CVE-2025-9978 is a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability classified under CWE-79 found in the Jeg Kit for Elementor WordPress plugin prior to version 2.7.0. The vulnerability stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize SVG file contents uploaded through the xmlrpc.php endpoint, a WordPress interface that allows remote procedure calls including file uploads. SVG files can contain embedded XML and script elements; without proper sanitization, attackers can embed malicious JavaScript that executes in the context of the victim's browser. Exploitation requires an authenticated user to upload a crafted SVG file and some user interaction to trigger the script execution. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability by enabling script injection that can hijack user sessions, steal sensitive data, or perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.8, reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, required privileges, and user interaction. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the presence of xmlrpc.php as a common WordPress feature increases exposure. The vulnerability affects all versions before 2.7.0 of the plugin, which is widely used in WordPress sites for Elementor page building. Given the popularity of WordPress and Elementor in Europe, this vulnerability poses a tangible risk to many organizations relying on these technologies for their web presence.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to significant security breaches on websites using the affected plugin. Attackers exploiting this XSS flaw can execute arbitrary scripts in the context of site visitors or administrators, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, defacement, or distribution of malware. This can damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations due to data leakage), and cause operational disruptions. Organizations in sectors with high web traffic or sensitive data, such as e-commerce, finance, and government, are particularly at risk. The requirement for authenticated access somewhat limits exploitation but does not eliminate risk, especially in environments with multiple users or weak access controls. The vulnerability also increases the attack surface of WordPress sites, which are common targets for cybercriminals in Europe.

1. Immediately update the Jeg Kit for Elementor plugin to version 2.7.0 or later where the vulnerability is patched. 2. If immediate patching is not possible, disable or restrict access to the xmlrpc.php endpoint using web server configurations or security plugins to limit file upload capabilities. 3. Implement strict user access controls and monitor user activities to detect unauthorized uploads or suspicious behavior. 4. Employ a web application firewall (WAF) configured to detect and block malicious SVG payloads and XSS attack patterns. 5. Sanitize and validate all uploaded files, especially SVGs, using specialized libraries or security tools before allowing them on the server. 6. Educate site administrators and users about the risks of uploading untrusted files and the importance of applying security updates promptly. 7. Regularly audit WordPress plugins and themes for vulnerabilities and remove unused or unsupported components.