CVE-2025-11519 is an authorization bypass vulnerability classified under CWE-639 (Authorization Bypass Through User-Controlled Key) found in the Optimole WordPress plugin, which is used for image optimization, conversion, CDN delivery, and lazy loading. The vulnerability exists in the /wp-json/optml/v1/move_image REST API endpoint, where the plugin fails to properly validate a user-controlled key parameter. This improper validation allows authenticated users with Author-level privileges or higher to perform actions on media files they do not own, specifically enabling them to offload or move images outside their authorized scope. The flaw is an insecure direct object reference (IDOR), a common web application security issue where access controls are insufficiently enforced on object identifiers. The vulnerability affects all versions up to 4.1.0 of the plugin. Exploitation requires the attacker to be authenticated with at least Author privileges, which is a moderate barrier but still feasible in many WordPress environments where multiple users have elevated roles. The CVSS v3.1 score is 4.3, indicating medium severity, with the vector showing network attack vector, low attack complexity, privileges required, no user interaction, and an impact limited to integrity (no confidentiality or availability impact). No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the vulnerability poses a risk to the integrity of media assets managed by the plugin. Organizations using this plugin should monitor for updates and consider access restrictions or compensating controls until patched.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized manipulation or offloading of media assets on WordPress sites using the Optimole plugin. While it does not directly compromise confidential data or availability, unauthorized media access can undermine content integrity, potentially damaging brand reputation or violating compliance requirements related to content management. Attackers with Author-level access could exploit this to modify or redistribute media assets, which may be used for defacement, misinformation, or to facilitate further attacks. Organizations with multiple content authors or contributors are at higher risk, especially if role assignments are not tightly controlled. The impact is more pronounced for media-heavy websites such as e-commerce, news, or marketing platforms prevalent in Europe. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of image optimization plugins, the vulnerability could affect a broad range of sectors including retail, media, and public institutions. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as exploit code could be developed. Compliance with GDPR and other European data protection regulations may also be implicated if media content includes personal data or is part of user-generated content workflows.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the use of the Optimole plugin and verify the version in use. Until an official patch is released, administrators should restrict Author-level and higher privileges to trusted users only, minimizing the attack surface. Implementing strict role-based access controls and reviewing user permissions can reduce the risk of exploitation. Additionally, organizations can disable or restrict access to the /wp-json/optml/v1/move_image REST API endpoint via web application firewalls (WAFs) or custom rules to block unauthorized API calls. Monitoring logs for unusual activity related to media offloading or REST API usage can help detect attempted exploitation. Keeping WordPress core and all plugins updated is critical; organizations should apply the patch as soon as it becomes available. For high-risk environments, consider isolating media storage or using separate authentication mechanisms for media management. Finally, educating content authors about the risks of elevated privileges and enforcing strong authentication policies will further mitigate potential abuse.