CVE-2026-8653 in MasterStudy LMS Pro Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/04/2026
The MasterStudy LMS Pro Plus plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to generic SQL Injection via the 'columns' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 4.8.20 due to insufficient escaping on the user supplied parameter and lack of sufficient preparation on the existing SQL query. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with instructor-level access or above, to append additional SQL queries into already existing queries that can be used to extract sensitive information from the database.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/04/2026
The MasterStudy LMS Pro Plus plugin for WordPress presents a critical security vulnerability classified as generic SQL Injection affecting versions up to and including 4.8.20. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input sanitization and insufficient query preparation mechanisms within the plugin's codebase. The flaw specifically manifests through the 'columns' parameter which fails to properly escape user-supplied data before incorporating it into existing SQL queries. Security researchers have identified this issue as a direct violation of secure coding practices that should prevent malicious SQL command injection attacks.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows authenticated attackers who possess instructor-level access or higher privileges to manipulate the plugin's database interactions. When an attacker submits malicious input through the 'columns' parameter, the insufficient escaping mechanism permits the injection of additional SQL commands that become part of the existing query structure. This creates a scenario where attackers can execute unauthorized database operations without proper authorization. The vulnerability operates at the database layer where the plugin processes user requests, making it particularly dangerous as it can bypass standard WordPress authentication mechanisms for database operations.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data extraction capabilities. Attackers with instructor-level access can leverage this flaw to perform comprehensive database reconnaissance, potentially accessing sensitive user information, course materials, and system configurations. The vulnerability creates a persistent threat vector that remains active as long as the affected plugin version is installed, providing attackers with ongoing access to database resources. This represents a significant risk to educational institutions and organizations relying on WordPress-based learning management systems, as it undermines the integrity and confidentiality of their digital learning environments.
Organizations should immediately implement mitigation strategies including patching to the latest plugin version where the vulnerability has been addressed, implementing network-level restrictions to limit access to the plugin's administrative interfaces, and conducting comprehensive database audits to identify any potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability aligns with CWE-89 which specifically addresses SQL injection flaws, and represents a technique commonly catalogued in ATT&CK framework under database access and credential access tactics. Regular security monitoring and input validation enforcement should be implemented as permanent safeguards to prevent similar vulnerabilities from emerging in other plugin components or custom code implementations.