CVE-2020-37225
CWE-79Published: May 13, 2026· Updated: May 13, 2026
Official Description
Powie's WHOIS Domain Check 0.9.31 contains a persistent cross-site scripting vulnerability that allows authenticated attackers to inject arbitrary JavaScript by exploiting unsanitized input fields in plugin settings. Attackers can submit malicious payloads through textarea and input elements in the pwhois_settings.php configuration page to execute JavaScript in the admin context and escalate privileges.
Technical Analysis
CVE-2020-37225 can be exploited remotely over the network without requiring physical or adjacent access, significantly expanding the attack surface for threat actors.
Exploitation requires low privileges, which limits the exposure to scenarios where an attacker has already gained initial access.
The vulnerability has a "Changed" scope, meaning successful exploitation can impact components beyond the vulnerable component itself — such as the host operating system or adjacent services.
From a weakness classification perspective (CWE-79): Cross-site scripting (XSS) vulnerabilities allow attackers to inject malicious scripts into web pages viewed by other users.
CVSS v3.1 Vector Breakdown
Affected Vendors & Products
Exploit & PoC Resources
All References (5)
Quick Facts
Related CVEs (CWE-79)
Recommended Actions
- →Apply vendor patches immediately
- →Monitor CVE-2020-37225 in threat intel feeds
- →Review IDS/IPS signatures for exploitation attempts