CVE-2026-39697
Missing Authorization in HBSS MAIO AI GEO/SEO Tool
Publication date: 2026-04-08
Last updated on: 2026-04-29
Assigner: Patchstack
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
| Probability: | |
| Percentile: |
Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| hbss_technologies | maio_the_new_ai_geo_seo_tool | to 6.2.8 (inc) |
| patchstack | maio_the_new_ai_geo_seo_tool | From 6.2.8 (inc) to 6.3.6 (inc) |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-862 | The product does not perform an authorization check when an actor attempts to access a resource or perform an action. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
How does this vulnerability affect compliance with common standards and regulations (like GDPR, HIPAA)?:
The vulnerability CVE-2026-39697 is a Broken Access Control issue in the MAIO WordPress plugin, allowing unauthorized users to perform privileged actions. Such missing authorization controls can potentially lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or system functions.
While the provided information does not explicitly mention compliance with standards like GDPR or HIPAA, broken access control vulnerabilities generally pose risks to data confidentiality and integrity, which are critical requirements under these regulations.
Therefore, if exploited, this vulnerability could negatively impact compliance with regulations that mandate strict access controls and protection of personal or sensitive data.
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
CVE-2026-39697 is a Broken Access Control vulnerability in the WordPress plugin "MAIO – The new AI GEO / SEO tool" affecting versions up to and including 6.3.6.
This vulnerability arises from missing authorization, authentication, or nonce token checks, which allows unauthenticated users to perform actions that should be restricted to higher privileged users.
It is classified as an OWASP Top 10 A1 issue and has a CVSS score of 5.3, indicating a low severity impact.
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
This vulnerability allows unauthorized users to perform privileged actions on affected websites using the MAIO plugin, potentially compromising site integrity or functionality.
Although the CVSS score is low (5.3) and it is considered unlikely to be exploited with significant effect, it has been observed in mass-exploit campaigns targeting many websites indiscriminately.
No official patch is currently available, so immediate mitigation involves updating the plugin or seeking assistance from hosting providers or web developers.
How can this vulnerability be detected on my network or system? Can you suggest some commands?
This vulnerability is a Broken Access Control issue in the WordPress plugin "MAIO – The new AI GEO / SEO tool" allowing unauthenticated users to perform privileged actions. Detection typically involves checking for unauthorized access attempts or unusual activity related to this plugin.
Since no specific detection commands or signatures are provided, it is recommended to monitor web server logs for suspicious requests targeting the MAIO plugin endpoints or unusual privilege escalation attempts.
Additionally, scanning the WordPress installation to verify the plugin version (up to and including 6.3.6) can help identify vulnerable instances.
Example commands to check the plugin version on a WordPress site might include:
- Using WP-CLI to list installed plugins and their versions: wp plugin list
- Searching web server logs for suspicious requests: grep -i 'maio' /var/log/apache2/access.log
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
The immediate mitigation step is to update the affected MAIO plugin to a version that addresses the vulnerability. However, no official patch is currently available.
If updating is not possible, users should seek assistance from their hosting provider or web developer to implement temporary access control measures or workarounds.
Additionally, monitoring and restricting access to the plugin's functionality and endpoints can help reduce the risk of exploitation.
It is also advisable to stay informed through security intelligence services like Patchstack for any future patches or mitigation advice.