CVE-2025-49394 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the bPlugins Image Gallery block, a component used to create and display photo galleries and albums on websites. The vulnerability arises because the plugin fails to properly enforce Access Control Lists (ACLs) on certain functions, allowing users with limited privileges (PR:L) to access and manipulate gallery features without proper authorization. This can lead to unauthorized creation, modification, or deletion of photo galleries and albums, impacting confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the content. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.0.7. The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8 reflects a network attack vector (AV:N), low attack complexity (AC:L), requiring privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N), with unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no public exploits are currently known, the flaw's nature makes it a critical risk for websites relying on this plugin for media management. Attackers could leverage this vulnerability to deface galleries, inject malicious content, or disrupt service, potentially damaging organizational reputation and user trust. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in November 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant threat to web assets that utilize the bPlugins Image Gallery block, particularly those hosting sensitive or high-profile media content. Unauthorized access could lead to data breaches involving private images, defacement of public-facing galleries, or disruption of digital services. This can result in reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and potential regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed or manipulated. Organizations in sectors such as media, education, cultural institutions, and e-commerce that rely on image galleries for user engagement are especially at risk. The ease of exploitation with low privileges and no user interaction increases the likelihood of automated attacks or insider misuse. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a foothold for further lateral movement within web infrastructure, escalating the overall security risk.

Immediate mitigation steps include restricting access to the Image Gallery block functionalities to trusted and authenticated users only, implementing strict role-based access controls beyond the plugin's default ACLs. Organizations should monitor web server logs and application activity for unusual access patterns or unauthorized gallery modifications. Employing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting gallery endpoints can reduce exposure. Until an official patch is released, consider disabling or removing the vulnerable plugin if feasible. Regularly check for updates from bPlugins and apply patches promptly once available. Conduct security audits and penetration testing focused on web components to identify similar authorization weaknesses. Educate administrators and developers about secure plugin configuration and the risks of insufficient authorization controls.