CVE-2025-11499 is a critical security vulnerability affecting the essekia Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB – WPForms, CF7, Gravity, Forminator, Fluent plugin for WordPress, present in all versions up to 1.1.32. The root cause is the lack of proper file type validation in the set_featured_image_from_external_url() function, which handles setting featured images from external URLs. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to upload arbitrary files to the server hosting the WordPress site. Because the vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, it is highly exploitable remotely. If the site configuration permits unauthenticated users to add featured images and triggers workflows based on these uploads, attackers can leverage this to execute remote code on the server, potentially gaining full control. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type), which is a common vector for web application compromise. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 9.8 reflects the critical nature of this vulnerability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. Although no public exploits are currently known, the combination of popular WordPress plugins affected and the ease of exploitation makes this a significant threat. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems, as attackers can upload malicious payloads, deface websites, steal data, or disrupt services. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing urgency for mitigation through configuration changes and monitoring.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a severe risk to the security of WordPress-based websites, especially those using the affected plugins for contact forms and data collection. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to deploy web shells, steal sensitive customer data, manipulate form submissions, or disrupt business operations. This can result in data breaches violating GDPR regulations, financial losses, reputational damage, and potential legal consequences. Public-facing websites of government agencies, financial institutions, healthcare providers, and e-commerce platforms are particularly at risk due to their reliance on WordPress and these plugins for user interaction. The ease of exploitation without authentication means attackers can rapidly compromise multiple sites, potentially leading to widespread defacements or malware distribution campaigns targeting European users. Additionally, compromised sites can be used as launchpads for further attacks within corporate networks or to distribute ransomware. The critical severity underscores the need for immediate attention to prevent exploitation and protect sensitive data and services.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the essekia Tablesome Table – Contact Form DB – WPForms, CF7, Gravity, Forminator, Fluent plugin and confirm the version in use. Until an official patch is released, administrators should disable or restrict the functionality allowing unauthenticated users to add featured images or upload files. Implement strict server-side file type validation and limit accepted file extensions to safe image formats only. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file upload attempts targeting this vulnerability. Monitor web server logs for unusual upload activity or requests to the set_featured_image_from_external_url() function. Restrict permissions on upload directories to prevent execution of uploaded files. Consider isolating WordPress instances in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromise occurs. Regularly back up website data and test restoration procedures. Once a patch becomes available, apply it promptly and verify the fix. Educate web administrators and developers about secure file upload practices and the risks of unrestricted file uploads. Engage in threat intelligence sharing within industry groups to stay informed about emerging exploits related to this vulnerability.