CVE-2025-8146 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting the Qi Addons For Elementor WordPress plugin, specifically via the TypeOut Text widget. This vulnerability arises from improper input sanitization and insufficient output escaping of user-supplied attributes. Authenticated attackers with contributor-level privileges or higher can exploit this flaw by injecting arbitrary JavaScript code into pages generated by the plugin. When other users visit these compromised pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or unauthorized actions on behalf of the victim. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.9.2 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is network-based, requiring low attack complexity and privileges (contributor or above), but no user interaction is needed for the payload to execute once injected. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity but does not affect availability. No known exploits have been reported in the wild at the time of publication. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-79, which covers improper neutralization of input during web page generation leading to XSS.

For European organizations using WordPress websites with the Qi Addons For Elementor plugin, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to website integrity and user trust. Exploitation could allow attackers to steal session cookies, deface websites, or perform unauthorized actions under the guise of legitimate users. This is particularly concerning for organizations handling sensitive user data or providing critical online services, as compromised sessions could lead to data breaches or unauthorized administrative changes. Since the attack requires contributor-level access, insider threats or compromised contributor accounts are primary risk vectors. The stored nature of the XSS means the malicious payload persists and can affect multiple users over time. For sectors such as e-commerce, government portals, and media outlets prevalent in Europe, this could result in reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations due to data leakage), and financial losses.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the Qi Addons For Elementor plugin and verify the version in use. Upgrading to a patched version, once released by the vendor, is the most effective mitigation. Until a patch is available, organizations should restrict contributor-level access strictly to trusted users and implement additional monitoring of user-generated content for suspicious scripts. Employing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block typical XSS payloads targeting the TypeOut Text widget can reduce risk. Additionally, applying Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict script execution sources can mitigate impact. Regular security training for contributors to recognize and avoid unsafe content submissions is recommended. Finally, website administrators should monitor logs for unusual activity and consider scanning existing content for injected scripts to remediate any persistent malicious code.