CVE-2026-12869
Deferred Deferred - Pending Action

JavaScript Injection in Header Footer Builder for Elementor

Publication date: 2026-07-16

Last updated on: 2026-07-16

Assigner: WPScan

Description
The Header Footer Builder for Elementor WordPress plugin before 1.2.1 does not require an administrative capability for its dashboard template-import action (it allows any edit_posts user), so a Contributor can import a template containing an Elementor HTML widget configured to display site-wide, injecting JavaScript that executes in the session of any visitor or administrator who loads the site.

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Meta Information

Published
2026-07-16
Last Modified
2026-07-16
Generated
2026-08-05
AI Q&A
2026-07-16
EPSS Evaluated
2026-08-04
NVD
CVE-2026-12869
EUVD
EUVD-2026-44878

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
header_footer_builder header_footer_builder_for_elementor to 1.2.1 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-79 The product does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes user-controllable input before it is placed in output that is used as a web page that is served to other users.

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Executive Summary

This vulnerability is a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) flaw in the Header Footer Builder for Elementor WordPress plugin before version 1.2.1. It allows Contributor-level users to inject malicious JavaScript via a template import feature that lacks proper capability checks. The injected script executes when any site visitor or administrator loads a page.

Detection Guidance

Check if the Header Footer Builder for Elementor plugin is installed and its version is below 1.2.1. You can use WordPress admin dashboard or run commands like 'wp plugin list' in WP-CLI to verify the version. Also inspect user roles with 'edit_posts' capability to identify potential Contributor-level users who could exploit this.

Impact Analysis

If you are a WordPress site administrator, an attacker with Contributor access could inject malicious scripts that steal cookies, session tokens, or sensitive data from visitors and admins. This could lead to account takeovers, defacement, or further compromise of your website.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could violate GDPR by exposing user data through script injection, leading to unauthorized access or data breaches. For HIPAA, it may compromise protected health information if exploited on healthcare-related sites, risking compliance with security requirements.

Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update the Header Footer Builder for Elementor plugin to version 1.2.1 or later. If updating is not possible, consider disabling the plugin temporarily. Review and restrict Contributor-level user roles to prevent unauthorized template imports. Monitor for suspicious activity in the WordPress dashboard.

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