CVE-2025-4103 in WP-GeoMeta Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 05/31/2025
The WP-GeoMeta plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Privilege Escalation due to a missing capability check on the wp_ajax_wpgm_start_geojson_import() function in versions 0.3.4 to 0.3.5. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to elevate their privileges to that of an administrator.
VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/03/2025
The WP-GeoMeta plugin for WordPress presents a critical privilege escalation vulnerability that undermines the security model of WordPress installations. This vulnerability exists within the wp_ajax_wpgm_start_geojson_import() function, which fails to properly validate user capabilities before executing administrative operations. The flaw affects versions 0.3.4 through 0.3.5, creating a window of exposure where malicious actors with minimal privileges can exploit the system. The vulnerability represents a direct violation of the principle of least privilege, allowing unauthorized elevation of access rights that should remain restricted to privileged users only.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from the absence of capability checks within the AJAX handler function. When an authenticated user with subscriber-level permissions invokes the wp_ajax_wpgm_start_geojson_import() endpoint, the system does not verify whether the user possesses the necessary administrative privileges to perform geojson import operations. This missing validation creates a path for privilege escalation where the attacker can leverage the function to execute administrative commands that should require administrator-level access. The flaw operates at the application logic level, specifically within the WordPress AJAX handling mechanism, making it particularly insidious as it bypasses normal access control enforcement points.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple privilege escalation, potentially enabling attackers to gain complete administrative control over affected WordPress installations. Once elevated to administrator level, the attacker can modify plugin settings, upload malicious files, alter user permissions, and access sensitive data through the geojson import functionality. The vulnerability affects all users with subscriber-level access or higher, including contributors and editors, which significantly expands the potential attack surface. This type of vulnerability aligns with CWE-284, which describes improper access control, and represents a classic example of how missing authorization checks can lead to privilege escalation in web applications. The attack vector is particularly concerning because it requires minimal user interaction beyond authentication, making it suitable for automated exploitation.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate plugin updates to versions that address the capability check deficiency, as well as implementing additional access controls within the WordPress environment. Administrators should consider restricting access to the geojson import functionality through custom capabilities or role modifications, ensuring that only trusted users can access administrative features. Network-level controls such as firewall rules or WAF signatures can help detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this specific endpoint. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of proper input validation and capability checks in WordPress plugins, particularly those handling administrative operations. Organizations should also implement monitoring for unusual administrative activities and maintain regular security audits of installed plugins to identify similar issues. This vulnerability exemplifies the ATT&CK technique of privilege escalation through software vulnerabilities, where attackers exploit missing access controls to gain elevated system privileges. Regular security assessments and adherence to secure coding practices, including mandatory capability checks for all administrative functions, are essential to prevent similar issues in the future.