CVE-2026-57762 in Simple URLs Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/02/2026
Author Cross Site Scripting (XSS) in Simple URLs <= 151 versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/02/2026
Simple URLs is a popular WordPress plugin designed to simplify URL management and redirection within WordPress websites. This plugin allows administrators to create custom URL mappings and redirects without requiring extensive technical knowledge of web development or server configuration. The plugin has been widely adopted across thousands of WordPress installations due to its straightforward interface and functionality for managing website navigation and content access patterns.
The vulnerability identified as author cross site scripting in Simple URLs versions up to 151 represents a critical security flaw that stems from inadequate input validation and output sanitization within the plugin's codebase. This specific weakness occurs when the plugin processes user-supplied data, particularly in author-related fields or URL parameters, without properly escaping or validating the content before rendering it back to users. The vulnerability exists because the plugin fails to implement proper security measures that would prevent malicious scripts from being executed within the browser context of authenticated users who access affected pages.
The technical implementation of this XSS flaw allows attackers with sufficient privileges to inject malicious JavaScript code into URL configurations or author metadata fields. When legitimate users access pages that display these manipulated URLs, their browsers execute the injected scripts in the context of their authenticated sessions. This creates a severe risk where attackers can steal session cookies, perform unauthorized actions on behalf of victims, manipulate website content, or redirect users to malicious sites. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it targets authenticated users with administrative privileges, potentially allowing full compromise of affected WordPress installations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple script execution as it creates a persistent threat vector that can be exploited across multiple WordPress environments. Attackers who gain access through this XSS flaw can leverage the compromised sessions to modify plugin settings, create additional malicious redirects, or establish backdoor access points within the website infrastructure. The attack surface is broad since many WordPress installations use Simple URLs for critical navigation functions, making it a prime target for exploitation. This vulnerability also demonstrates poor security practices in software development and highlights the importance of implementing comprehensive input validation throughout all application components.
Security professionals should note that this vulnerability aligns with CWE-79 (Cross-site Scripting) which specifically addresses improper neutralization of input during web page generation. The flaw also maps to ATT&CK technique T1213.002 (External Remote Services) as it allows attackers to compromise systems through web-based interfaces and then maintain persistence within network environments. Mitigation strategies should include immediate plugin updates to versions that address the XSS vulnerability, implementation of Content Security Policy headers to limit script execution, and regular security audits of third-party plugins to ensure they meet current security standards.
Organizations using Simple URLs should prioritize patching their installations as soon as version 152 or later becomes available, which contains the necessary security fixes. Additionally, administrators should implement proper input validation at multiple layers including database entry points, API endpoints, and user interface components where URL data is processed. Network monitoring solutions should be configured to detect anomalous script execution patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability also underscores the importance of maintaining updated security practices including regular plugin reviews, implementing least privilege access controls, and establishing robust incident response procedures for handling security incidents in WordPress environments.