CVE-2025-23926 represents a medium severity vulnerability classified as a Cross-site Scripting (XSS) issue. This vulnerability allows improper neutralization of input during web page generation in the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin. The potential for stored XSS can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information and manipulation of user sessions. The vulnerability affects versions of the plugin up to and including 1.0.7.
The CVSS score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. This score reflects the potential impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Given the nature of XSS vulnerabilities, the risk to organizations includes possible data theft, session hijacking, and reputational damage if exploited.
Currently, there is no known exploit for this vulnerability, and it is not included in the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) list. However, organizations should prioritize patching this vulnerability to mitigate any potential risks associated with its exploitation.
Organizations using the affected plugin should take immediate action to apply patches or updates as they become available, ensuring their systems remain secure against potential threats.
Vulnerability Details
The improper neutralization of input during web page generation, also known as a Cross-site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability, allows stored XSS attacks. Specifically, this issue affects the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin, which is used in WordPress environments. The vulnerability can be exploited by an attacker to inject malicious scripts into web pages, potentially leading to data compromise.
The CVSS 3.1 score for this vulnerability is 6.5, indicating a medium severity level. The attack vector is classified as network-based, with low attack complexity and low privileges required for exploitation. User interaction is required for successful exploitation, as the malicious script must be executed in the context of the victim's browser.
The vulnerability was published on January 16, 2025, and the status is currently deferred. The CWE classification for this vulnerability is CWE-79, which pertains to improper neutralization of input during web page generation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate handling of user input by the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin. Specifically, malicious users can inject scripts that are stored and executed in the context of other users' browsers, leading to potential data theft or unauthorized actions.
The attack vector is network-based, meaning an attacker can exploit this vulnerability remotely without physical access to the affected system. The attack complexity is low, as it requires only basic knowledge of XSS techniques. A low level of privileges is required for the attacker, as they do not need elevated permissions to exploit this vulnerability, but user interaction is necessary to execute the malicious script.
The confidentiality impact is classified as low, as the attacker may gain access to sensitive information stored in user sessions. The integrity impact is also low, as it allows modification of user data but does not directly compromise system integrity. Finally, the availability impact is low, as the vulnerability does not cause denial of service or outages.
Risk & Impact Analysis
Organizations utilizing the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin are at risk due to the potential for stored XSS attacks. An attacker could leverage this vulnerability to execute scripts in the context of other users, leading to unauthorized access to sensitive data and potential manipulation of user accounts.
The blast radius of this vulnerability can be significant, especially in multi-user environments where a single successful exploit could compromise multiple user accounts. The urgency to address this vulnerability is categorized as medium due to its potential impact on data security and user trust.
Given the CVSS score of 6.5 and the current lack of known exploits, organizations should prioritize this vulnerability in their patching cycle to mitigate risks associated with potential exploitation.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin include all versions prior to vendor patch, specifically up to and including version 1.0.7. Organizations should review their plugin versions and update accordingly.
Mitigation & Remediation
Organizations are advised to apply patches or updates as they become available for the TC.K Ajax WP Query Search Filter plugin. Regular monitoring of plugin updates is essential to ensure that systems are protected against known vulnerabilities.
In addition to applying updates, organizations should implement configuration hardening practices to mitigate potential XSS vulnerabilities. Network controls and monitoring should also be established to detect any unusual behavior associated with the exploitation of this vulnerability.
For continuous security validation, organizations should consider engaging in continuous security testing to identify vulnerabilities early.
Detection Guidance
To detect potential exploitation of this XSS vulnerability, organizations should monitor logs for indicators of unusual activity, such as unexpected script execution or user session anomalies.
Behavioral anomalies in user interactions should also be noted, especially in cases where users report unexpected behavior on the site. Network signatures should be established to identify potential attack patterns related to XSS.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The long-term significance of CVE-2025-23926 lies in its representation of common vulnerabilities in widely used plugins. Security teams should learn from this incident to enhance their vulnerability management processes.
This vulnerability highlights the importance of maintaining secure coding practices and conducting regular security assessments. Organizations should be proactive in their approach to security, applying lessons learned from incidents like this to bolster defenses.
For further reading on strengthening application security, organizations can explore resources on vulnerability management programs and the importance of penetration testing methodologies in identifying potential weaknesses.
Overall, CVE-2025-23926 serves as a reminder of the ongoing risks associated with web application vulnerabilities and the need for continuous vigilance and improvement in security practices.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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