CVE-2026-18230
Deferred Deferred - Pending Action

SQL Injection in WP Directory Kit WordPress Plugin

Vulnerability report for CVE-2026-18230, including description, CVSS score, EPSS score, affected products, exploitability, helpful resources, and attack-flow context.

Publication date: 2026-08-12

Last updated on: 2026-08-26

Assigner: WPScan

Description

The WP Directory Kit WordPress plugin before 1.5.6 does not sanitise and escape a parameter before using it in a SQL statement through one of its authenticated AJAX actions, which lacks an authorization check, allowing any authenticated user such as a Subscriber to perform SQL injection attacks.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
Percentile:

Meta Information

Published
2026-08-12
Last Modified
2026-08-26
Generated
2026-09-01
AI Q&A
2026-08-12
EPSS Evaluated
2026-08-31
NVD
EUVD

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
wp_directory_kit wp_directory_kit to 1.5.6 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE
CWE Icon
KEV
KEV Icon
CWE ID Description
CWE-89 The product constructs all or part of an SQL command using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended SQL command when it is sent to a downstream component. Without sufficient removal or quoting of SQL syntax in user-controllable inputs, the generated SQL query can cause those inputs to be interpreted as SQL instead of ordinary user data.

Attack-Flow Graph

AI Quick Actions

Instant insights powered by AI
Executive Summary

The WP Directory Kit WordPress plugin before version 1.5.6 has a SQL injection vulnerability. It occurs because the plugin does not properly sanitize and escape a parameter called 'section' when using it in a SQL query. This happens through an authenticated AJAX action that lacks authorization checks, allowing any logged-in user, even with basic roles like Subscriber, to inject malicious SQL code.

Detection Guidance

Check the installed version of the WP Directory Kit plugin. If it is below 1.5.6, the system is vulnerable. Use commands like 'wp plugin list' in WordPress or inspect the plugin files for version details.

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability allows attackers with even low-level access to your WordPress site to manipulate your database. They could steal sensitive data, modify or delete content, or take control of your website. Since it affects authenticated users, the risk is higher if your site has many subscribers or low-privilege accounts.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access and exposure of personal data, violating GDPR and HIPAA requirements for data protection. If exploited, it may result in data breaches, leading to legal penalties, fines, and reputational damage for organizations handling sensitive information.

Mitigation Strategies

Update the WP Directory Kit plugin to version 1.5.6 or later immediately. If updating is not possible, consider disabling the plugin until an update is applied to prevent exploitation.

Chat Assistant

Ask questions about this CVE
Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-18230. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.
0/70

EPSS Chart