CVE-2020-11027 in WordPress
Summary
by MITRE
In affected versions of WordPress, a password reset link emailed to a user does not expire upon changing the user password. Access would be needed to the email account of the user by a malicious party for successful execution. This has been patched in version 5.4.1, along with all the previously affected versions via a minor release (5.3.3, 5.2.6, 5.1.5, 5.0.9, 4.9.14, 4.8.13, 4.7.17, 4.6.18, 4.5.21, 4.4.22, 4.3.23, 4.2.27, 4.1.30, 4.0.30, 3.9.31, 3.8.33, 3.7.33).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 05/06/2025
The vulnerability described in CVE-2020-11027 represents a critical security flaw in WordPress authentication mechanisms that undermines the integrity of password reset functionality. This issue affects multiple versions of the WordPress platform and creates a persistent security risk by allowing unauthorized access through compromised email accounts. The flaw specifically targets the password reset workflow where the system fails to invalidate previously generated reset links upon successful password changes, creating a window of opportunity for malicious actors to exploit.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper session management and link validation within WordPress's password recovery system. When a user requests a password reset, the system generates a unique reset link that should be invalidated immediately upon successful password change. However, in affected versions, the system maintains the validity of the reset link even after the user has changed their password, creating a persistent access vector. This behavior violates fundamental security principles of time-based credential validation and session termination, as outlined in CWE-613 and CWE-384. The flaw essentially creates a race condition where a reset link remains functional despite the user's legitimate password update, allowing potential attackers who gain access to the user's email to utilize the link even after the user has taken protective measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple credential theft, as it enables attackers to maintain unauthorized access to user accounts even after legitimate password changes have been made. This creates a persistent threat vector where compromised email accounts can be exploited to reset passwords and gain continued access to user data and system resources. The vulnerability particularly affects organizations that rely heavily on WordPress for content management, as it undermines the security of user authentication processes and can lead to data breaches, unauthorized modifications, and potential lateral movement within affected systems. According to ATT&CK framework category T1110, this vulnerability directly supports credential access techniques by providing a method for attackers to leverage compromised email accounts for unauthorized access. The risk is amplified when considering that many users may not immediately notice that their password has been reset by an attacker, especially if the reset occurs through legitimate email access.
The mitigation strategy for this vulnerability requires immediate deployment of patched WordPress versions, specifically 5.4.1 and the previously affected minor releases that have been updated through patch releases. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security assessments to identify potentially compromised accounts and implement additional email security measures including email encryption and monitoring for unauthorized reset requests. The fix implemented by WordPress developers addresses the core issue by ensuring that password reset links are properly invalidated upon successful password changes, which aligns with security best practices for session management and credential validation. System administrators should also consider implementing additional security controls such as two-factor authentication, email access monitoring, and user behavior analytics to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability serves as a reminder of the importance of proper session management and the critical need for timely patch deployment in maintaining secure authentication systems.