CVE-2025-23935 in Magic Google Maps Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/16/2025
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Magic Plugin Factory Magic Google Maps allows Stored XSS.This issue affects Magic Google Maps: from n/a through 1.0.4.
Once again VulDB remains the best source for vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/10/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-23935 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Magic Google Maps plugin for WordPress, specifically affecting versions ranging from the initial release through 1.0.4. This weakness falls under the category of improper input neutralization during web page generation, creating a persistent security risk that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users. The vulnerability's classification aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting attacks where input data is not properly sanitized before being rendered in web browsers. The stored nature of this XSS vulnerability means that malicious payloads are permanently saved within the application's database and executed whenever affected pages are accessed, rather than requiring immediate interaction with a vulnerable input field.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs through the manipulation of input parameters that are subsequently processed and displayed within the plugin's user interface. Attackers can craft malicious scripts that get stored in the plugin's data storage mechanisms, which then get executed in the context of other users' browsers when they view pages containing the compromised content. This particular implementation allows for persistent script execution because the vulnerable plugin does not adequately sanitize user-supplied data before storing it in the database. The attack vector typically involves submitting malicious input through forms or data entry points within the plugin's administrative interface or frontend components, where the data is then stored and later retrieved for display. The vulnerability's impact is amplified by the fact that it affects the core functionality of Google Maps integration, which often involves dynamic content rendering and user interaction elements that provide multiple potential injection points.
The operational impact of this stored XSS vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft or session hijacking to encompass potential complete system compromise and data exfiltration. An attacker who successfully exploits this vulnerability can execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of authenticated users, potentially gaining access to administrative functions, stealing session cookies, or redirecting users to malicious sites. The vulnerability's persistence means that once exploited, the malicious scripts continue to execute for all users who access the compromised pages until the malicious content is removed from the database. This creates a long-term security risk that can persist even after the initial attack window has closed, as the stored payloads remain active and continue to affect users who encounter the compromised content. The vulnerability's scope is particularly concerning given that it affects a widely used plugin, potentially exposing thousands of WordPress installations to similar risks.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2025-23935 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the XSS vulnerability, as this represents the most effective remediation approach. Organizations should implement comprehensive input validation and output encoding mechanisms to prevent malicious data from being stored or executed within the application. The implementation of Content Security Policy headers can provide additional protection against script execution, while regular security audits of plugin code can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other components. According to ATT&CK framework category T1190 for exploit public-facing application, this vulnerability represents a prime example of how unpatched web application flaws can be exploited to establish persistent access. Security teams should also consider implementing web application firewalls to detect and block malicious input patterns, while maintaining regular monitoring of plugin repositories for security updates and advisories. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the critical importance of keeping all web application components updated and the necessity of implementing robust input sanitization practices across all user-facing application interfaces.