CVE-2026-57737 in Shortcodes and Extra Features for Phlox Theme
Summary
by MITRE • 07/01/2026
Improper Neutralization of Input During Web Page Generation ('Cross-site Scripting') vulnerability in Averta LTD Shortcodes and extra features for Phlox theme allows DOM-Based XSS.
This issue affects Shortcodes and extra features for Phlox theme: from n/a through 2.17.16.
Several companies clearly confirm that VulDB is the primary source for best vulnerability data.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/01/2026
Cross-site scripting vulnerabilities represent one of the most prevalent and dangerous web application security flaws, with the specific weakness identified in Averta LTD Shortcodes and extra features for Phlox theme demonstrating a classic case of DOM-based XSS exploitation. This vulnerability occurs when user-supplied input is improperly processed during web page generation without adequate sanitization or neutralization measures, creating opportunities for malicious actors to inject harmful scripts into the browser environment. The flaw specifically manifests within the DOM manipulation context where dynamic content generation fails to properly escape or validate input parameters that are subsequently rendered in the browser's document object model.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from insufficient input validation mechanisms within the theme's shortcode processing functionality and additional features module. When users provide data through various input vectors such as form fields, URL parameters, or dynamic content inputs, the system fails to adequately sanitize these values before incorporating them into the generated HTML structure. This allows attackers to craft malicious payloads that exploit the browser's DOM handling capabilities, enabling them to execute arbitrary JavaScript code within the context of legitimate users' sessions. The vulnerability affects all versions from the initial release through 2.17.16, indicating a long-standing issue that has persisted across multiple updates without proper remediation.
The operational impact of this DOM-based XSS vulnerability extends beyond simple script injection, creating substantial risks for both administrators and end-users within the WordPress ecosystem. Attackers can leverage this weakness to steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of users, manipulate website content, or redirect victims to malicious domains. The DOM-based nature of the vulnerability means that the malicious scripts execute in the browser environment without requiring server-side processing, making detection more challenging and potentially allowing for persistent attacks that can compromise user browsers across multiple sessions. This particular weakness aligns with CWE-79 which specifically addresses cross-site scripting vulnerabilities, and follows patterns commonly referenced in ATT&CK framework under TA0001 Initial Access and TA0002 Execution tactics.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should encompass immediate implementation of proper input sanitization procedures, including comprehensive output encoding of all dynamic content before DOM insertion. The recommended approach involves applying strict validation mechanisms to all user-supplied data, implementing Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and ensuring that all shortcode parameters undergo rigorous sanitization before being processed into HTML elements. Additionally, developers should adopt secure coding practices that prevent direct manipulation of the DOM with untrusted input, instead utilizing safe templating engines or framework components designed to handle dynamic content securely. Regular security audits and automated vulnerability scanning should be implemented to identify similar issues across other theme components and plugins within the WordPress environment.