CVE-2025-12391 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability (CWE-862) in the Restrictions for BuddyPress plugin developed by seventhqueen for WordPress. The vulnerability exists in the handle_optin_optout() function, which manages user opt-in and opt-out preferences for tracking. Due to the absence of proper capability checks, unauthenticated attackers can invoke this function remotely to alter tracking preferences without any authentication or user interaction. This flaw affects all versions up to and including 1.5.2 of the plugin. The vulnerability does not expose confidential data nor does it affect system availability but compromises the integrity of tracking settings, potentially allowing attackers to manipulate user consent states. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.3 (medium), reflecting network attack vector, low complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability could be leveraged to undermine privacy controls or skew analytics data. The plugin is widely used in WordPress environments that integrate BuddyPress social networking features, making it relevant for websites relying on user tracking and consent management.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized modification of user tracking preferences, potentially violating GDPR and other privacy regulations that mandate explicit user consent for tracking. Manipulated opt-in/out states could result in non-compliance fines or reputational damage if users’ privacy choices are overridden. Additionally, inaccurate tracking data may affect business analytics and decision-making. While the vulnerability does not directly expose sensitive data or disrupt service availability, the integrity compromise of consent mechanisms is significant in privacy-sensitive environments. Organizations relying on Restrictions for BuddyPress to manage user consent on their WordPress sites should consider the risk of unauthorized changes that could impact compliance and trust. The lack of authentication requirement and ease of exploitation increase the urgency for mitigation.

Since no official patch links are currently available, organizations should monitor the vendor’s announcements for updates addressing this vulnerability. In the interim, administrators can implement custom authorization checks by modifying the plugin code to verify user capabilities before allowing opt-in/out changes. Restricting access to the affected function via web application firewall (WAF) rules or IP whitelisting can reduce exposure. Regularly audit plugin activity logs to detect unusual opt-in/out modifications. Consider disabling the Restrictions for BuddyPress plugin if it is not essential or replacing it with alternative plugins that enforce proper authorization. Ensure WordPress core and all plugins are kept up to date. Finally, review privacy policies and user consent mechanisms to confirm compliance despite potential manipulation attempts.