What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Smart Slider 3 plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via 'slider' Block Attribute in all versions up to, and including, 3.5.1.38 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. The injected scripts execute specifically when a user opens the affected post in the WordPress block editor, making Editors and Administrators the primary targets.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
Smart Slider 3 versions up to 3.5.1.38 contain a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability that allows authenticated users to inject malicious scripts affecting other users. The vulnerability has a changed scope, meaning the impact extends beyond the vulnerable component itself. Site administrators should update to a version newer than 3.5.1.38 to remediate this issue.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Inject malicious scripts that execute in other users' browsers and affect the site's functionality.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Authenticated users can inject scripts affecting other visitors; potential for credential theft, malware distribution, or site defacement.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privilege account (e.g., subscriber or contributor role) on the site.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
August 28, 2026
CVE published
