CVE-2024-4626 in JetWidgets for Elementor Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/20/2024
The JetWidgets For Elementor plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the ‘layout_type’ and 'id' parameters in all versions up to, and including, 1.0.17 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/22/2025
The JetWidgets For Elementor plugin represents a popular extension for WordPress that enhances the functionality of the Elementor page builder with additional widgets and layout options. This particular vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.0.17, creating a significant security risk for WordPress installations that utilize this plugin. The vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms within the plugin's codebase, specifically targeting the 'layout_type' and 'id' parameters that are processed during user interactions with the plugin's administrative interfaces.
The technical flaw manifests as a stored cross-site scripting vulnerability that operates through the manipulation of two specific parameters within the plugin's backend processing. When authenticated attackers with contributor-level permissions or higher submit malicious input through these parameters, the plugin fails to properly sanitize or escape the user-supplied data before storing it in the database. This stored malicious content then executes whenever any user with appropriate privileges accesses pages containing the injected script, creating a persistent threat vector that can affect multiple users within the same WordPress installation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it provides attackers with a foothold for more sophisticated attacks within the WordPress environment. Contributors and above typically have sufficient privileges to modify content and access various administrative functions, making this vulnerability particularly dangerous. The stored nature of the XSS means that the malicious scripts remain active even after the initial injection, continuously executing against any user who views affected pages. This creates a persistent threat that can be leveraged for session hijacking, credential theft, or further exploitation of the WordPress installation.
From a cybersecurity perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in web applications. The issue also maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 which covers social engineering through malicious content injection. Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including updating to the latest plugin version, applying the vendor's security patch, and monitoring for suspicious activity in the affected plugin's administrative interfaces. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output escaping mechanisms in WordPress plugins serves as a fundamental defense against similar vulnerabilities. The security community should also consider this vulnerability as an example of why regular security audits and proper code review processes are essential for maintaining secure WordPress environments, particularly for plugins that handle user input in administrative contexts.