CVE-2026-12281
Deferred Deferred - Pending Action

Shibboleth Plugin Authentication Bypass via Spoofed Headers

Publication date: 2026-07-15

Last updated on: 2026-07-15

Assigner: WPScan

Description
The Shibboleth WordPress plugin before 2.5.4 does not fail closed when its HTTP header identity mode is enabled without an anti-spoofing key, treating any request that carries identity headers as an authenticated session without verifying them. On a deployment where untrusted client headers reach the application, an unauthenticated attacker can log in with forged identity headers and, when automatic account creation and the default administrator role mapping are enabled, create and sign in as a new administrator. Exploitation requires the non-default HTTP header attribute mode, an empty or absent spoof key, automatic account creation enabled, and a deployment that does not strip untrusted client headers before they reach the application.

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Meta Information

Published
2026-07-15
Last Modified
2026-07-15
Generated
2026-08-04
AI Q&A
2026-07-15
EPSS Evaluated
2026-08-03
NVD
CVE-2026-12281
EUVD
EUVD-2026-44594

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
shibboleth wordpress_plugin to 2.5.4 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE
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KEV
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CWE ID Description
CWE-287 When an actor claims to have a given identity, the product does not prove or insufficiently proves that the claim is correct.

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Executive Summary

This vulnerability affects the Shibboleth WordPress plugin before version 2.5.4. When HTTP header identity mode is enabled without an anti-spoofing key, the plugin fails to verify identity headers. This allows unauthenticated attackers to forge headers and log in as administrators if automatic account creation and default role mapping are enabled.

Detection Guidance

Check if the Shibboleth WordPress plugin version is below 2.5.4. Inspect server logs for unusual administrator account creation events or forged identity headers. Verify if HTTP header identity mode is enabled without an anti-spoofing key.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could create a new administrator account and gain full control of your WordPress site. This could lead to website defacement, data theft, malware distribution, or complete takeover of your site and its users.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and data breaches, violating GDPR and HIPAA requirements for access control and data protection. Organizations may face fines and legal consequences for non-compliance.

Mitigation Strategies

Update the Shibboleth plugin to version 2.5.4 or later. Ensure an anti-spoofing key is configured if using HTTP header identity mode. Disable automatic account creation and review administrator role mappings.

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