What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Simple Download Counter plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via the 'sdc_menu' shortcode in all versions up to, and including, 2.3. This is due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping on user-supplied shortcode attributes, specifically the 'text' and 'cat' attributes. The 'text' attribute is output directly into HTML content on line 159 without any escaping (e.g., esc_html()). The 'cat' attribute is used unescaped in HTML class attributes on lines 135 and 157 without esc_attr(). 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
Simple Download Counter versions 2.3 and earlier 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. Low-privileged accounts can exploit this without user interaction.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Inject malicious scripts that execute in other users' browsers and modify site content or steal session data.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Authenticated users can inject scripts affecting other visitors; may lead to credential theft or site defacement.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privileged account on the site; no user interaction required from victims.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
March 26, 2026
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated
