CVE-2025-14539 is a code injection vulnerability classified under CWE-94 affecting the Shortcode Ajax WordPress plugin developed by rang501. The flaw exists because the plugin improperly controls the generation of code by failing to validate user-supplied input before invoking the WordPress function do_shortcode. This function executes shortcodes, which are snippets of code embedded in WordPress content to perform dynamic actions. Due to the lack of validation, unauthenticated attackers can craft requests that trigger arbitrary shortcode execution via the plugin's AJAX interface. This can lead to unauthorized manipulation of site content or execution of malicious code embedded in shortcodes. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.0 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 5.4, indicating a medium severity with the vector AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:L/I:L/A:N, meaning the attack can be launched remotely without user interaction but requires low privileges (likely a low-level authenticated user). No patches or known exploits are currently reported, but the risk remains due to the plugin's widespread use in WordPress environments. The vulnerability primarily impacts confidentiality and integrity, with no direct availability impact. The plugin's AJAX endpoint should be considered a critical attack surface due to this flaw.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk primarily to websites and web applications running WordPress with the Shortcode Ajax plugin installed. Exploitation could allow attackers to execute arbitrary shortcodes, potentially leading to unauthorized content changes, data leakage, or insertion of malicious code that could facilitate further attacks such as phishing or malware distribution. Although the vulnerability does not directly impact availability, the integrity and confidentiality of website content and user data could be compromised. Organizations in sectors with high reliance on WordPress for public-facing websites—such as media, e-commerce, and government—may face reputational damage and regulatory scrutiny if exploited. The risk is heightened in environments where the plugin is active and accessible without additional access controls. Given the medium severity and lack of known exploits, the threat is currently moderate but could escalate if exploit code becomes available.

1. Immediately audit all WordPress installations to identify the presence of the Shortcode Ajax plugin and verify its version. 2. Disable or uninstall the plugin if it is not essential to website functionality. 3. If the plugin is required, implement strict access controls on the AJAX endpoints, such as IP whitelisting or authentication enforcement, to limit exposure. 4. Monitor web server and application logs for unusual or suspicious AJAX requests that may indicate exploitation attempts. 5. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block requests containing suspicious shortcode payloads. 6. Keep WordPress core, themes, and all plugins updated to the latest versions to reduce attack surface. 7. Develop and deploy a custom patch or workaround to validate shortcode inputs before execution if an official patch is not yet available. 8. Educate site administrators on the risks of arbitrary shortcode execution and best practices for plugin management. 9. Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery if compromise occurs.