CVE-2025-8722 is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability affecting the Content Views plugin for WordPress, specifically impacting the Post Grid & Filter, Recent Posts, and Category Posts features implemented via shortcodes, blocks, and Elementor widgets. The vulnerability arises due to improper neutralization of user-supplied input during web page generation, classified under CWE-79. In all versions up to and including 4.1, the plugin fails to adequately sanitize and escape attributes provided by authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher. This flaw allows such users to inject arbitrary malicious scripts into pages or posts. When other users, including administrators or visitors, access these compromised pages, the injected scripts execute in their browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, privilege escalation, or other malicious actions. The vulnerability requires no user interaction beyond visiting the infected page and does not require higher privileges than contributor-level, making it a significant risk in environments where multiple users have content creation rights. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 6.4 (medium severity), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required at the contributor level, no user interaction, and impacts on confidentiality and integrity but not availability. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability’s scope is confined to WordPress sites using this plugin, which is popular for content display customization but may be widely deployed across various sectors.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk, especially for those relying on WordPress for content management and using the Content Views plugin to enhance post display. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized script execution in the context of the affected website, potentially compromising user sessions, stealing sensitive data, or defacing content. This can damage organizational reputation, lead to data breaches involving personal data protected under GDPR, and disrupt business operations. Since contributor-level users can exploit this, insider threats or compromised contributor accounts increase risk. Sectors with high public-facing web presence such as media, education, government, and e-commerce in Europe are particularly vulnerable. The stored nature of the XSS means the malicious payload persists, increasing exposure duration. Additionally, the cross-site scripting could be leveraged to deliver further attacks such as phishing or malware distribution targeting European users. The medium severity score indicates a need for timely remediation to prevent escalation or chained attacks.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify use of the Content Views plugin, especially versions up to 4.1. Until an official patch is released, administrators should consider disabling or removing the plugin to eliminate the attack surface. Restrict contributor-level permissions strictly, ensuring only trusted users have such access, and monitor user activity for suspicious behavior. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block typical XSS payload patterns in requests targeting the plugin’s endpoints. Employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit script execution sources and reduce the impact of injected scripts. Regularly scan websites with specialized tools to detect stored XSS payloads. Educate content contributors about the risks of injecting untrusted code and enforce strict input validation policies. Once a patch is available, prioritize prompt updates. Additionally, review logs for any signs of exploitation attempts and conduct incident response drills to prepare for potential compromise scenarios.