Plugin-navn	esri-map-view
Type of Vulnerability	Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
CVE Number	CVE-2025-6259
Hastighed	Lav
CVE Publish Date	2025-08-05
Source URL	View Source

Critical Security Alert: Cross-Site Scripting Vulnerability in WordPress esri-map-view Plugin (≤ 1.2.3)

A recently disclosed security vulnerability has been identified in the widely used esri-map-view WordPress plugin affecting all versions up to and including 1.2.3. This vulnerability is classified as stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) and can be exploited by any user with Contributor-level or higher privileges.

This blog post explores every critical aspect of this vulnerability, what it means for your WordPress website’s security, how it is exploited, and practical defensive measures you can implement today to protect your site. Our perspective, grounded in strong WordPress security experience, aims at equipping you with actionable insights and a solid understanding of this threat.

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Understanding the esri-map-view Plugin Vulnerability

What is esri-map-view?

The esri-map-view plugin is a useful tool for adding interactive Esri (Environmental Systems Research Institute) maps to WordPress websites through a shortcode interface. It provides webmasters with a user-friendly capability to embed dynamic maps that leverage Esri’s mapping technology.

Nature of the Vulnerability: Stored Cross-Site Scripting

The vulnerability in question is a Stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw. Unlike reflected XSS, stored XSS occurs when malicious code input by an attacker is permanently stored on the target server — typically in a database or other persistent storage — and served to all users who access that content without proper sanitization.

In this specific case, the esri-map-view shortcode does not properly sanitize inputs that contributor-level users enter, allowing for the injection and storage of malicious JavaScript code. When any visitor (including administrators or editors) views the infected page or post, the malicious script executes in their browser context.

Who Can Exploit This?

• User Privilege Required: Contributor-level users or higher. This means attackers must first gain access to an account with contributor or greater capabilities.
• Attack Vector: Insertion of malicious script payloads inside the esri-map-view shortcode parameters.

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Implications and Risks for Your WordPress Site

Why Is Stored XSS Dangerous?

Stored XSS vulnerabilities are especially dangerous in WordPress environments because:

• Persistent Attack: The malicious code remains on your website until manually removed or a patch is applied.
• Udførelse af ondsindet script: This can range from stealing sensitive cookies, session tokens, or credentials to performing unauthorized actions on behalf of users (Stored XSS is often used for privilege escalation).
• SEO Impact: Injected spam or redirects can damage your SEO ranking and lead to blacklisting from search engines.
• Malwaredistribution: Attackers can force redirects to malware-hosting domains or display unwanted advertisements.

Realistic Attack Scenario:

An attacker with a contributor-level account (which can be obtained through weak registration controls, phishing, or previous compromises) could embed malicious JavaScript inside the shortcode on a post or page. When administrators or visitors load this content, their browsers execute the injected script. This can enable things like:

• Stealing platform credentials or session cookies.
• Injecting rogue advertisements or affiliate fraud links.
• Performing actions on behalf of authorized users, such as modifying posts, changing settings, or creating new users.
• Downloading and installing malware within the WordPress environment.

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Why Is There No Official Patch Yet?

As of this writing, no official security patch has been released by the plugin’s development team. This is a critical risk because:

• Your WordPress site remains exposed.
• Delay increases chances of exploitation as hackers often scan public vulnerability databases for unpatched targets.
• Security-conscious administrators must look to alternative mitigation strategies immediately.

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Severity Rating & CVSS Score Analysis

This vulnerability carries a CVSS v3.1 base score of 6.5, classified as Medium severity. Although it might appear moderate, the following factors amplify its risk:

• Ability to run arbitrary JavaScript in users’ browsers.
• Requires only Contributor level access (often easier to obtain than administrator accounts).
• Persistent (stored) vulnerability affecting multiple users.
• No available official fix increases risk exposure duration.

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How to Detect If Your Site Is Affected?

• Identify Plugin Version: Check if you have esri-map-view versions 1.2.3 or lower installed.
• Audit Contributor Posts: Review posts or pages containing the esri-map-view shortcode, examine shortcode parameters for unusual or suspicious code, especially JavaScript fragments.
• Scan for Anomalies: Use comprehensive malware scanning tools capable of detecting XSS payloads.
• Check Plugin Updates: Monitor official sources for any announced patches.

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Recommended Mitigation and Defensive Steps

While waiting for an official patch release, WordPress administrators and security teams should consider the following defensive practices:

1. Restrict Contributor Access

If possible, limit who can get or maintain contributor-level accounts. Enforce strong registration policies and manual approval processes to minimize potential attacker accounts.

2. Sanitize and Validate Inputs

Check all usages of the esri-map-view shortcode manually or via automated scripts. Sanitize any user-entered parameters and remove suspicious entries that could contain JavaScript or HTML injections.

3. Disable the Plugin Temporarily

If your workflow allows, disable or remove the esri-map-view plugin until an official patch or update is available. This might break map functionality but removes the attack vector.

