Description
The Fox LMS – WordPress LMS Plugin plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to privilege escalation in all versions up to, and including, 1.0.5.1. This is due to the plugin not properly validating the 'role' parameter when creating new users via the `/fox-lms/v1/payments/create-order` REST API endpoint. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to create new user accounts with arbitrary roles, including administrator, leading to complete site compromise.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-203362
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability in the Fox LMS – WordPress LMS Plugin, identified as EUVD-2025-203362 (CVE-2025-14156), is a privilege escalation issue affecting all versions up to and including 1.0.5.1. The plugin fails to properly validate the 'role' parameter when creating new users via the /fox-lms/v1/payments/create-order REST API endpoint. This allows unauthenticated attackers to create new user accounts with arbitrary roles, including administrator, leading to complete site compromise.
Severity Evaluation:
- CVSS Base Score: 9.8
- CVSS Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H
The high CVSS score indicates a critical vulnerability due to the ease of exploitation (low complexity, no authentication required) and the severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
Attack Vectors:
- Unauthenticated Access: Attackers can exploit this vulnerability without needing any credentials.
- REST API Endpoint: The
/fox-lms/v1/payments/create-orderendpoint is the primary attack vector.
Exploitation Methods:
- Parameter Manipulation: Attackers can manipulate the 'role' parameter in the API request to create new user accounts with elevated privileges.
- Automated Scripts: Attackers can use automated scripts to send crafted API requests, creating multiple administrator accounts.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
Affected Software:
- Fox LMS – WordPress LMS Plugin
Affected Versions:
- All versions up to and including 1.0.5.1
Vendor:
- ays-pro
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
Immediate Actions:
- Update the Plugin: Upgrade to the latest version of the Fox LMS – WordPress LMS Plugin (1.0.5.2 or higher) which includes the fix for this vulnerability.
- Disable the REST API Endpoint: Temporarily disable the
/fox-lms/v1/payments/create-orderendpoint if an immediate update is not possible.
Long-Term Mitigations:
- Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits of all plugins and third-party integrations.
- Access Controls: Implement strict access controls and validation for all API endpoints.
- Monitoring: Use security monitoring tools to detect and respond to suspicious activities.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant risk to European organizations using the Fox LMS – WordPress LMS Plugin. Given the widespread use of WordPress and its plugins, this vulnerability could lead to large-scale compromises, including data breaches, unauthorized access, and potential financial losses. The European cybersecurity landscape must prioritize timely patching and robust security practices to mitigate such risks.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Endpoint:
/fox-lms/v1/payments/create-order - Parameter: 'role'
- Issue: Lack of proper validation for the 'role' parameter.
Exploitation Steps:
- Identify the Target: Locate a WordPress site using the vulnerable version of the Fox LMS plugin.
- Craft the Request: Create a POST request to the
/fox-lms/v1/payments/create-orderendpoint with a manipulated 'role' parameter. - Send the Request: Use tools like
curlor automated scripts to send the request. - Verify the Account: Check if the new user account with elevated privileges has been created.
Detection and Response:
- Log Analysis: Monitor API logs for unusual activity, especially unauthorized user creation.
- Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Deploy IDS to detect and alert on suspicious API requests.
- Incident Response Plan: Have a predefined incident response plan to quickly address any detected exploitation attempts.
References:
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and implementing robust security measures, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of compromise and ensure the integrity of their WordPress sites.