CVE-2026-25035 in Contest Gallery Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/25/2026
Authentication Bypass Using an Alternate Path or Channel vulnerability in Wasiliy Strecker / ContestGallery developer Contest Gallery contest-gallery allows Authentication Abuse.This issue affects Contest Gallery: from n/a through <= 28.1.2.2.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/31/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-25035 represents a critical authentication bypass flaw within the Contest Gallery plugin developed by Wasiliy Strecker. This weakness manifests as an alternate path or channel attack vector that allows unauthorized users to circumvent the standard authentication mechanisms. The vulnerability exists in versions of the plugin ranging from the initial release through version 28.1.2.2, indicating a prolonged period during which the security flaw remained unaddressed. The issue specifically targets the authentication system of the contest-gallery plugin, enabling malicious actors to gain unauthorized access to protected resources and functionality.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from improper handling of authentication checks within the plugin's code structure. When users attempt to access restricted areas of the contest gallery system, the application fails to properly validate credentials through the primary authentication channel. Attackers can exploit this by utilizing alternative access paths that bypass the standard login mechanisms, effectively creating a backdoor into the system. This type of vulnerability falls under the CWE-284 access control weakness category, specifically addressing improper access control through alternate channels. The flaw demonstrates a failure in the principle of least privilege and proper authentication enforcement, allowing attackers to abuse the system's access controls through indirect methods.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple unauthorized access, potentially enabling attackers to manipulate contest data, modify user permissions, and access sensitive administrative functions. An attacker exploiting this vulnerability could gain access to contestant submissions, alter contest results, or even take control of the entire contest gallery system. The scope of potential damage increases significantly when considering that the vulnerability affects a widely used contest management plugin, potentially exposing numerous websites and their associated user data to unauthorized access. This authentication bypass creates a persistent security risk that could remain undetected for extended periods, allowing attackers to maintain access and conduct further malicious activities.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2026-25035 must focus on immediate remediation through plugin updates to versions that address the authentication bypass flaw. System administrators should implement comprehensive monitoring to detect any suspicious access patterns that might indicate exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 legitimate credentials, as attackers can leverage the bypassed authentication to maintain persistent access. Organizations should also consider implementing additional security controls such as network segmentation, enhanced logging, and regular security audits of their contest gallery installations. Given the nature of the vulnerability, it is essential to conduct thorough penetration testing to identify any additional attack vectors that may have been exploited. The remediation process should include not only updating the plugin but also reviewing and strengthening the overall authentication architecture of the affected systems to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other components.