4. Implementer en Web Application Firewall (WAF)

Deploy a capable WordPress firewall to block malicious payloads server-side before they reach vulnerable areas. Firewalls can detect suspicious script injections and block them proactively.

5. Monitor User Roles & Activities

Keep vigilant monitoring on contributors’ activities to detect any anomalous behavior such as frequent shortcode changes or suspicious post content.

6. Educate Your Users

Ensure all users, especially contributors, are aware of the potential dangers of inserting untrusted content and follow sanitization best practices when adding shortcode parameters.

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The Role of Virtual Patching and WAFs in This Scenario

A compelling solution to this ongoing risk is virtuel patching — a technique where security rules proactively intercept and block known exploit attempts without modifying the vulnerable plugin’s source code.

• Virtual patching through a WordPress Web Application Firewall stops malicious payloads targeting this specific shortcode vulnerability.
• Provides immediate protection that spans across all users and roles without waiting for the plugin’s official update.
• Works invisibly in the background with zero downtime and no impact on legitimate site functionality.

Virtual patching is a professional-grade security measure highly recommended for WordPress sites where vulnerabilities surface without available patches.

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Long-Term Security Hygiene: Protecting Your WordPress Environment

Beyond this specific issue, these best practices will strengthen your security posture against similar vulnerabilities:

• Minimal Privilege Principle: Assign the lowest required privileges to all users.
• Regular Plugin Audits: Periodically review plugins for active vulnerabilities and uninstall or replace outdated or poorly maintained plugins.
• Automatiserede sikkerhedsscanninger: Schedule recurrent scans using reliable malware and vulnerability detection tools.
• Harden User Input Handling: Encourage developers and administrators to sanitize and validate all user inputs, including shortcode parameters.
• Stay Informed: Follow trusted WordPress security news sources for real-time vulnerability disclosures.

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What to Do If You Suspect Your Site Has Already Been Compromised

If you discover signs of compromise or suspect exploitation of this vulnerability:

• Isolate the Site: Temporarily take the site offline or to maintenance mode.
• Conduct Comprehensive Malware Scan: Utilize deep scanning tools with capabilities to detect and remove malicious scripts.
• Check User Accounts: Inspect and reset credentials for contributor and higher roles.
• Restore Clean Backups: If possible, roll back to a known clean state dated before the exploitation.
• Update and Harden: Once cleaned, update all plugins and themes to their latest versions, implement web application firewalls, and tighten access controls.
• Engage Security Experts: When necessary, consult experienced WordPress security professionals for incident response.

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Staying Ahead: Why Proactive Security is Critical

This esri-map-view stored XSS vulnerability is a potent reminder that WordPress ecosystem security requires:

• Continuous vigilance for new vulnerabilities.
• Timely reaction and mitigation upon disclosure.
• Layered security approach incorporating access control, scanning, and firewalling.

Waiting passively for plugin patches places your site and users under preventable risk. Active hardening and the use of sophisticated defenses like virtual patching offer the best path forward.

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Protect Your WordPress Website with WP-Firewall’s Basic Free Plan

You don’t have to be powerless against unpatched vulnerabilities. The WP-Firewall Basic (Free) Plan equips your WordPress site with essential protective features to shield against common and emerging threats, including vulnerabilities like the esri-map-view stored XSS.

What You Get With the Free Plan:

• Managed WordPress firewall deployed specifically to intercept malicious requests.
• Unlimited bandwidth ensuring your security doesn’t throttle site performance.
• Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules targeting OWASP Top 10 risks — including XSS attacks.
• Built-in malware scanner continually checking for suspicious activity.
• Easy setup with no technical overhead, empowering site owners of all levels.

This free-tier protection offers peace of mind and a powerful baseline security posture while you plan upgrades or await official plugin patches.

Secure your WordPress site now with WP-Firewall Free Plan »

Upgrade options are available if your site demands deeper automation, such as automatic malware removal, IP blacklisting, vulnerability virtual patching, and comprehensive monthly security reports.

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Afsluttende tanker

Security vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins like esri-map-view serve as a harsh reminder: no plugin, no matter how useful, is immune to security flaws. Protecting your website requires a multi-layered approach, constant vigilance, and the willingness to act swiftly.

As attackers continue to innovate, WordPress site owners must leverage advanced security tools, enforce strict user privilege management, and stay informed about new threats.

By understanding this stored XSS vulnerability and the feasible mitigations detailed here, you are better positioned to defend your site proactively and ensure a safe browsing experience for your users.

Stay secure. Stay informed. And let your WordPress site thrive without compromise.

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For additional expert guidance and to implement robust security without hassle, visit WP-Firewall’s official site and start protecting your site today.

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References

• CVE-2025-6259 — Stored Cross-Site Scripting in esri-map-view plugin (≤ 1.2.3)
• OWASP Top 10: A7 – Cross-Site Scripting (XSS)
• WordPress Security Best Practices & Input Sanitization
• Web Application Firewall and Virtual Patching Techniques

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Written by WP-Firewall Security Team — Experts in WordPress cybersecurity and proactive vulnerability mitigation.