CVE-2025-64244 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the WordPress plugin 'Restrict Elementor Widgets, Columns and Sections' developed by Codexpert, Inc. This plugin is designed to control access to Elementor page builder widgets, columns, and sections, allowing site administrators to restrict content visibility or editing capabilities. The vulnerability arises from incorrectly configured access control security levels, which means that the plugin fails to properly verify whether a user has the necessary permissions before allowing certain actions. As a result, an attacker could exploit this flaw to bypass restrictions and perform unauthorized operations such as viewing, modifying, or deleting restricted widgets or sections within Elementor-based pages. The affected versions include all releases up to and including version 1.12. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known at this time. The vulnerability was reserved in late October 2025 and published in mid-December 2025. The lack of proper authorization checks can lead to privilege escalation or unauthorized content manipulation, which undermines the integrity and confidentiality of the affected WordPress sites. Since Elementor is widely used across many WordPress installations, this vulnerability could have broad implications if exploited.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-64244 can be significant, especially for those relying on WordPress sites with Elementor and the affected plugin installed. Unauthorized access to restricted widgets and sections can lead to unauthorized content changes, defacement, or leakage of sensitive information embedded within page elements. This can damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory compliance issues (such as GDPR violations if personal data is exposed), and disrupt business operations. Attackers might also leverage this vulnerability to escalate privileges within the WordPress environment, potentially gaining further access to backend systems or sensitive data. Given the widespread use of WordPress and Elementor in Europe, especially among SMEs and digital service providers, the vulnerability poses a tangible risk. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the potential for rapid exploitation once public proof-of-concept code emerges is high.

Organizations should immediately inventory their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the 'Restrict Elementor Widgets, Columns and Sections' plugin and verify the version in use. Since no official patch links are currently available, administrators should monitor Codexpert’s official channels and trusted vulnerability databases for updates or patches. In the interim, restrict plugin usage to trusted administrators only, and review user roles and permissions to minimize exposure. Implement strict access controls at the WordPress level, including limiting plugin management capabilities. Consider disabling or removing the plugin if it is not critical to operations until a patch is released. Additionally, enable comprehensive logging and monitoring of administrative actions within WordPress to detect any suspicious activity related to widget or section modifications. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block anomalous requests targeting the plugin’s functionality. Finally, conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on access control mechanisms within WordPress environments.