CVE-2026-14995
Received Received - Intake

Stored XSS in Autoptimize WordPress Plugin

Publication date: 2026-10-01

Last updated on: 2026-10-01

Assigner: Wordfence

Description
The Autoptimize plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting via REQUEST_URI Path in all versions up to, and including, 3.1.15.1 due to insufficient input sanitization and output escaping. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to inject arbitrary web scripts in pages that will execute whenever a user accesses an injected page. Exploitation requires the Critical CSS feature to be active with a valid API key configured, as this is the precondition for unauthenticated frontend requests to trigger queue entries via ao_ccss_enqueue().

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Meta Information

Published
2026-10-01
Last Modified
2026-10-01
Generated
2026-10-01
AI Q&A
2026-10-01
EPSS Evaluated
N/A
NVD
CVE-2026-14995
EUVD
EUVD-2026-90560

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
autoptimize autoptimize to 3.1.15.1 (inc)

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

The Autoptimize WordPress plugin has a stored Cross-Site Scripting (XSS) vulnerability due to improper input sanitization and output escaping. Attackers can inject malicious scripts into web pages that execute when users visit those pages. Exploitation requires the Critical CSS feature to be active with a valid API key.

Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check if the Autoptimize plugin is installed and verify its version. If it is version 3.1.15.1 or lower, it is vulnerable. Ensure the Critical CSS feature is active with a valid API key, as this is required for exploitation.

Impact Analysis

Unauthenticated attackers can inject arbitrary scripts into pages. When users access these pages, the scripts execute, potentially stealing user data, session cookies, or performing actions on behalf of the user. This can lead to account compromise or unauthorized access.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to data breaches, violating GDPR's data protection requirements and HIPAA's safeguards for protected health information. Organizations may face fines, legal penalties, and reputational damage due to non-compliance.

Mitigation Strategies
  • Update the Autoptimize plugin to the latest version, which patches the vulnerability.
  • Disable the Critical CSS feature if it is currently enabled.
  • Remove any unauthorized API keys configured for the Critical CSS feature.

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