CVE-2025-8146 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting the Qi Addons For Elementor WordPress plugin, specifically in the TypeOut Text widget. This vulnerability arises from improper neutralization of input during web page generation (CWE-79), where user-supplied attributes are not adequately sanitized or escaped before being rendered. The flaw allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages. Because the malicious script is stored persistently within the website content, it executes whenever any user accesses the compromised page. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.9.2 of the plugin. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based, requires low attack complexity, and privileges at the contributor level, but no user interaction is needed for exploitation. The scope is changed, indicating that the vulnerability can impact components beyond the initially vulnerable module. The impact includes limited confidentiality and integrity loss but no availability impact. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability is significant because WordPress is widely used for websites, and Elementor is a popular page builder plugin, with Qi Addons extending its functionality. Stored XSS can lead to session hijacking, defacement, or redirection to malicious sites, posing risks to website visitors and administrators.

For European organizations using WordPress sites with the Qi Addons For Elementor plugin, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized script execution within the context of the affected website. This can compromise user accounts, steal cookies or credentials, and potentially allow attackers to perform actions on behalf of legitimate users. Organizations handling sensitive data or providing critical services via affected websites risk data leakage and reputational damage. Since contributor-level access is required, insider threats or compromised contributor accounts could be leveraged to exploit this vulnerability. The stored nature of the XSS means that once injected, the malicious payload persists and can affect all visitors, increasing the attack surface. This is particularly concerning for organizations in sectors like finance, healthcare, e-commerce, and government, where trust and data integrity are paramount. Additionally, regulatory frameworks such as GDPR impose strict data protection requirements, and exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to compliance violations and associated penalties.

Organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the Qi Addons For Elementor plugin and verify the version in use. Until an official patch is released, administrators should consider disabling or removing the vulnerable widget (TypeOut Text) or the entire plugin if feasible. Restrict contributor-level permissions to trusted users only and monitor for unusual activity or content changes. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block common XSS payloads targeting this plugin. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the execution of unauthorized scripts on affected sites. Regularly review and sanitize user-generated content, especially from contributors. Once a patch becomes available, prioritize prompt updating of the plugin to the fixed version. Additionally, conduct security awareness training for contributors to reduce the risk of accidental exploitation. Consider deploying security plugins that scan for XSS vulnerabilities and malicious code injections.