CVE-2025-22539 is a high-severity vulnerability classified as Cross-site Scripting (XSS) that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages generated by the Custom DataBase Tables plugin for WordPress. With a CVSS score of 7.1, this vulnerability poses a significant risk, as it can be exploited over the network with low complexity. Attackers may leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary scripts in the context of the affected application, leading to potential data theft or session hijacking.
This vulnerability affects versions of the Custom DataBase Tables plugin from n/a up to and including 2.1.34. Organizations using this plugin should prioritize patching immediately to prevent unauthorized access and mitigate risks associated with reflected XSS attacks. The vulnerability was published on January 9, 2025, and has been marked as deferred, indicating that while it is recognized, immediate remediation activities may not yet be available.
Risk to organizations includes the potential for attackers to exploit the XSS vulnerability, which could lead to compromised user accounts and sensitive information being exposed. Given the nature of the attack vector, organizations should assess their exposure and take necessary measures to secure their WordPress installations.
As of now, there is no public proof of concept (PoC) available for this vulnerability, and it is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) catalog. However, organizations should remain vigilant and monitor for any updates regarding exploitation attempts associated with CVE-2025-22539.
Organizations should address this vulnerability in priority patch cycles to safeguard their systems and maintain the integrity of their data.
Vulnerability Details
The vulnerability occurs due to improper neutralization of input during web page generation in the Custom DataBase Tables plugin, which allows for reflected XSS attacks. The underlying issue is classified under CWE-79, relating to improper neutralization of input. The CVSS vector for this vulnerability is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:R/S:C/C:L/I:L/A:L.
The vulnerability's impacts include low confidentiality, integrity, and availability, with the attack complexity rated as low. The exploitation requires no privileges, but user interaction is necessary for the attack to be successful.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate handling of user input within the Custom DataBase Tables plugin. The improper sanitization of input allows malicious scripts to be reflected off the server and executed in the user's browser. This attack vector can be exploited remotely over the network, making it particularly dangerous.
The attack complexity is low, meaning that an attacker does not require advanced skills to exploit this vulnerability. Furthermore, no privileges are needed to initiate the attack, which potentially allows unauthenticated users to perform the exploitation. User interaction is required, as the victim needs to click on a malicious link that triggers the XSS payload.
The confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts are rated as low, indicating that while the potential for data exposure exists, the effects may not be immediately catastrophic. However, organizations should not underestimate the potential for serious repercussions, as successful XSS attacks can lead to significant security breaches.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Real-world deployment of this vulnerability could lead to severe risks for organizations relying on the Custom DataBase Tables plugin. The ability of attackers to execute scripts in users' browsers can result in unauthorized access to user accounts, exposure of sensitive data, and potential reputation damage for the affected organization.
The blast radius of this vulnerability is concerning, as it not only affects individual users but can also lead to wider implications for the organization as a whole. Given that this vulnerability is classified with a high severity, organizations should prioritize its remediation to mitigate risks effectively.
Considering the CVSS score and the fact that this vulnerability is not included in the KEV catalog, organizations should still take proactive measures to address it in their patch cycles. The urgency to patch this vulnerability is high, as the potential for exploitation remains present.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
All versions of the Custom DataBase Tables plugin up to and including version 2.1.34 are affected by this vulnerability. Organizations using this plugin should ensure they upgrade to the latest version as part of their remediation efforts.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should apply the latest patches for the Custom DataBase Tables plugin. If a patch is not available, organizations should consider disabling the affected plugin until a secure version can be deployed. Additionally, implementing input validation and output encoding can help prevent XSS vulnerabilities in general.
For ongoing security, organizations may benefit from conducting regular security assessments. Engaging in continuous penetration testing can help identify and remediate vulnerabilities before they are exploited.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for unusual script execution patterns and any signs of attempted XSS attacks. Behavioral anomalies in user interactions, especially those involving input fields that are susceptible to XSS, should be closely scrutinized. Network signatures associated with XSS payloads can also aid in early detection.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-22539 highlights the need for robust security practices in web applications. This vulnerability exemplifies a common attack vector that remains prevalent in many systems. Security teams should take this as an opportunity to assess their defenses against XSS and other injection flaws.
Organizations should also take note of trends in vulnerability disclosures and exploit patterns. Engaging in a proactive approach to security, including leveraging resources such as vulnerability management programs, can help in understanding and mitigating similar risks in the future.
As the landscape of web threats evolves, organizations must remain vigilant and adaptable. Regular training and updates on security best practices will contribute to a more resilient security posture.
For further reading on securing web applications against XSS and other vulnerabilities, organizations may explore resources such as the web application penetration testing guide.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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