CVE-2025-0357 is a critical security vulnerability identified in the WPBookit plugin for WordPress, developed by Iqonic Design. The flaw resides in the 'WPB_Profile_controller::handle_image_upload' function, which fails to properly validate the types of files being uploaded. This insufficient validation allows an unauthenticated attacker to upload arbitrary files, including potentially malicious scripts, to the web server hosting the vulnerable WordPress site. Because the vulnerability requires no authentication or user interaction, it can be exploited remotely by anyone with network access to the site. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution (RCE), enabling attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise. The vulnerability affects all versions of WPBookit up to and including 1.6.9. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting the ease of exploitation and the severe impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability makes it a prime target for attackers once exploit code becomes available. The lack of a patch or official fix at the time of publication increases the urgency for organizations to implement interim mitigations.

The impact of CVE-2025-0357 is severe for organizations using the WPBookit plugin on their WordPress sites. Exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to take full control of the affected web server. This can result in data theft, website defacement, deployment of malware or ransomware, and use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. The confidentiality of sensitive customer and business data can be compromised, integrity of website content and backend systems can be destroyed or altered, and availability can be disrupted by denial-of-service conditions or malicious payloads. Organizations relying on WPBookit for booking or customer management services face operational disruptions and reputational damage. The vulnerability’s unauthenticated and remote exploitability significantly increases the attack surface, making it a critical risk for all affected sites worldwide.

To mitigate CVE-2025-0357, organizations should immediately disable the file upload functionality in the WPBookit plugin if possible until a vendor patch is released. Implement strict server-side validation to restrict allowed file types to safe image formats only (e.g., JPEG, PNG) and reject all other file types. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious file upload attempts targeting the vulnerable endpoint. Monitor server logs and file system changes for unauthorized uploads or execution of unknown scripts. Restrict file permissions on upload directories to prevent execution of uploaded files. Regularly update WordPress and all plugins to the latest versions once a patch is available. Consider isolating the WordPress environment using containerization or sandboxing to limit the impact of a potential compromise. Conduct security audits and penetration testing focused on file upload functionalities to identify similar weaknesses.