CVE-2025-62057 identifies a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Houzez Theme - Functionality plugin developed by favethemes, specifically affecting all versions prior to 4.2.0. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of user-supplied input during the generation of web pages, which allows attackers to inject malicious JavaScript code into pages rendered by the theme. This type of vulnerability is classified as a reflected or stored XSS depending on the context, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the victim's browser. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.1, indicating high severity, with the vector string AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:L. This means the attack can be launched remotely over the network with low attack complexity, requires no privileges but does require user interaction (such as clicking a malicious link). The scope is changed (S:C), indicating that exploitation can affect resources beyond the vulnerable component, potentially impacting the entire web application or user session. The impact includes partial loss of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, such as theft of session cookies, defacement of web content, or denial of service. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and thus poses a credible risk. The Houzez Theme is a popular WordPress theme used primarily by real estate agencies and property listing websites, making it a targeted vector for attackers seeking to compromise these platforms. The vulnerability affects the theme's functionality plugin, which is integral to the theme's operation, increasing the risk of widespread impact if exploited. No official patch links are provided yet, but users are advised to upgrade to version 4.2.0 or later once available. The vulnerability was reserved in early October 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, particularly those in the real estate sector using the Houzez WordPress theme, this vulnerability can lead to significant risks. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute malicious scripts in users' browsers, resulting in session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed on behalf of legitimate users. This compromises confidentiality and integrity of sensitive client and business data. Additionally, attackers could deface websites or disrupt service availability, damaging brand reputation and causing operational downtime. Given the theme's popularity in digital real estate markets, the potential for targeted phishing campaigns or broader supply chain attacks exists. The vulnerability's remote exploitability without authentication increases the attack surface, making it easier for threat actors to launch attacks at scale. European data protection regulations such as GDPR impose strict requirements on data security; a breach resulting from this vulnerability could lead to regulatory penalties and loss of customer trust. Organizations relying on this theme should consider the risk to their web presence and customer data as a priority for remediation.

1. Immediate upgrade to Houzez Theme - Functionality version 4.2.0 or later once officially released, as this will contain the necessary patches to neutralize the vulnerability. 2. Until patching is possible, implement strict input validation and output encoding on all user-supplied data within the theme’s templates and plugin code to prevent script injection. 3. Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) configured to detect and block common XSS attack patterns targeting WordPress themes and plugins. 4. Conduct a thorough security audit of the website and associated plugins to identify any residual or related vulnerabilities. 5. Educate users and administrators about the risks of clicking on suspicious links and the importance of maintaining updated software. 6. Monitor web server logs and security alerts for unusual activity indicative of attempted exploitation. 7. Consider isolating or restricting access to the affected web application components until the patch is applied. 8. Backup website data regularly to enable quick recovery in case of compromise. 9. Coordinate with theme vendors and security communities for timely updates and advisories.