CVE-2025-66157 identifies a Missing Authorization vulnerability (CWE-862) in the Merkulove Slider for Elementor plugin, a popular WordPress plugin used to create sliders within Elementor-built websites. The vulnerability stems from improperly configured access control mechanisms that fail to adequately restrict certain actions to authorized users only. Specifically, users with limited privileges (PR:L) can exploit this flaw to perform unauthorized operations that affect the integrity and availability of the plugin's functionality or underlying data. The CVSS 3.1 vector (AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:L) indicates that the attack can be conducted remotely over the network without user interaction, requires low complexity, and some level of privileges, but does not impact confidentiality. The vulnerability affects all versions up to 1.0.10, with no patches currently available and no known exploits in the wild. This suggests the vulnerability was recently discovered and disclosed. The lack of proper authorization checks could allow attackers to manipulate slider content or disrupt slider availability, potentially affecting website presentation and user experience. Since Elementor and its plugins are widely used in WordPress sites, this vulnerability could have a broad impact if exploited.

For European organizations, the impact of this vulnerability can range from unauthorized modification of website content to denial of service conditions affecting the slider functionality. While it does not directly compromise sensitive data confidentiality, the integrity and availability of website components are at risk. This can lead to reputational damage, loss of user trust, and potential operational disruptions, especially for businesses relying heavily on their web presence for customer engagement or e-commerce. Organizations in sectors such as retail, media, and services that use WordPress with Elementor and Merkulove plugins are particularly vulnerable. Additionally, compromised websites could be leveraged as part of broader attack campaigns, including defacement or phishing. The medium severity rating suggests the threat is significant but not critical, emphasizing the need for timely remediation to prevent escalation.

1. Monitor official Merkulove and Elementor channels for security updates and apply patches immediately once released. 2. In the absence of patches, restrict access to the WordPress admin area and plugin management interfaces to trusted users only, employing strong authentication and role-based access controls. 3. Conduct a thorough audit of user privileges to ensure minimal necessary permissions are granted, reducing the risk of privilege abuse. 4. Implement web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the slider plugin endpoints. 5. Regularly review website logs for unusual activity related to slider management or unauthorized modification attempts. 6. Consider temporarily disabling or replacing the vulnerable plugin if immediate patching is not possible, especially for high-risk environments. 7. Educate site administrators about the risks of privilege escalation and the importance of secure plugin management.