CVE-2025-0724 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-502 (Deserialization of Untrusted Data) affecting the ProfileGrid – User Profiles, Groups and Communities plugin for WordPress, versions up to and including 5.9.4.5. The vulnerability stems from the get_user_meta_fields_html function, which deserializes PHP objects from user-controllable input without proper validation or sanitization. This unsafe deserialization allows authenticated attackers with at least Subscriber-level privileges to inject crafted PHP objects. However, the vulnerability alone does not guarantee code execution or other severe impacts because the plugin itself lacks a gadget POP (Property Oriented Programming) chain necessary to trigger malicious behavior. Exploitation depends on the presence of another plugin or theme installed on the WordPress site that contains a suitable POP chain, which can be leveraged to perform destructive actions such as arbitrary file deletion, sensitive data disclosure, or remote code execution. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without user interaction and requires low attack complexity, as indicated by the CVSS vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N). The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to 5.9.4.5, and no patches or fixes are currently linked in the provided data. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the high CVSS score (8.8) underscores the critical nature of this vulnerability in environments where the POP chain condition is met.

If exploited, this vulnerability can lead to severe consequences for affected WordPress sites. Attackers with low-level authenticated access (Subscriber or higher) could escalate their privileges or execute arbitrary code, leading to full site compromise. Potential impacts include deletion of arbitrary files, exposure of sensitive user data, defacement, or complete takeover of the WordPress installation. This can disrupt business operations, damage reputation, and lead to data breaches. The requirement of a POP chain in another plugin or theme somewhat limits the scope, but many WordPress sites run multiple plugins and themes, increasing the risk. Given WordPress's widespread use globally, the vulnerability poses a significant threat to websites relying on ProfileGrid and other plugins that may provide the necessary POP chains. The vulnerability affects confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it a critical risk for organizations that host user data or rely on WordPress for community and profile management.

1. Immediately update the ProfileGrid plugin to a patched version once available from the vendor. 2. Until a patch is released, restrict Subscriber-level users from uploading or modifying data that could be deserialized by the vulnerable function. 3. Audit and minimize the number of installed plugins and themes, especially those known to contain POP chains or unsafe deserialization gadgets. 4. Implement Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious serialized PHP object payloads targeting the get_user_meta_fields_html function. 5. Employ strict input validation and sanitization on user inputs that reach deserialization routines. 6. Monitor logs for unusual activity from Subscriber-level accounts, such as unexpected serialized data submissions. 7. Consider disabling or removing the ProfileGrid plugin if it is not essential to reduce attack surface. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration tests focusing on deserialization vulnerabilities and plugin interactions. 9. Educate site administrators about the risks of installing untrusted plugins or themes that could introduce POP chains.