CVE-2025-6680 is an improper access control vulnerability (CWE-284) found in the Tutor LMS plugin for WordPress, a widely used eLearning and online course management solution. The flaw exists in all versions up to and including 3.8.3 and allows authenticated users with tutor-level privileges or higher to access assignment data for courses they are not assigned to teach. This unauthorized access exposes potentially sensitive student submissions or grading information, violating confidentiality principles. The vulnerability does not affect the integrity or availability of the system, nor does it require user interaction to exploit. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.3 (medium), reflecting the network attack vector, low complexity, and requirement for privileges but no user interaction. The issue stems from insufficient access control checks within the plugin’s code that fail to properly segregate course data based on user roles. While no public exploits have been reported, the vulnerability poses a privacy risk in educational environments where sensitive student data is handled. The lack of a patch at the time of publication necessitates interim mitigation strategies. Given the plugin’s integration with WordPress, a platform with broad adoption, the vulnerability could impact numerous educational institutions and training providers globally.

For European organizations, the exposure of sensitive student assignments can lead to privacy violations under GDPR, reputational damage, and potential legal consequences. Educational institutions using Tutor LMS may inadvertently disclose student work or grading information to unauthorized tutors, undermining trust and compliance with data protection regulations. While the vulnerability does not allow modification or deletion of data, the confidentiality breach alone is significant in regulated environments. The impact is particularly relevant for universities, vocational schools, and corporate training providers that rely on Tutor LMS for managing coursework. Since exploitation requires authenticated tutor-level access, insider threats or compromised tutor accounts represent the primary risk vectors. The medium severity rating indicates moderate urgency but highlights the need for prompt action to prevent data leakage. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as proof-of-concept code could emerge.

European organizations should immediately audit and restrict tutor-level permissions to only those users who require access to specific courses. Implement strict role-based access controls and regularly review user privileges within Tutor LMS. Monitor logs for unusual access patterns to assignments outside assigned courses. Until an official patch is released, consider isolating the Tutor LMS environment or disabling tutor access to sensitive course materials where feasible. Employ multi-factor authentication for all tutor accounts to reduce the risk of account compromise. Stay informed on vendor updates and apply patches promptly once available. Additionally, consider implementing web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block unauthorized access attempts targeting assignment endpoints. Educate tutors and administrators about the risk and encourage reporting of suspicious activity. Finally, ensure that data retention and privacy policies are aligned with GDPR requirements to mitigate regulatory exposure.