CVE-2025-49925 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the VibeThemes WPLMS plugin, a WordPress-based learning management system widely used for educational platforms. The flaw exists because certain functionality within the plugin is not properly constrained by access control lists (ACLs), allowing unauthenticated users to invoke functions that should require authorization. This can lead to unauthorized access to sensitive data or modification of LMS content, undermining confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.9.9.7. The CVSS 3.1 score of 7.3 reflects a network exploitable vulnerability with low attack complexity, no privileges required, and no user interaction needed, making exploitation feasible remotely by attackers without authentication. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability suggests that attackers could leverage it to bypass security controls, access restricted areas, or manipulate LMS data. The absence of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing urgency for organizations to monitor vendor updates and apply mitigations. Given the plugin’s role in managing educational content and user data, exploitation could disrupt learning services and expose personal information.

For European organizations, especially educational institutions and e-learning providers using WPLMS, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Unauthorized access could lead to leakage of student records, course materials, and proprietary educational content, violating data protection regulations such as GDPR. Integrity of course data could be compromised, affecting academic outcomes and trust in digital learning platforms. Availability impacts could arise if attackers modify or delete critical LMS content, disrupting educational operations. The vulnerability’s network accessibility and lack of required authentication increase the likelihood of exploitation by external threat actors, including cybercriminals and hacktivists targeting educational sectors. This could result in reputational damage, regulatory penalties, and operational downtime. Given the strategic importance of digital education in Europe, mitigating this vulnerability is critical to maintaining secure and reliable learning environments.

Organizations should immediately audit their use of the WPLMS plugin and identify affected versions (up to 1.9.9.7). Until an official patch is released, implement strict network-level controls such as IP whitelisting and web application firewalls (WAFs) to restrict access to the LMS backend and sensitive endpoints. Disable or restrict access to vulnerable plugin functionalities where possible. Monitor logs for unusual access patterns indicative of exploitation attempts. Engage with VibeThemes or trusted security vendors for early patch releases or mitigations. Regularly update WordPress core and all plugins to the latest versions once patches become available. Conduct thorough access control reviews to ensure ACLs are properly enforced across all LMS functions. Educate administrators on the risks of unauthorized access and encourage prompt incident reporting. Consider isolating LMS environments from critical internal networks to limit potential lateral movement in case of compromise.