CVE-2024-52423 in Builder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/18/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation (XSS or 'Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Themify Themify Builder allows Stored XSS.This issue affects Themify Builder: from n/a through 7.6.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/26/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-52423 represents a critical security flaw in the Themify Builder plugin for WordPress systems, specifically manifesting as an improper neutralization of input during web page generation. This weakness enables stored cross-site scripting attacks that can persistently compromise user sessions and data integrity across affected installations. The vulnerability exists within the Themify Builder component that handles content generation and rendering processes, creating an attack surface where malicious input can be silently stored and later executed without proper sanitization or validation measures.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation and output escaping mechanisms within the Themify Builder's content processing pipeline. When users or attackers submit malicious payloads through the plugin's interface, these inputs are not properly sanitized before being stored in the database and subsequently rendered in web pages. This failure in input neutralization creates a persistent XSS vector where malicious scripts can execute in the context of other users' browsers, potentially leading to session hijacking, credential theft, or unauthorized administrative actions. The vulnerability affects all versions of Themify Builder from the initial release through version 7.6.3, indicating a long-standing issue that has not been adequately addressed in the plugin's security architecture.
The operational impact of this stored XSS vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, creating significant risks for website administrators and end users who interact with compromised sites. Attackers can inject malicious code that persists across multiple user sessions, allowing them to capture sensitive information, manipulate content, or escalate privileges within the WordPress environment. The stored nature of this vulnerability means that once exploited, the malicious scripts continue to execute whenever affected pages are loaded, providing attackers with sustained access to compromised systems. This persistent threat can lead to complete system compromise, data exfiltration, and unauthorized modifications to website content, making it particularly dangerous for businesses relying on WordPress for their online presence.
Security professionals should consider this vulnerability in the context of CWE-79, which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws in software applications. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this as a web application attack vector under the T1203 technique for "Exploitation for Client Execution" and T1566 for "Phishing" when malicious scripts are used to capture user credentials. Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including updating to the latest version of Themify Builder where the vulnerability has been patched, implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious payloads, and conducting thorough security audits of all WordPress installations. Additionally, administrators should review user permissions and implement content security policies to limit the impact of potential exploitation, while monitoring for suspicious activities that may indicate successful exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of regular security updates and proper input validation practices in web application development, particularly in content management systems where user-generated content processing occurs.