CVE-2025-8062 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability identified in the WS Theme Addons plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting the ws_weather shortcode functionality. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation (CWE-79), where user-supplied attributes are insufficiently sanitized and escaped before being rendered. As a result, authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher can inject arbitrary malicious scripts into pages. These scripts execute in the context of any user who views the compromised page, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions on behalf of the victim. The vulnerability affects all versions of the WS Theme Addons plugin up to and including version 2.0.0. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity, requiring privileges equivalent to contributor-level access but no user interaction is needed for exploitation. The scope is changed, meaning the vulnerability can affect resources beyond the initially compromised component. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no official patches have been released at the time of this report. The vulnerability was publicly disclosed on August 23, 2025.

For European organizations using WordPress websites with the WS Theme Addons plugin, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to web application security. Attackers with contributor-level access—often granted to content editors or similar roles—can inject malicious scripts that execute in the browsers of site visitors, including administrators and other privileged users. This can lead to theft of authentication cookies, unauthorized actions such as content manipulation, or redirection to malicious sites. The impact is particularly critical for organizations handling sensitive data or providing services to customers, as it can undermine trust and lead to data breaches or reputational damage. Given the widespread use of WordPress across Europe, especially among SMEs and public sector entities, exploitation could disrupt business operations and compromise user data. The vulnerability does not directly affect availability but threatens confidentiality and integrity of web content and user sessions.

Organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the WS Theme Addons plugin and verify its version. Until an official patch is released, the following specific mitigations are recommended: 1) Restrict contributor-level permissions strictly to trusted users and review user roles to minimize unnecessary privileges. 2) Disable or remove the ws_weather shortcode usage in posts and pages to prevent exploitation vectors. 3) Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules that detect and block suspicious script injection patterns related to this plugin. 4) Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict execution of unauthorized scripts on affected sites. 5) Monitor logs for unusual activity indicative of XSS exploitation attempts. 6) Once available, promptly apply vendor patches or updates addressing this vulnerability. 7) Educate content contributors about safe input practices and the risks of injecting untrusted content. These targeted actions go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific plugin and attack vector involved.