CVE-2025-11499

Comprehensive Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-11499

1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation

Vulnerability Description: The Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB – WPForms, CF7, Gravity, Forminator, Fluent plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to missing file type validation in the set_featured_image_from_external_url() function. This vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.1.32.

Severity Evaluation: The CVSS score of 9.8 indicates a critical vulnerability. This high score is due to the potential for unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files, which can lead to remote code execution (RCE) under certain conditions. The severity is amplified by the lack of authentication required to exploit the vulnerability.

2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods

Attack Vectors:

• Unauthenticated File Upload: An attacker can exploit the vulnerability by uploading malicious files to the server without needing any authentication.
• Remote Code Execution (RCE): If the uploaded file contains executable code, the attacker can execute arbitrary commands on the server, leading to full system compromise.

Exploitation Methods:

• Exploit Scripts: Attackers can use automated scripts to target vulnerable WordPress sites, uploading malicious files such as PHP scripts that can execute commands on the server.
• Phishing Campaigns: Attackers may use phishing techniques to trick users into visiting malicious sites that exploit this vulnerability.

3. Affected Systems and Software Versions

Affected Systems:

• WordPress sites using the Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB plugin versions up to and including 1.1.32.

Software Versions:

• All versions of the Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB plugin up to and including 1.1.32.

4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies

Immediate Actions:

• Update the Plugin: Immediately update the Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB plugin to a version higher than 1.1.32 if available.
• Disable the Plugin: If an update is not available, consider disabling the plugin until a patched version is released.

Long-Term Mitigations:

• Regular Updates: Ensure all WordPress plugins and themes are regularly updated to the latest versions.
• Access Controls: Implement strict access controls and authentication mechanisms to prevent unauthorized access.
• File Upload Validation: Ensure that all file uploads are validated for file type and content to prevent arbitrary file uploads.
• Web Application Firewalls (WAF): Deploy WAFs to monitor and block suspicious activities, including unauthorized file uploads.

5. Impact on Cybersecurity Landscape

Broader Implications:

• Widespread Use: Given the widespread use of WordPress and its plugins, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to a large number of websites.
• Attack Surface: The vulnerability increases the attack surface for WordPress sites, making them more susceptible to attacks.
• Reputation and Trust: Compromised websites can lead to loss of reputation and trust among users, potentially resulting in financial and legal repercussions.

6. Technical Details for Security Professionals

Vulnerable Function:

• The set_featured_image_from_external_url() function in the wp-post-creation.php file lacks proper file type validation, allowing arbitrary file uploads.

Code Analysis:

• File Path: wp-post-creation.php
• Line Number: 309
• Issue: The function does not validate the file type of the uploaded file, allowing any file type to be uploaded.

References:

• WordPress Plugin Repository
• Changeset Details
• Wordfence Threat Intelligence

Conclusion: CVE-2025-11499 represents a critical vulnerability that requires immediate attention from WordPress site administrators. The potential for unauthenticated arbitrary file uploads leading to RCE underscores the need for robust security practices, including regular updates, strict access controls, and comprehensive file validation mechanisms. Security professionals should prioritize mitigation efforts to protect against this vulnerability and ensure the integrity and security of affected systems.