CVE-2026-0867 identifies a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability in the Essential Widgets plugin for WordPress, developed by catchthemes. The flaw exists in all versions up to and including 3.0 due to improper neutralization of user input in the plugin's shortcodes: ew-author, ew-archive, ew-category, ew-page, and ew-menu. Specifically, the plugin fails to adequately sanitize and escape user-supplied attributes before rendering them on web pages. This allows authenticated users with contributor-level permissions or higher to inject arbitrary JavaScript code into pages. When other users visit these pages, the malicious scripts execute in their browsers, potentially compromising session tokens, redirecting users, or performing unauthorized actions. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond visiting the infected page and does not require administrator privileges, increasing its risk. Although version 3.0 partially fixes the issue, earlier versions remain vulnerable. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 6.4, reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required, no user interaction, and partial impact on confidentiality and integrity. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability poses a significant risk to WordPress sites using this plugin, especially those with multiple contributors.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized script execution on corporate or public-facing WordPress sites, potentially resulting in session hijacking, data theft, defacement, or distribution of malware. Organizations relying on Essential Widgets for content presentation risk exposure if contributor accounts are compromised or misused. The attack can undermine user trust, cause reputational damage, and lead to compliance issues under GDPR if personal data is exposed or manipulated. Since contributors can inject scripts, insider threats or compromised contributor accounts increase risk. The vulnerability affects availability minimally but impacts confidentiality and integrity of web content and user sessions. Given WordPress's widespread use in Europe, especially among SMEs and public institutions, the threat is relevant across multiple sectors including media, education, and government. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat of targeted attacks.

European organizations should immediately update the Essential Widgets plugin to the latest version where the vulnerability is partially fixed or apply any available patches from catchthemes. If updating is not immediately feasible, restrict contributor-level permissions to trusted users only and monitor user activity for suspicious shortcode usage. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block XSS payloads targeting the affected shortcodes. Conduct regular security audits of WordPress user roles and plugin configurations. Educate content contributors about the risks of injecting untrusted code and enforce strict content review policies. Additionally, employ Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to limit the impact of potential XSS attacks by restricting script execution sources. Backup website data regularly to enable quick recovery if defacement or compromise occurs. Finally, monitor security advisories from catchthemes and WordPress communities for updates or new patches.