CVE-2025-64635 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the Syed Balkhi Feeds for YouTube WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions up to 2.4.0. This plugin is designed to integrate YouTube feeds into WordPress sites, enabling dynamic content display. The vulnerability arises from incorrectly configured access control mechanisms, allowing users with low privileges (PR:L) to perform actions or access data without proper authorization. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), meaning exploitation can occur remotely without physical access. No user interaction is required (UI:N), and the scope remains unchanged (S:U), indicating that the vulnerability does not escalate privileges beyond the affected component. The impact affects confidentiality and integrity to a limited extent (C:L/I:L), but availability is not impacted (A:N). Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability presents a risk for unauthorized data exposure or manipulation within affected WordPress sites. The absence of a patch link suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for monitoring vendor updates. The vulnerability was reserved in early November 2025 and published mid-December 2025, indicating recent discovery. The medium CVSS score of 5.4 reflects a moderate threat level, balancing ease of exploitation with limited impact severity.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk primarily to websites and digital platforms utilizing the Feeds for YouTube plugin to display YouTube content. Unauthorized access or manipulation could lead to exposure of sensitive feed configurations or content integrity issues, potentially damaging brand reputation or user trust. While the impact on availability is negligible, confidentiality breaches could expose internal feed data or user-related information if integrated improperly. Organizations relying on WordPress for marketing, media, or content delivery are particularly at risk. Given the plugin’s niche functionality, the overall attack surface is limited but still significant for affected sites. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate threat but does not eliminate future risk. European entities with strict data protection regulations (e.g., GDPR) must consider the implications of unauthorized data access. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as part of a broader attack chain, increasing its potential impact.

1. Monitor official Syed Balkhi channels and WordPress plugin repositories for patches addressing CVE-2025-64635 and apply updates immediately upon release. 2. In the interim, restrict access to administrative and plugin configuration interfaces to trusted users only, implementing strict role-based access controls. 3. Conduct thorough audits of current access control settings within WordPress to identify and remediate any overly permissive configurations. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the Feeds for YouTube plugin endpoints. 5. Implement logging and monitoring to detect anomalous activities related to plugin usage, enabling rapid incident response. 6. Educate site administrators about the risks of unauthorized access and the importance of least privilege principles. 7. Consider temporary disabling or replacing the plugin with alternative solutions if patching is delayed and risk is unacceptable.