CVE-2025-28929 in Tabbed Login Widget Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/12/2025
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Vivek Marakana Tabbed Login Widget allows Stored XSS. This issue affects Tabbed Login Widget: from n/a through 1.1.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-28929 represents a critical cross-site scripting flaw within the Vivek Marakana Tabbed Login Widget plugin, specifically impacting versions ranging from the initial release through 1.1.2. This stored cross-site scripting vulnerability arises from inadequate input sanitization during the web page generation process, creating a persistent security risk that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into user sessions. The flaw resides in how the plugin processes and renders user-provided data within the login widget interface, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary JavaScript code in the context of other users' browsers.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper neutralization of input parameters that are subsequently rendered in web page content without adequate sanitization or encoding mechanisms. When users interact with the tabbed login widget, input data such as usernames, passwords, or other form fields may be stored in the plugin's database or session storage without proper validation. This stored data is then retrieved and displayed in subsequent page generations without appropriate HTML escaping or context-aware encoding, creating an environment where malicious scripts can be executed. The vulnerability operates at the application layer and can be exploited through persistent data injection attacks where malicious payloads are stored in the system and subsequently executed when legitimate users view the affected pages.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution, as it can enable attackers to hijack user sessions, steal sensitive authentication credentials, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of victims, and potentially escalate privileges within the affected system. Attackers can craft malicious payloads that exploit the stored XSS vulnerability by submitting crafted input through the login widget forms, which are then stored and executed when other users access the affected pages. This creates a persistent threat that can compromise multiple users over time, making the vulnerability particularly dangerous in multi-user environments where the plugin is widely deployed. The stored nature of the vulnerability means that even if the initial attack vector is closed, the malicious scripts remain active until manually removed from the system.
Security professionals should implement immediate mitigations including input validation and sanitization at all points where user data enters the system, particularly within web forms and data storage mechanisms. The recommended approach involves implementing proper HTML encoding for all dynamic content rendered in web pages, utilizing Content Security Policy (CSP) headers to restrict script execution, and ensuring that all user-provided input undergoes strict validation before being stored or displayed. Organizations should also consider applying the latest available patches or updates from the vendor, implementing network-based protections such as web application firewalls, and conducting thorough security assessments of all plugins and themes that handle user input. This vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting flaws, and maps to ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through spearphishing attachments or links, and T1071.001 for application layer protocol usage. The risk assessment should include consideration of the plugin's deployment scope and user base to determine the appropriate urgency for remediation activities.