CVE-2025-68514 is a security vulnerability identified in the Cozmoslabs Paid Member Subscriptions WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions up to and including 2.16.8. The vulnerability is categorized as an authorization bypass caused by incorrect configuration of access control security levels. The core issue lies in the plugin's handling of a user-controlled key, which is used to enforce access restrictions. Because the key can be manipulated by an attacker, the plugin fails to properly verify authorization, allowing unauthorized users to access protected membership content or potentially administrative features. This bypass undermines the integrity of membership restrictions and could lead to data leakage or unauthorized privilege escalation. The vulnerability was reserved in December 2025 and published in February 2026, with no CVSS score assigned yet and no known exploits detected in the wild. The absence of a patch link suggests that a fix may still be pending or recently released. The vulnerability does not require user interaction but depends on the attacker’s ability to control the key parameter used in access control checks. This flaw is critical for websites relying on Paid Member Subscriptions to manage paid content, subscriptions, or membership tiers, as it compromises the fundamental security mechanism that restricts content access.

The impact of CVE-2025-68514 is significant for organizations using the Cozmoslabs Paid Member Subscriptions plugin to manage paid content or membership access. Successful exploitation allows attackers to bypass authorization controls, potentially granting them access to premium content, subscriber-only resources, or administrative functions without proper credentials. This can lead to revenue loss, as unauthorized users consume paid services for free. Additionally, unauthorized access may expose sensitive user data or allow attackers to manipulate membership settings, undermining trust and compliance with data protection regulations. The vulnerability could also facilitate privilege escalation, enabling further attacks within the affected website or network. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of membership plugins, the scope of affected systems is broad, impacting organizations of all sizes globally. The ease of exploitation—requiring only manipulation of a user-controlled key—raises the risk of automated or targeted attacks. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability presents a clear risk that could be leveraged by cybercriminals or competitors.

To mitigate CVE-2025-68514, organizations should immediately verify whether they use the Cozmoslabs Paid Member Subscriptions plugin and identify the version in use. If running version 2.16.8 or earlier, they should monitor for official patches or updates from Cozmoslabs and apply them promptly once available. In the interim, administrators should review and tighten access control configurations within the plugin settings, ensuring that keys or tokens controlling authorization are not user-controllable or are properly validated. Implementing web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to manipulate authorization keys can provide temporary protection. Additionally, conducting thorough audits of membership access logs may help detect unauthorized access attempts. Organizations should also consider isolating critical membership management functions and limiting administrative access to trusted IP ranges or through multi-factor authentication. Finally, educating site administrators about the risks of plugin vulnerabilities and maintaining an up-to-date inventory of installed plugins will improve overall security posture.