CVE-2026-0593 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability (CWE-862) in the WP Go Maps plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 10.0.04. The vulnerability stems from the processBackgroundAction() function, which does not perform adequate capability checks before allowing modifications to global map engine settings. This flaw permits any authenticated user with at least Subscriber-level access to alter these settings without proper authorization. The vulnerability does not require elevated privileges beyond Subscriber, nor does it require user interaction beyond authentication. The impact is primarily on the integrity of the plugin’s configuration, as attackers can manipulate map settings that may affect website functionality or user experience. Confidentiality and availability are not directly impacted. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 5.3, indicating medium severity, with an attack vector of network, low attack complexity, no privileges required beyond Subscriber, and no user interaction needed. No public exploits have been reported yet. The vulnerability was published on January 24, 2026, and is tracked under CWE-862 (Missing Authorization). Since the plugin is widely used in WordPress sites for embedding maps, this vulnerability could be leveraged to disrupt or manipulate map-related features on affected websites.

For European organizations, the primary impact of CVE-2026-0593 is the unauthorized modification of map configurations on websites using the WP Go Maps plugin. This could lead to misinformation, altered geolocation data, or disruption of services relying on accurate map displays, potentially damaging user trust and brand reputation. While the vulnerability does not expose sensitive data or cause denial of service, the integrity compromise could affect e-commerce sites, local business directories, or any service dependent on accurate map data. Attackers with Subscriber-level access could be internal users or compromised low-privilege accounts, increasing the risk of insider threats or lateral movement. Organizations with public-facing WordPress sites using this plugin should be vigilant, as attackers might exploit this to manipulate content or mislead users. The lack of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as the vulnerability is easy to exploit once authenticated.

1. Immediately restrict Subscriber-level user capabilities to the minimum necessary, reviewing and tightening role permissions to prevent unauthorized access. 2. Monitor WordPress user accounts for suspicious activity, especially any changes to map settings or plugin configurations. 3. Apply security updates and patches from the WP Go Maps plugin vendor as soon as they are released; if no patch is available, consider temporarily disabling the plugin or removing it until fixed. 4. Implement multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all WordPress user accounts to reduce the risk of account compromise. 5. Use WordPress security plugins that can detect unauthorized changes to plugin settings or files. 6. Conduct regular audits of user roles and plugin configurations to detect and revert unauthorized modifications. 7. Limit plugin usage to trusted administrators and avoid granting Subscriber or higher access to untrusted users. 8. Employ web application firewalls (WAF) with rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable function if possible.