What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Phlox theme for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the `data-caption` HTML attribute in all versions up to, and including, 2.17.7 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. 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
Phlox versions up to 2.17.7 contain a stored cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability that allows authenticated users to inject malicious scripts. These scripts execute in the browsers of other site visitors, potentially compromising their sessions or stealing sensitive data. The vulnerability affects the site's scope, meaning impacts may extend beyond the vulnerable component itself.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Inject malicious scripts that execute in other users' browsers and steal their session data or credentials.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Authenticated users can inject persistent malicious code affecting all site visitors, risking account compromise and data theft.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privilege user account (e.g., contributor or subscriber role) on the site.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
January 6, 2026
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated