CVE-2025-66135 identifies a Missing Authorization vulnerability in the merkulove Imager for Elementor plugin, a widely used WordPress plugin that enhances image handling within the Elementor page builder. The vulnerability exists due to incorrectly configured access control security levels, allowing attackers with low privileges (PR:L) to bypass authorization checks and perform unauthorized actions without requiring user interaction (UI:N). The plugin versions up to and including 2.0.4 are affected. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H), meaning attackers could potentially access sensitive data, modify content or configurations, and disrupt service availability. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), making remote exploitation feasible. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the high CVSS score (8.8) indicates a significant risk. The vulnerability stems from improper enforcement of authorization controls within the plugin’s functionality, which could allow privilege escalation or unauthorized administrative actions. This is particularly concerning for organizations relying on Elementor for website management, as exploitation could lead to website defacement, data leakage, or complete site takeover. The vulnerability was reserved in November 2025 and published in January 2026, with no patch links currently available, indicating that remediation may still be pending or in progress.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk to websites and web applications built on WordPress using the merkulove Imager for Elementor plugin. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized access to sensitive information, defacement or manipulation of website content, and potential denial of service conditions. This could damage organizational reputation, lead to regulatory non-compliance (especially under GDPR), and cause operational disruptions. Public-facing websites of e-commerce, government, and media sectors are particularly vulnerable due to their reliance on Elementor for content management. The ease of remote exploitation without user interaction increases the likelihood of automated attacks or targeted campaigns. Additionally, compromised websites could be used as a foothold for further network intrusion or to distribute malware. The absence of known exploits in the wild provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity necessitates urgent mitigation efforts.

1. Monitor official merkulove and Elementor channels for security patches addressing CVE-2025-66135 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Until patches are available, restrict access to WordPress admin and plugin management interfaces using IP whitelisting or VPN access to limit exposure. 3. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the Imager for Elementor plugin endpoints. 4. Conduct thorough audits of user privileges within WordPress to ensure minimal necessary permissions, removing any unnecessary low-privilege accounts that could be exploited. 5. Enable detailed logging and monitoring of plugin-related activities to detect anomalous behavior indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 7. Educate site administrators about the risks and signs of exploitation related to this vulnerability. 8. Consider temporarily disabling or replacing the Imager for Elementor plugin if immediate patching is not feasible and the risk is unacceptable.