CVE-2025-10646 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization) found in the Search Exclude plugin for WordPress, developed by quadlayers. The flaw exists in the Base::get_rest_permission() method, which fails to enforce sufficient capability checks before allowing modification of plugin settings via REST API endpoints. This deficiency enables any authenticated user with at least Contributor-level privileges to bypass intended authorization controls and alter plugin configurations, specifically by adding arbitrary posts to the search exclusion list. This could be leveraged to manipulate which content appears in site search results, potentially hiding critical posts or misleading users. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 2.5.7 and was published on November 25, 2025. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium), reflecting that the attack vector is network-based with low attack complexity, requiring privileges (Contributor or higher), no user interaction, and impacts integrity only, without affecting confidentiality or availability. No patches or known exploits are currently available, but the vulnerability's presence in a widely used WordPress plugin raises concerns for website integrity and trustworthiness. The issue highlights the importance of robust authorization checks in REST API endpoints, especially in multi-user content management environments.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2025-10646 lies in the integrity of website content and search functionality. Attackers with Contributor-level access can manipulate search results by excluding specific posts, which could be exploited to hide critical information, mislead users, or disrupt content discovery. This may affect e-commerce sites, news portals, educational platforms, and corporate websites relying on WordPress and the Search Exclude plugin. While the vulnerability does not directly compromise sensitive data confidentiality or site availability, the ability to alter search behavior can undermine user trust and damage organizational reputation. Additionally, organizations with strict content governance or regulatory compliance requirements may face indirect consequences if manipulated search results lead to misinformation or non-compliance. The medium severity score suggests a moderate risk, but the ease of exploitation by authenticated users means insider threats or compromised contributor accounts could be leveraged effectively.

Organizations should immediately audit WordPress sites for the presence of the Search Exclude plugin and verify the installed version. Until an official patch is released, restrict Contributor-level user permissions to trusted personnel only, minimizing the risk of unauthorized configuration changes. Implement monitoring and alerting on plugin setting changes, especially modifications to the search exclusion list, using WordPress activity logs or third-party monitoring tools. Consider temporarily disabling the Search Exclude plugin if it is not critical to site operations. Review and harden REST API access controls by applying custom capability checks or using security plugins that enforce stricter authorization. Educate content contributors about the risks of account compromise and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as MFA. Once a patch becomes available, prioritize prompt application to remediate the vulnerability. Regularly update all WordPress plugins and core software to reduce exposure to similar authorization issues.