WordPress powers over 40% of websites globally, making it a prime target for cyber threats. While the platform continuously improves security, vulnerabilities in core files, plugins, and themes expose websites to attacks. Cybercriminals actively seek out weaknesses in WordPress websites to exploit them for data theft, malware distribution, and website defacement. The increasing sophistication of attacks means that even seemingly minor security flaws can lead to devastating consequences for businesses and individuals.

Website administrators must stay vigilant as threats evolve and implement robust security practices. Regular software updates, strong authentication methods, and continuous monitoring are crucial in mitigating risks. In February 2025, researchers identified several critical vulnerabilities that pose serious risks to WordPress users. Understanding these threats is essential for website owners to take proactive security measures and protect their online assets. Continuous monitoring is not just a task, it's a reassurance that you're aware of potential threats and ready to act.

The CVE-2025-1128 is a highly critical security vulnerability discovered in “The Everest Forms – Contact Forms, Quiz, Survey, Newsletter & Payment Form Builder for WordPress” plugin that allows unrestricted upload of files with dangerous types, potentially enabling malicious actors to compromise WordPress websites with minimal effort. With a base score of 9.8 on the CVSS scale, this vulnerability represents one of the most severe security risks a web application can face, indicating the potential for complete system compromise. The vulnerability's network-based attack vector (AV:N) means that attackers can exploit this weakness remotely without requiring physical access to the target system.

The critical nature of this vulnerability stems from its low complexity (AC:L) and the fact that no user interaction or privileged access is required (PR:N/UI:N) to execute a potential attack, making it exceptionally dangerous for WordPress site administrators. Attackers can upload arbitrary file types, including executable scripts, malware, or web shells, which could lead to unauthorized access, data theft, website defacement, or complete system takeover. The vulnerability impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the system, as reflected in the CVSS score's high (H) ratings for each critical security component.

CVE-2025-0181, CVE-2025-0316, and CVE-2025-1061 are critical authentication bypass vulnerabilities affecting the WP Foodbakery, Nextend Social Login Pro, and WP Directorybox Manager plugins for WordPress. With a CVSS base score of 9.8, these flaws pose a serious security threat, allowing attackers to bypass authentication and gain unauthorized access.

The root cause lies in weaknesses within the plugins' access control mechanisms, enabling attackers to exploit alternative authentication channels. As a result, malicious actors can trick the system into granting unauthorized access without valid credentials, potentially elevating privileges or accessing sensitive functionality without going through the standard login process.

Given the high CVSS score, these vulnerabilities present a severe risk that can be remotely exploited with minimal technical expertise. Attackers could take complete control of a compromised WordPress site, modify content, install malware, or steal user data.

With a network-based attack vector (AV:N) and low complexity (AC: L), these vulnerabilities can be exploited from anywhere on the Internet without requiring advanced skills. Administrators using the affected plugins should immediately update to patched versions, strengthen access controls, and conduct thorough security audits to mitigate potential threats.

These vulnerabilities create a significant security risk by compromising authentication and access control protocols. They enable attackers to bypass traditional authentication methods and gain unauthorized access to WordPress sites.

CVE-2025-0180 is a critical vulnerability in the WP Foodbakery plugin for WordPress, stemming from improper privilege management. A CVSS base score of 9.8 poses a severe security risk by allowing unauthorized users to escalate their privileges due to flaws in the plugin's access control mechanisms. Exploiting this vulnerability could grant attackers higher-level permissions that should be restricted to authorized users.

The impact is significant, as attackers could gain administrative access, enabling them to modify content, change settings, or install malicious software. This vulnerability is network-based (AV:N), which can be exploited remotely without physical access. Additionally, with low attack complexity (AC:L) and no user interaction required (UI:N), it is easy to exploit, making it an attractive target for malicious actors.

By bypassing standard access controls, attackers could completely control a compromised WordPress site, manipulate user roles, and access sensitive data without detection. Site administrators may find it difficult to prevent unauthorized actions, as attackers could alter permissions without triggering security alerts.

Given the critical nature of this vulnerability, WordPress administrators using the WP Foodbakery plugin should immediately update to the latest patched version. Failure to do so could expose their sites to unauthorized access, data breaches, or complete site compromise. This issue underscores the importance of adequately configuring user roles and permissions within WordPress plugins to maintain robust security.

The vulnerabilities identified in February 2025 highlight the ongoing risks WordPress site owners face. Regular updates, strong security practices, and proactive monitoring are essential to keeping websites safe from cyber threats. Neglecting security can lead to data breaches, financial losses, and reputational damage.

Consider using Quttera’s WordPress security and protection services to ensure your WordPress site remains protected. We offer advanced malware scanning, real-time threat detection, and comprehensive security solutions tailored for WordPress websites.

By integrating robust security measures, you can safeguard your site against evolving cyber threats and maintain a secure online presence.