Overview
The CVE-2025-5305 vulnerability is a major cybersecurity risk that affects users of the Password Reset with Code for WordPress REST API WordPress plugin. This vulnerability stems from the plugin’s use of insecure algorithms to generate One-Time Password (OTP) codes, which could potentially lead to account takeovers. As WordPress powers over 40% of all websites on the internet, this vulnerability could put a significant number of users and businesses at risk, making it a high-priority issue for cybersecurity professionals and website administrators.
Vulnerability Summary
CVE ID: CVE-2025-5305
Severity: Critical, CVSS Score 9.8
Attack Vector: Network
Privileges Required: None
User Interaction: Required
Impact: Potential system compromise or data leakage
Affected Products
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Product | Affected Versions
Password Reset with Code for WordPress REST API WordPress plugin | Before 0.0.17
How the Exploit Works
The exploit targets the insecure OTP code generation process of the Password Reset with Code for WordPress REST API WordPress plugin. An attacker can predict or brute force the OTP code due to the use of weak algorithms, thereby gaining unauthorized access to user accounts. With this access, the attacker could alter system settings, steal sensitive data, or take complete control of the WordPress site.
Conceptual Example Code
Below is a conceptual example of how an attacker might exploit this vulnerability. This pseudocode outlines a brute force attack on the OTP code.
for potential_otp in all_possible_otps:
response = send_http_request(
method='POST',
url='https://target.example.com/wp-json/password-reset-with-code/v1/reset',
headers={'Content-Type': 'application/json'},
data={'username': 'victim', 'otp': potential_otp}
)
if response.status_code == 200:
print(f'Success! The OTP is {potential_otp}')
breakPlease note that this is a simplified example and real-world attacks might involve more sophisticated techniques and obfuscation methods.
In the end, to mitigate this vulnerability, users should update the plugin to version 0.0.17 or later as soon as possible. If an update is not possible, using a Web Application Firewall (WAF) or Intrusion Detection System (IDS) can offer temporary protection. However, these are only stop-gap measures and updating the plugin should be the priority.
