CVE-2024-56259 in AyeCode Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/02/2025
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in AyeCode - WP Business Directory Plugins GeoDirectory allows Stored XSS.This issue affects GeoDirectory: from n/a through 2.3.84.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/20/2025
This vulnerability represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw in the GeoDirectory plugin for WordPress, specifically within the AyeCode suite of business directory tools. The issue manifests as improper input neutralization during web page generation, creating a persistent stored XSS attack vector that can compromise user sessions and execute malicious code in the context of affected websites. The vulnerability exists in versions ranging from an unspecified initial version through 2.3.84, indicating a long-standing exposure period that could have allowed attackers to exploit this weakness for extended periods.
The technical flaw stems from the plugin's failure to properly sanitize and escape user-controllable input before incorporating it into dynamically generated web pages. When users submit data through various plugin interfaces such as business listings, reviews, or directory entries, the system does not adequately validate or escape special characters that could be interpreted as HTML or JavaScript code. This allows attackers to inject malicious scripts that persist in the database and execute whenever affected pages are rendered for other users. The stored nature of this vulnerability means that the malicious payloads remain active even after the initial injection, making it particularly dangerous for business directory platforms where user-generated content is prevalent.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can lead to complete session hijacking, data theft, and potential full compromise of affected WordPress installations. Attackers could exploit this weakness to steal administrator credentials, modify directory listings, inject malicious advertisements, or redirect users to phishing sites. The vulnerability affects the core functionality of business directory plugins where users expect to submit and view information about businesses, making it particularly attractive to threat actors targeting small to medium enterprises that rely on such platforms for their online presence. The stored nature of the XSS means that the impact persists until the vulnerability is patched, potentially affecting all users who view compromised content.
Mitigation strategies should prioritize immediate patching of the GeoDirectory plugin to version 2.3.85 or later, as this represents the official fix for the vulnerability. Organizations should also implement additional defensive measures including input validation at multiple layers, content security policies to prevent script execution, and regular security scanning of plugin installations. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for social engineering through malicious web content. Network segmentation and monitoring for suspicious script injections can provide additional detection capabilities, while regular security audits should verify that all plugins and themes maintain current security standards. Administrators should also consider implementing web application firewalls to provide an additional layer of protection against exploitation attempts.