Overview
This article details a critical security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-66086, affecting the SMS Alert Order Notifications WordPress plugin. This vulnerability, a Missing Authorization issue, allows for potential Exploiting Incorrectly Configured Access Control Security Levels. The affected versions range from n/a through version 3.8.8.
Technical Details
The vulnerability stems from a lack of proper authorization checks within the SMS Alert Order Notifications plugin. This means that certain functionalities, such as accessing or modifying order notification settings, may be accessible to unauthorized users or roles if incorrectly configured. An attacker could potentially exploit this flaw to manipulate SMS notifications, potentially leading to information disclosure, unauthorized access, or other malicious activities.
Specifically, the plugin fails to adequately verify the user’s permissions before allowing them to perform sensitive actions related to SMS notification management. This allows users with lower privileges to gain access to higher-level functionalities if the access control is incorrectly configured.
CVSS Analysis
Currently, the CVSS score and severity for CVE-2025-66086 are listed as N/A. However, the description suggests a potential for significant impact. It’s important to note that a lack of a formal CVSS score doesn’t diminish the potential risk. Given the nature of the vulnerability (Missing Authorization leading to incorrect access control), it should be treated with high priority.
Possible Impact
The potential impact of this vulnerability includes:
- Information Disclosure: Unauthorized users could gain access to sensitive order information through manipulated notifications.
- Unauthorized Access: Attackers may be able to modify notification settings, potentially disrupting the intended functionality of the plugin.
- Reputational Damage: Exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to a loss of trust from customers and damage to your website’s reputation.
- Financial Loss: In cases where SMS notifications are crucial for order fulfillment, manipulation of these notifications could lead to financial losses.
Mitigation and Patch Steps
The primary mitigation step is to immediately update the SMS Alert Order Notifications plugin to the latest version as soon as a patch is released by the developers. Check the WordPress plugin repository or the plugin developer’s website for updates.
In the interim, while awaiting a patch, consider the following:
- Review User Roles and Permissions: Carefully examine the roles and permissions assigned to users on your WordPress site. Ensure that only authorized personnel have access to sensitive plugin settings.
- Monitor Plugin Activity: Keep a close eye on the plugin’s activity logs for any suspicious behavior.
- Disable the Plugin: If you are unable to update the plugin immediately and are concerned about the risk, temporarily disabling the plugin is a viable option.
