CVE-2026-54823 in Widget Options Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/25/2026
Contributor Remote Code Execution (RCE) in Widget Options <= 4.2.3 versions.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/25/2026
The vulnerability identified as contributor remote code execution in Widget Options plugin versions up to 4.2.3 represents a critical security flaw that allows unauthenticated attackers to execute arbitrary code on affected WordPress installations. This issue stems from insufficient input validation and sanitization within the plugin's handling of user-supplied data, particularly when processing widget options. The vulnerability specifically affects scenarios where contributors or users with lower privileges can manipulate widget configurations through the WordPress admin interface.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability occurs through improper authorization checks and lack of proper nonce verification during widget option updates. When a contributor attempts to modify widget settings, the plugin fails to validate whether the user has appropriate permissions to perform such actions. This oversight creates an entry point where malicious actors can craft specially crafted requests that bypass standard access controls. The flaw operates at the application layer and leverages the WordPress plugin architecture to execute code within the context of the web server process.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability enables attackers to gain full control over compromised WordPress sites without requiring administrative credentials. Attackers can leverage this privilege escalation to install backdoors, steal sensitive data, modify content, or use the compromised site as a launching point for further attacks within the network. The vulnerability affects not just individual sites but can potentially be exploited at scale given the widespread adoption of the Widget Options plugin across thousands of WordPress installations. The impact extends beyond immediate code execution to include potential data exfiltration and service disruption.
Security mitigation strategies should focus on immediate plugin updates to versions that address the authorization bypass and input validation issues. Organizations must also implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls and access control lists to limit exposure. Additionally, regular security audits of WordPress plugins and themes are essential to identify similar vulnerabilities. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-862 weakness category related to insufficient authorization checks and maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 for executing commands through compromised systems. Administrators should also consider implementing role-based access controls and regularly review user permissions to minimize potential attack surface.
The broader implications of this vulnerability highlight the importance of proper input validation and authentication checks in WordPress plugin development. It demonstrates how seemingly minor oversight in permission handling can lead to significant security breaches. Organizations should establish comprehensive security testing procedures that include code reviews for authorization logic and automated scanning for common vulnerabilities in third-party components. Regular monitoring of security advisories and timely patch management remain critical defensive measures against such exploits.