, and no official patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is categorized under CWE-79, which is a common web application security issue related to improper input validation leading to XSS attacks. Since the plugin is widely used for embedding maps in WordPress sites, this vulnerability could be leveraged by malicious insiders or compromised admin accounts to execute arbitrary JavaScript, potentially leading to session hijacking, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites within the affected WordPress environment.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability is primarily related to the integrity and confidentiality of web applications using the WP Maps plugin. An attacker with administrative privileges could inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of other users, potentially stealing session tokens, manipulating displayed content, or performing actions on behalf of other users. Although the vulnerability requires high privileges to exploit, the risk is significant in environments where multiple administrators or privileged users exist, such as large enterprises, government portals, or educational institutions. The vulnerability could also be leveraged in targeted attacks against organizations that rely heavily on WordPress for public-facing or internal web services, potentially leading to reputational damage or data leakage. However, since the vulnerability does not affect availability and requires user interaction, the overall operational disruption is limited. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk, but the presence of this vulnerability in a widely deployed plugin means that European organizations should remain vigilant, especially those with complex multisite WordPress setups common in large organizations.

Immediately upgrade the WP Maps plugin to version 4.7.2 or later once available, as this version addresses the sanitization and escaping issues. In the interim, restrict administrative access to trusted personnel only, minimizing the number of users with high privileges who can modify map settings. Implement Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts in browsers, reducing the impact of potential XSS payloads. Regularly audit and monitor WordPress user activities, especially changes to map settings, to detect suspicious behavior early. Use web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules that detect and block common XSS attack patterns targeting WordPress plugins. Educate administrators about the risks of stored XSS and the importance of cautious input handling, even with trusted users. Consider disabling or limiting the use of the WP Maps plugin in environments where it is not essential, reducing the attack surface. Ensure that backups of WordPress sites are maintained regularly to enable quick restoration in case of compromise.