What the vulnerability does
01Description
The ST Categories Widget plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the plugin's st-categories shortcode in versions less than, or equal to, 1.0.0. This is due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user supplied attributes. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with contributor-level access and above, to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
ST Categories Widget versions up to 1.0.0 contain a cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows authenticated users to inject malicious scripts. The vulnerability has a changed scope, meaning injected code can affect other users and site functionality. An attacker with low-level site access can craft malicious input that executes in other users' browsers, potentially compromising their sessions or stealing data.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Inject JavaScript code that runs in other users' browsers and affects site functionality.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Authenticated users with low privileges can inject malicious scripts affecting other visitors and site operations.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privilege account on the site (e.g., subscriber or contributor role).
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
October 22, 2025
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated
