WP User Manager Privilege Escalation via Paid Registration

Executive Summary

This vulnerability in the WP User Manager WordPress plugin (versions 2.9.21 to 2.9.25) allows unauthenticated users to register and immediately receive an administrator-equivalent role without completing payment. It occurs because the plugin fails to enforce paid registration restrictions after disconnecting the Stripe payment gateway.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Detection Guidance

Check if your WP User Manager plugin version is between 2.9.21 and 2.9.25. Use commands like 'wp plugin list' in WordPress CLI or inspect the plugin files for version details. Look for unauthorized administrator role assignments in user logs.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Impact Analysis

An attacker could exploit this to gain full administrative access to a WordPress site without paying, potentially taking control of the site, installing malware, stealing data, or defacing content. This could lead to complete compromise of the website and its users.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive user data, violating GDPR (data protection) and HIPAA (health data privacy) requirements. It may result in data breaches, unauthorized processing, and failure to maintain proper access controls.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0

Mitigation Strategies

Update the WP User Manager plugin to version 2.9.26 or later immediately. Disable the plugin temporarily if an update is not immediately available. Review user roles and remove any unauthorized administrator accounts.

Useful 0 Not Useful 0