CVE-2025-48088 is a stored Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the Ultimate Addons for WPBakery Page Builder plugin developed by Brainstorm Force. This vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input during web page generation, classified under CWE-79. Specifically, the plugin fails to adequately sanitize or encode user-supplied input before rendering it on web pages, allowing attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code that is stored persistently. When other users or administrators view the affected pages, the malicious script executes in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability affects all versions prior to 3.21.1, with no patch currently linked but expected to be released. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.5, reflecting a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network (remote exploitation), low attack complexity, requiring low privileges and user interaction, and impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability in a scope that affects multiple users. No known exploits have been reported in the wild, but the vulnerability is significant due to the widespread use of the WPBakery Page Builder and its addons in WordPress environments. The plugin is popular among website administrators for enhancing page-building capabilities, making this vulnerability a concern for many WordPress sites globally, including those in Europe.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to websites using WordPress with the Ultimate Addons for WPBakery Page Builder plugin. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized script execution in users' browsers, enabling attackers to steal session cookies, perform actions on behalf of users, deface websites, or redirect visitors to malicious domains. This can damage organizational reputation, lead to data breaches involving user credentials or personal data, and disrupt website availability. Public-facing websites, especially those handling sensitive user data or providing critical services, are at higher risk. The medium severity indicates that while the vulnerability is not trivially exploitable without user interaction, the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability is notable. Given the popularity of WordPress in Europe, especially among SMEs and public sector entities, the threat could affect a broad range of organizations, potentially leading to regulatory compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is compromised.

European organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate this vulnerability. First, monitor Brainstorm Force's official channels for the release of a security patch for Ultimate Addons for WPBakery Page Builder and apply it promptly. Until a patch is available, restrict plugin usage to trusted users and limit input fields that accept user-generated content. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block common XSS payloads targeting this plugin. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to reduce the impact of potential script injection. Conduct regular security audits and input validation reviews on all web-facing forms and content management interfaces. Educate administrators and content editors about the risks of XSS and safe content handling practices. Additionally, consider isolating critical administrative interfaces and enforcing multi-factor authentication to reduce the impact of session hijacking. Continuous monitoring of logs for unusual activity related to the plugin is also recommended.