CVE-2025-12751 in WSChat Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 11/19/2025
The WSChat – WordPress Live Chat plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the 'reset_settings' AJAX endpoint in all versions up to, and including, 3.1.6. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to reset the plugin's settings.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 11/19/2025
The WSChat WordPress Live Chat plugin presents a critical authorization vulnerability that undermines the security posture of WordPress installations. This vulnerability exists within the plugin's AJAX endpoint designated for resetting plugin settings, where the developers failed to implement proper capability checks. The flaw affects all versions up to and including 3.1.6, making it a widespread concern across numerous WordPress deployments that utilize this live chat solution. The vulnerability classification aligns with CWE-863, which addresses "Incorrect Authorization" where an actor is able to access resources or perform actions for which they are not authorized.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of permission validation within the reset_settings AJAX endpoint. When an authenticated user accesses this endpoint, the system does not verify whether the requesting user possesses sufficient privileges to modify core plugin configurations. This oversight allows attackers with Subscriber-level access or higher to exploit the functionality and reset all plugin settings without proper authorization. The vulnerability is particularly concerning because it operates at the administrative interface level, where users with minimal privileges can potentially disrupt plugin functionality and compromise system integrity.
Operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data modification, as it can lead to significant service disruption and potential security degradation. An attacker with Subscriber access can reset plugin configurations, potentially removing custom settings, disabling critical features, or reverting to default configurations that may expose additional vulnerabilities. This capability enables attackers to systematically undermine the plugin's functionality, making it difficult for legitimate administrators to maintain consistent service delivery. The vulnerability also creates opportunities for attackers to establish persistent access patterns by resetting configurations that might contain security measures or monitoring capabilities. According to ATT&CK framework technique T1078.004, which covers legitimate credentials, this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate system configurations using legitimate administrative interfaces, potentially masking their activities within normal operational patterns.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate attention from WordPress administrators and security teams. The most effective immediate solution involves updating to the latest available version of the WSChat plugin where the capability check has been implemented. Administrators should also review user permissions and ensure that only trusted users with appropriate privileges maintain access to the WordPress administrative interface. Network-level monitoring should be enhanced to detect unusual patterns of configuration changes, particularly around administrative endpoints. Additionally, implementing role-based access controls that restrict access to administrative functions beyond what is necessary for user roles can significantly reduce the attack surface. Security teams should also consider implementing automated patch management processes to ensure timely deployment of security updates across all WordPress installations. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and access control mechanisms, particularly in administrative interfaces where privilege escalation opportunities can lead to broader system compromise. Organizations should conduct comprehensive security audits of their WordPress plugins to identify similar authorization gaps that may exist in other third-party components.