CVE-2025-47443 is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79, affecting the wpdevart Widget Countdown plugin for WordPress. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, allowing malicious actors to inject and store arbitrary scripts within the widget's data. When a user views the affected widget, the malicious script executes in their browser context. The vulnerability affects versions up to 2.7.4, with no specific earliest affected version identified. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. The vector string (AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:L) reveals that the attack can be performed remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires low privileges, and user interaction is necessary. The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability affects components beyond the initially vulnerable component. The impact includes limited confidentiality, integrity, and availability losses due to script execution in the victim's browser. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. Stored XSS vulnerabilities are particularly dangerous in WordPress plugins because they can affect multiple users and administrators, potentially leading to session hijacking, defacement, or distribution of malware. The vulnerability is enriched by CISA, indicating recognition by US cybersecurity authorities, but no direct mitigation or patch is currently available from the vendor.

For European organizations using WordPress sites with the wpdevart Widget Countdown plugin, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk. Stored XSS can lead to credential theft, session hijacking, and unauthorized actions performed on behalf of users, including administrators. This can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data and disrupt availability through malicious scripts. European organizations in sectors such as e-commerce, government, education, and media that rely on WordPress for public-facing or internal websites are particularly at risk. The vulnerability could be exploited to target employees or customers, leading to reputational damage and potential regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is compromised. Additionally, the cross-site scripting could be leveraged as a foothold for further attacks within the organization's network. The requirement for low privileges to exploit and the remote attack vector increase the likelihood of exploitation, especially if user interaction can be socially engineered.

1. Immediate mitigation should include auditing all WordPress sites for the presence of the wpdevart Widget Countdown plugin and identifying the version in use. 2. Disable or remove the plugin until a vendor patch is released. 3. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious input patterns targeting the widget's input fields. 4. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict script execution sources, mitigating the impact of injected scripts. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of clicking on suspicious links or interacting with untrusted content on affected sites. 6. Monitor logs for unusual activity or attempts to exploit XSS vulnerabilities. 7. Once a patch is available, prioritize prompt application of updates. 8. Consider additional input validation and sanitization at the application level if customizations are possible. 9. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests focusing on plugin vulnerabilities.