What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Hostel plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Reflected Cross-Site Scripting via the 'shortcode_id' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 1.1.6 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that execute if they can successfully trick a user into performing an action such as clicking on a link.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
Hostel versions up to 1.1.6 contain a cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerability that allows attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages. The vulnerability requires user interaction—victims must visit a crafted link or page. When exploited, the attacker can steal session cookies, redirect users, or perform actions on their behalf. The impact extends beyond the vulnerable component to affect other parts of the application.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Inject malicious scripts that execute in a victim's browser and steal their session or perform unauthorized actions.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Users visiting crafted links could have their sessions hijacked or be redirected to malicious sites; site reputation at risk.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Victim must click a malicious link or visit an attacker-controlled page; no authentication required.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
April 18, 2026
CVE published
April 20, 2026
Record updated