CVE-2025-13381 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization) found in the AI ChatBot with ChatGPT and Content Generator by AYS plugin for WordPress. The issue arises because the 'ays_chatgpt_save_wp_media' function lacks a capability check, which means it does not verify whether the user attempting to upload media files has the necessary permissions. This flaw exists in all plugin versions up to and including 2.7.0. As a result, unauthenticated attackers can exploit this vulnerability to upload arbitrary media files to the WordPress site. Although the vulnerability does not directly disclose sensitive information or cause denial of service, the ability to upload files without authorization can be leveraged to upload malicious payloads such as web shells or scripts, which can then be used to escalate attacks, modify site content, or pivot within the hosting environment. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.3, reflecting a medium severity level, with an attack vector of network (remote), low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed. The scope remains unchanged, and the impact affects integrity but not confidentiality or availability. No patches or exploit code are currently publicly available, and no known active exploitation has been reported. However, the vulnerability poses a significant risk to WordPress sites using this plugin, especially those exposed to the internet without additional access controls. The vulnerability was published on November 27, 2025, and was reserved on November 18, 2025, by Wordfence. Organizations should monitor for updates from the vendor and apply fixes promptly once released.

For European organizations, this vulnerability presents a risk primarily to the integrity of their WordPress-based websites that use the affected AI ChatBot plugin. Unauthorized media uploads could lead to the insertion of malicious files, such as web shells or backdoors, enabling attackers to execute arbitrary code, deface websites, or conduct further attacks within the network. This can damage brand reputation, lead to data manipulation, and potentially facilitate lateral movement to more critical systems. Since the vulnerability requires no authentication and no user interaction, it is relatively easy to exploit remotely, increasing the risk for publicly accessible sites. The impact on confidentiality and availability is minimal directly, but secondary effects could arise if attackers leverage uploaded files to escalate privileges or disrupt services. European organizations with compliance obligations under GDPR may face regulatory scrutiny if the vulnerability leads to data breaches or unauthorized data manipulation. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk, but proactive mitigation is essential to prevent future attacks.

1. Monitor the vendor’s official channels for patches addressing CVE-2025-13381 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict access to media upload endpoints by implementing web application firewall (WAF) rules that block unauthorized POST requests to the 'ays_chatgpt_save_wp_media' function or related URLs. 3. Limit file upload types and sizes to reduce the risk of malicious payloads being uploaded. 4. Employ strict file validation and sanitization on the server side to prevent execution of uploaded files. 5. Use WordPress security plugins that can detect and block unauthorized file uploads or changes. 6. Regularly audit media directories for suspicious files and maintain backups to enable recovery. 7. Harden WordPress installations by disabling unnecessary plugins and enforcing least privilege principles for user roles. 8. Monitor logs for unusual upload activity or access patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. 9. Consider isolating the WordPress environment using containerization or sandboxing to limit potential damage from exploitation. 10. Educate site administrators about the risks and signs of compromise related to unauthorized uploads.