CVE-2024-53786 in Cowidgets Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/01/2024
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Codeless Cowidgets – Elementor Addons allows Stored XSS.This issue affects Cowidgets – Elementor Addons: from n/a through 1.2.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/22/2025
The CVE-2024-53786 vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Codeless Cowidgets – Elementor Addons plugin, specifically impacting versions through 1.2.0. This vulnerability falls under the CWE-79 category of Cross-Site Scripting, which is one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws. The issue manifests as a stored XSS vulnerability, meaning that malicious scripts can be permanently stored on the server and executed whenever users access affected pages, rather than requiring a one-time injection. The vulnerability occurs during the web page generation process where input validation and sanitization mechanisms fail to properly neutralize user-supplied data before it is rendered in web pages. This flaw specifically affects the Elementor page builder plugin ecosystem, which is widely used for WordPress website development, making it particularly concerning given the extensive deployment of Elementor-based sites across various industries.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can inject malicious JavaScript code through input fields or parameters that are then stored in the database and subsequently rendered in web pages without proper sanitization. The flaw allows for persistent script execution, which means that any user who views the affected page will execute the malicious code in their browser context. This stored nature of the vulnerability makes it particularly dangerous as it can affect multiple users over time without requiring repeated exploitation attempts. The vulnerability affects the plugin's handling of user-generated content during the page generation process, where input validation is insufficient to prevent the execution of malicious scripts. The attack vector likely involves manipulating form fields, widget settings, or other user input mechanisms within the Elementor editor environment where the Cowidgets plugin components are utilized.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to perform a wide range of malicious activities including session hijacking, data theft, redirection to malicious sites, and even privilege escalation within the compromised WordPress environment. The vulnerability creates a persistent backdoor that can be leveraged for long-term access to affected websites, potentially allowing attackers to modify content, steal user credentials, or establish further footholds within network environments. Given that Elementor is commonly used for business websites, e-commerce platforms, and corporate portals, the potential for financial loss, data breaches, and reputational damage is substantial. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments and T1059.001 for command and control through script execution, making it a significant concern for security operations teams managing WordPress environments.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement mitigations including updating to the latest version of the Cowidgets – Elementor Addons plugin where the XSS flaw has been patched. The recommended approach involves thorough patch management procedures, including testing updates in staging environments before deployment to production systems. Security teams should also implement web application firewalls with XSS detection capabilities and conduct comprehensive security audits of all Elementor-based websites to identify potential exploitation attempts. Input sanitization measures should be enhanced across all user-facing interfaces, and regular security monitoring should be implemented to detect any suspicious activities or unauthorized modifications to website content. Additionally, administrators should consider implementing content security policies and regularly reviewing user permissions to minimize the impact of potential exploitation, as the vulnerability could be leveraged for privilege escalation attacks within the WordPress administration interface.