CVE-2025-2802 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting the LayoutBoxx WordPress plugin, versions up to and including 0.3.1. The vulnerability stems from improper control over the generation of code, specifically classified under CWE-94 (Improper Control of Generation of Code). The plugin allows unauthenticated users to execute arbitrary shortcodes due to insufficient validation before invoking the WordPress function do_shortcode. Shortcodes in WordPress are macros that can execute PHP code or trigger plugin functionality, so arbitrary shortcode execution can lead to unauthorized code execution within the WordPress environment. This vulnerability does not require any user authentication or interaction, making it remotely exploitable over the network with low attack complexity. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.3, reflecting a high severity with network attack vector, no privileges required, no user interaction, and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability’s nature and ease of exploitation make it a significant risk. The lack of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to website defacement, data leakage, insertion of malicious content, or full site compromise. Given WordPress’s widespread use, especially among small to medium enterprises and content-driven organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial threat to affected sites using the LayoutBoxx plugin.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can be considerable. Many European businesses rely on WordPress for their web presence, including e-commerce, informational, and governmental websites. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive customer data, disruption of services, and damage to brand reputation. The ability to execute arbitrary shortcodes without authentication means attackers could implant backdoors, conduct phishing campaigns, or distribute malware via compromised sites. This could also have regulatory implications under GDPR if personal data is exposed or integrity of data is compromised. Additionally, availability impacts could disrupt business operations and customer trust. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, and public services, which often use WordPress for external communications, are particularly at risk due to the sensitivity of their data and the critical nature of their services.

Immediate mitigation steps include disabling or uninstalling the LayoutBoxx plugin until a security patch is released. Organizations should monitor official channels for updates or patches from the plugin vendor. In the interim, applying Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules to block suspicious shortcode execution patterns can reduce risk. Restricting access to WordPress administrative endpoints and limiting plugin installation permissions to trusted administrators can help reduce exposure. Conduct thorough audits of installed plugins to identify and remove any unnecessary or outdated components. Regular backups of website data and configurations should be maintained to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. Additionally, organizations should implement continuous monitoring for anomalous activity and review logs for signs of exploitation attempts. Educating site administrators about the risks of installing unverified plugins and enforcing strict plugin update policies will help prevent similar vulnerabilities.