CVE-2025-57989

Vulnerability

Overview The WordPress Widgets Shortcode plugin (versions up to and including 1.0.3) contains a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability due to improper neutralization of user-supplied input during web page generation [1]. This flaw enables an attacker to inject arbitrary HTML and JavaScript code that persists on the server and executes when other users' browsers when they visit affected pages.

Exploitation

Prerequisites Exploitation requires an authenticated user with at least contributor-level privileges to submit the malicious payload through the plugin's shortcode functionality [1]. The attack does not require any special network-level access or special conditions beyond standard WordPress user roles. Successful exploitation also depends on an administrator or other privileged user performing an action such as clicking a link or visiting a crafted page, which triggers the stored script [1].

Impact

An attacker can inject scripts that perform actions like redirecting visitors to malicious sites, displaying unwanted advertisements, or stealing session cookies [1]. Because the XSS is stored, the payload affects all subsequent visitors to the compromised page, potentially leading to widespread site defacement or credential theft.

Mitigation

The vendor has not released a patched version; users are advised to update the plugin immediately if a fix becomes available [1]. As a workaround, restrict contributor-level access or disable the plugin until a security update is applied. This vulnerability is listed in the Patchstack database and may be targeted in mass-exploit campaigns [1].