CVE-2025-12628 identifies a cryptographic weakness in the WP 2FA WordPress plugin, specifically related to the generation of backup codes used for two-factor authentication (2FA). The vulnerability is classified under CWE-331, indicating insufficient entropy in the generation of security tokens. Backup codes are intended as a fallback mechanism for users who cannot access their primary 2FA device, and their security depends heavily on unpredictability. In this case, the plugin generates backup codes with inadequate randomness, making them susceptible to brute force attacks. An attacker who obtains or guesses these codes can bypass the second factor, effectively reducing the security of the login process to single-factor authentication. The affected product is WP 2FA, a popular plugin for WordPress sites, although the affected versions are not explicitly detailed beyond '0', suggesting early or all versions prior to a fix may be vulnerable. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no exploits have been reported in the wild. The vulnerability was published on November 24, 2025, and assigned by WPScan. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for immediate attention from site administrators. This flaw compromises the integrity and confidentiality of user accounts by enabling unauthorized access through brute forcing backup codes, which are typically shorter and less complex than primary 2FA tokens. The attack does not require user interaction beyond the initial login attempt and can be automated, increasing the risk of exploitation.

For European organizations, this vulnerability threatens the confidentiality and integrity of user accounts protected by WP 2FA. Many European businesses, government agencies, and e-commerce platforms rely on WordPress and its security plugins to protect sensitive data and customer information. A successful brute force attack on backup codes could lead to unauthorized access to administrative accounts, resulting in data breaches, defacement, or further lateral movement within networks. The impact is particularly severe for organizations subject to GDPR, as unauthorized access could lead to regulatory penalties and reputational damage. Additionally, sectors such as finance, healthcare, and public administration, which often use WordPress for public-facing portals, are at heightened risk. The vulnerability also undermines user trust in 2FA mechanisms, potentially reducing adoption of multi-factor authentication practices. Since no known exploits are currently active, the window for proactive mitigation remains open, but the ease of brute forcing due to low entropy means attackers with modest resources could exploit this flaw if left unaddressed.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the use of the WP 2FA plugin and verify the version in use. Until an official patch is released, administrators should consider disabling backup codes or regenerating them using external tools that guarantee high entropy. Implementing rate limiting and account lockout policies on login attempts can reduce the feasibility of brute force attacks. Monitoring authentication logs for repeated failed attempts on backup codes is critical for early detection. Organizations should also educate users on the risks of backup code reuse and encourage the use of hardware-based or app-based authenticators as primary 2FA methods. Where possible, integrating additional security layers such as IP whitelisting or VPN access for administrative logins can further mitigate risk. Finally, maintain close communication with the plugin vendor for updates and apply patches promptly once available.