CVE-2025-67986 is a DOM-based Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting the Barn2 Plugins Document Library Lite WordPress plugin, specifically versions up to 1.1.7. The vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of user-supplied input during the generation of web pages, allowing malicious scripts to be injected and executed in the context of the victim's browser. DOM-based XSS differs from traditional reflected or stored XSS in that the vulnerability exists in client-side scripts that process data from the DOM, making detection and mitigation more challenging. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability can execute arbitrary JavaScript code, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized actions performed with the victim's privileges. The vulnerability does not require authentication, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits have been reported, the widespread use of WordPress and its plugins makes this a notable threat. The lack of an official patch link suggests that remediation may be pending, emphasizing the need for interim mitigations. The vulnerability was published on December 16, 2025, and is tracked under CVE-2025-67986. The absence of a CVSS score necessitates an independent severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of web applications using the Document Library Lite plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to the compromise of user sessions, unauthorized access to sensitive documents, and potential lateral movement within organizational networks. Given the plugin's role in managing document libraries, attackers could manipulate or exfiltrate confidential corporate or client data. The vulnerability's client-side nature means that end-users are directly targeted, potentially affecting employees, partners, or customers interacting with affected websites. This can result in reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance (especially under GDPR), and financial losses. The ease of exploitation without authentication increases the threat level, making it attractive for opportunistic attackers and advanced persistent threat (APT) actors alike. Organizations relying on this plugin for document management should consider the risk of data leakage and unauthorized actions stemming from this vulnerability.

1. Monitor Barn2 Plugins' official channels for a security patch addressing CVE-2025-67986 and apply it immediately upon release. 2. In the interim, implement a strict Content Security Policy (CSP) to restrict the execution of untrusted scripts and reduce the impact of XSS attacks. 3. Review and sanitize all user inputs and URL parameters processed by the Document Library Lite plugin, focusing on client-side scripts that manipulate the DOM. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block XSS payloads targeting this plugin. 5. Educate users about the risks of clicking suspicious links or interacting with untrusted content on affected sites. 6. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focusing on client-side vulnerabilities. 7. Consider temporarily disabling the plugin or replacing it with alternative solutions if patching is delayed and risk is unacceptable. 8. Ensure that all WordPress core and other plugins are kept up to date to minimize the attack surface.