Description
The CE21 Suite plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized plugin settings update due to a missing capability check on the wp_ajax_nopriv_ce21_single_sign_on_save_api_settings AJAX action in versions 2.2.1 to 2.3.1. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to update the plugin's API settings including a secret key used for authentication. This allows unauthenticated attackers to create new admin accounts on an affected site.
EPSS Score:
0%
Comprehensive Technical Analysis of EUVD-2025-37625
1. Vulnerability Assessment and Severity Evaluation
The vulnerability in the CE21 Suite plugin for WordPress, identified as EUVD-2025-37625 (CVE-2025-11007), is classified as a critical security issue. The Base Score of 9.8, according to CVSS 3.1, indicates a high severity due to the following factors:
- Attack Vector (AV:N): The vulnerability can be exploited over the network.
- Attack Complexity (AC:L): The attack requires low complexity.
- Privileges Required (PR:N): No privileges are required to exploit the vulnerability.
- User Interaction (UI:N): No user interaction is required.
- Scope (S:U): The impact is unchanged.
- Confidentiality (C:H): High impact on confidentiality.
- Integrity (I:H): High impact on integrity.
- Availability (A:H): High impact on availability.
The severity is further underscored by the potential for unauthenticated attackers to update plugin settings, including a secret key used for authentication, which can lead to the creation of new admin accounts.
2. Potential Attack Vectors and Exploitation Methods
The primary attack vector is through the wp_ajax_nopriv_ce21_single_sign_on_save_api_settings AJAX action, which lacks proper capability checks. This allows unauthenticated users to:
- Update Plugin Settings: Modify the plugin's API settings, including sensitive information like secret keys.
- Create Admin Accounts: With the updated settings, attackers can create new admin accounts, gaining full control over the affected WordPress site.
Exploitation methods may include:
- Automated Scripts: Attackers can use automated scripts to send malicious AJAX requests to vulnerable WordPress sites.
- Manual Exploitation: Manual crafting of HTTP requests to exploit the vulnerability.
3. Affected Systems and Software Versions
The vulnerability affects the CE21 Suite plugin for WordPress versions 2.2.1 to 2.3.1. All WordPress installations using these versions of the plugin are at risk.
4. Recommended Mitigation Strategies
To mitigate the risk, the following strategies are recommended:
- Update the Plugin: Immediately update the CE21 Suite plugin to a version higher than 2.3.1, where the vulnerability has been patched.
- Disable AJAX Actions: Temporarily disable the
wp_ajax_nopriv_ce21_single_sign_on_save_api_settingsAJAX action until the plugin is updated. - Monitor for Suspicious Activity: Implement monitoring to detect and respond to any suspicious AJAX requests or unauthorized admin account creations.
- Regular Audits: Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability assessments to identify and address similar issues.
5. Impact on European Cybersecurity Landscape
The vulnerability poses a significant threat to the European cybersecurity landscape, particularly for organizations and individuals using the CE21 Suite plugin. The potential for unauthenticated attackers to gain admin access can lead to:
- Data Breaches: Unauthorized access to sensitive data.
- Website Defacement: Modification or deletion of website content.
- Malware Distribution: Injection of malicious code to distribute malware.
- Reputation Damage: Loss of trust and credibility for affected organizations.
6. Technical Details for Security Professionals
Vulnerability Details:
- Affected Function:
wp_ajax_nopriv_ce21_single_sign_on_save_api_settings - Missing Capability Check: The function does not verify user permissions before updating settings.
- Impact: Allows unauthenticated users to update API settings, including secret keys, leading to the creation of new admin accounts.
Detection Methods:
- Log Analysis: Review WordPress logs for unusual AJAX requests to the
wp_ajax_nopriv_ce21_single_sign_on_save_api_settingsaction. - Intrusion Detection Systems (IDS): Implement IDS rules to detect and alert on suspicious AJAX requests.
Remediation Steps:
- Code Review: Ensure all AJAX actions in the plugin include proper capability checks.
- Patch Deployment: Apply the latest patch from the plugin vendor.
- Security Hardening: Implement additional security measures such as two-factor authentication (2FA) for admin accounts.
References:
By addressing this vulnerability promptly and thoroughly, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of unauthorized access and potential data breaches.