The Async JavaScript plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Stored Cross-Site Scripting in versions up to, and including, 2.19.07.14. This is due to missing authorization checks on the aj_steps AJAX aciton along with a lack on sanitization on the settings saved via the function. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with subscriber level permissions and above to inject malicious web scripts into a page that execute whenever a user accesses that page.
CVE-2020-36854 is a medium severity with CVSS 6.4 Stored Cross-Site Scripting issue affecting the Plugin Async JavaScript. It affects Versions before 2.20.02.27 and is fixed in 2.20.02.27.
Use the related hub and response guides to connect this CVE-2020-36854 report with patch validation, scanner checks, and site hardening work.
Open the grouped hub for related CVEs, affected ranges, severity mix, and patch coverage.
Check access, XML-RPC exposure, backup readiness, and monitoring after patching.
Use containment, evidence capture, remediation, and validation steps when exploit risk is high.
CVE-2020-36854 is tracked for the Plugin Async JavaScript as medium severity with CVSS 6.4. The affected range is Versions before 2.20.02.27. Update Async JavaScript to 2.20.02.27 or newer where that version is compatible with the site.
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Affected version data gives operators a concrete comparison point against installed WordPress software.
A fixed version is present, so the page can answer update and remediation intent directly.
External references are available for source validation, advisory review, and incident notes.
Use these checks when converting this record into a patch ticket, incident note, or risk acceptance decision.
Inventory the installed Plugin package and compare its version with Versions before 2.20.02.27.
Confirm Async JavaScript is updated to 2.20.02.27 or newer.
Review references and CVSS vector details for exploitability, authentication requirements, and exposure path.
After patching, re-run vulnerability monitoring and keep the related plugin or theme hub under review for follow-up CVEs.
| Software Type | Plugin |
|---|---|
| Software Slug |
async-javascript
View on wordpress.org
|
| CVE | CVE-2020-36854 |
| Patched Versions |
2.20.02.27
|
| Affected Versions |
Versions before 2.20.02.27
|
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