CVE-2024-54223 in ARForms Form Builder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 12/09/2024
Improper Neutralization of Script-Related HTML Tags in a Web Page (Basic XSS) vulnerability in Contact Form - Repute InfoSystems ARForms Form Builder allows Code Injection.This issue affects ARForms Form Builder: from n/a through 1.7.1.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/24/2026
The vulnerability CVE-2024-54223 represents a classic cross-site scripting flaw classified under CWE-79 Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation. This weakness exists within the Contact Form - Repute InfoSystems ARForms Form Builder plugin, specifically impacting versions ranging from the initial release through 1.7.1. The vulnerability stems from inadequate sanitization of user-supplied input that is subsequently rendered in web page contexts without proper HTML encoding or escaping mechanisms. Attackers can exploit this weakness by injecting malicious script code into form fields or parameters that are then processed and displayed on web pages without sufficient security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs when user input containing HTML tags or script elements is accepted by the form builder without proper validation and sanitization. When the application processes and displays this data in web page contexts, the embedded script code can execute in the browsers of other users who view the affected content. This basic form of XSS allows threat actors to perform various malicious activities including session hijacking, defacement of web pages, data theft from users, and redirection to malicious websites. The vulnerability specifically affects the rendering of form data where HTML tags are not properly neutralized, creating an execution environment for malicious payloads.
The operational impact of CVE-2024-54223 extends beyond simple data corruption or display issues, as it creates persistent security risks for organizations relying on the affected form builder plugin. Attackers can leverage this vulnerability to steal sensitive information submitted through forms, manipulate the user interface to deceive visitors, or establish persistent access through session manipulation. The vulnerability affects not only the form submission functionality but also any administrative interfaces or user-facing elements that display form data. Organizations using affected versions may experience unauthorized access to user data, potential compromise of web server integrity, and damage to their reputation due to unauthorized modifications or content injection.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2024-54223 should prioritize immediate remediation through updating to the latest available version of the ARForms Form Builder plugin where the vulnerability has been addressed. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent similar issues in the future. The solution involves applying proper HTML escaping to all user-supplied content before rendering it in web contexts, implementing Content Security Policies to limit script execution, and conducting regular security assessments of web applications. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing web application firewalls and monitoring for suspicious input patterns that may indicate attempts to exploit similar vulnerabilities. This vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for credential access through phishing and T1584.002 for establishing persistence through web shells, highlighting the need for comprehensive security controls beyond simple patching measures.