CVE-2024-39626 in Pretty Simple Popup Builder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 08/02/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Rob @ 5 Star Plugins Pretty Simple Popup Builder pretty-simple-popup-builder allows Stored XSS.This issue affects Pretty Simple Popup Builder: from n/a through <= 1.0.9.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/02/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2024-39626 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the Pretty Simple Popup Builder plugin developed by Rob @ 5 Star Plugins. This stored XSS vulnerability occurs during the web page generation process when user input is improperly neutralized, creating an avenue for malicious actors to inject persistent script code into the plugin's output. The vulnerability specifically impacts versions of the plugin ranging from the initial release through version 1.0.9, making a significant portion of the user base susceptible to this attack vector. The issue stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied data that gets stored and subsequently rendered in popup content, allowing attackers to execute malicious scripts in the context of other users' browsers.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability follows the established patterns of stored cross-site scripting attacks as categorized under CWE-79, which addresses the improper neutralization of input during web page generation. Attackers can leverage this weakness by crafting malicious payloads through the plugin's input fields and storing them within the popup builder's database or configuration. When other users view the affected popup content, their browsers execute the malicious scripts, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or redirection to malicious sites. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be classified under the ATT&CK framework as T1531 - Account Access Token Hijacking, as it enables unauthorized access to user sessions through script execution. This stored nature means that the malicious code persists even after the initial injection, making it particularly dangerous as it affects multiple users over time.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution to encompass potential data breaches and system compromise. When attackers successfully exploit this stored XSS, they can steal cookies, session tokens, and potentially escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. The vulnerability affects not only individual user experiences but also poses risks to the entire WordPress installation, as the malicious scripts can access the victim's browser session and potentially interact with other WordPress functionalities. Organizations using the affected plugin versions face significant security risks, including potential unauthorized access to sensitive information, modification of popup content, and establishment of persistent backdoors through the execution of malicious scripts. The vulnerability's persistence means that once exploited, the malicious payload remains active until manually removed from the plugin's stored data, creating long-term exposure risks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-39626 involve immediate remediation through plugin version updates, as the vulnerability has been addressed in subsequent releases. Administrators should prioritize updating to the latest version of the Pretty Simple Popup Builder plugin, which incorporates proper input sanitization and output encoding mechanisms to prevent XSS attacks. Additionally, implementing content security policies can provide an additional layer of protection by restricting script execution within the affected areas. Regular security audits of WordPress plugins should include verification of input validation mechanisms and output encoding practices. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect suspicious script injection patterns, while user access controls should be reviewed to limit plugin configuration capabilities to trusted administrators only. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of input validation and output encoding in web applications, particularly in content management systems where user-generated content processing occurs. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block potential XSS attack attempts, and establish regular patch management procedures to ensure timely application of security updates.