CVE-2025-23931 in Local SEO Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 01/22/2025
Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command ('SQL Injection') vulnerability in NotFound WordPress Local SEO allows Blind SQL Injection. This issue affects WordPress Local SEO: from n/a through 2.3.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 01/22/2025
The vulnerability CVE-2025-23931 represents a critical SQL injection flaw within the WordPress Local SEO plugin that enables attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands through improperly sanitized input parameters. This weakness falls under the Common Weakness Enumeration category CWE-89, which specifically addresses SQL injection vulnerabilities where special elements are not properly neutralized in SQL command contexts. The vulnerability exists in the WordPress Local SEO plugin version 2.3 and earlier, creating a persistent risk for websites utilizing this particular software component.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows for blind SQL injection attacks, meaning that attackers can infer information from the database through indirect responses rather than direct data retrieval. This type of injection occurs when user-supplied input is directly concatenated into SQL queries without proper sanitization or parameterization. The flaw likely manifests in query parameters or input fields that handle location data, business information, or other localized content that the plugin processes. Attackers can exploit this vulnerability by crafting malicious input that alters the intended SQL query execution flow, potentially leading to unauthorized database access, data exfiltration, or complete system compromise.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it provides attackers with the capability to manipulate or destroy database content, extract sensitive information, or establish persistent access points within affected systems. WordPress installations using the vulnerable Local SEO plugin become susceptible to various attack vectors including but not limited to credential theft, data manipulation, and potential privilege escalation. The blind nature of the injection means that attackers must carefully construct their payloads and interpret responses to gather meaningful information, making the attack more sophisticated but no less dangerous. This vulnerability particularly affects local business websites that rely heavily on SEO plugins to manage their online presence and customer engagement.
Organizations should immediately update their WordPress installations to the latest version of the Local SEO plugin to mitigate this vulnerability. The recommended mitigation strategy includes implementing proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent SQL injection attacks. Security measures should also include monitoring database logs for unusual query patterns, implementing web application firewalls, and conducting regular security assessments of WordPress plugins and themes. Additionally, administrators should follow the ATT&CK framework's T1190 technique for exploiting vulnerabilities in web applications and ensure that all third-party components are regularly updated and audited for security issues. The vulnerability underscores the critical importance of maintaining up-to-date software components and implementing robust security practices in WordPress environments.