CVE-2026-23543 identifies a missing authorization vulnerability in the WPDeveloper Essential Addons for Elementor plugin, a widely used WordPress extension that enhances Elementor page builder functionality. The vulnerability arises from incorrectly configured access control security levels, which fail to properly verify user permissions before allowing certain actions. This misconfiguration can be exploited by attackers to bypass authorization checks, potentially enabling unauthorized users to perform actions reserved for privileged roles, such as modifying site content, changing configurations, or injecting malicious code. The affected versions include all releases up to and including 6.5.5. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the vulnerability's nature suggests it could be leveraged in targeted attacks or automated exploitation campaigns once details become widely known. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and pending detailed scoring, but the technical characteristics imply a significant risk. The vulnerability impacts the confidentiality and integrity of affected WordPress sites by allowing unauthorized access to sensitive functions. Since Essential Addons for Elementor is popular among European websites for enhancing user experience and site capabilities, this vulnerability poses a tangible threat to organizations relying on this plugin for their web presence. The absence of authentication requirements for exploitation and the potential for broad impact across many sites underscore the urgency of addressing this issue.

For European organizations, this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized modification of website content, defacement, data leakage, or the insertion of malicious code such as backdoors or phishing pages. This can damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR breaches if personal data is exposed), and cause operational disruptions. E-commerce platforms, media companies, and public sector websites using this plugin are particularly at risk, as attackers could manipulate site content or steal sensitive customer information. The vulnerability also increases the attack surface for supply chain compromises, where attackers leverage compromised websites to distribute malware or conduct further attacks. Given the widespread use of WordPress and Elementor in Europe, the potential scale of impact is significant, especially in countries with high WordPress market penetration and digital economy reliance. The lack of known exploits currently offers a window for proactive mitigation, but the risk of rapid exploitation once details are public remains high.

Organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the use of Essential Addons for Elementor and verify the plugin version. Until an official patch is released, restrict access to WordPress admin areas and plugin functionalities using web application firewalls (WAFs) and IP whitelisting where feasible. Implement strict role-based access controls to limit plugin usage to trusted administrators only. Monitor logs for unusual activity related to plugin endpoints or unauthorized changes to site content. Employ security plugins that can detect and block suspicious behavior. Once a patch is available, apply it without delay. Additionally, conduct regular backups of website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery if compromise occurs. Educate site administrators about the risks of unauthorized plugin access and the importance of timely updates. Consider isolating critical web assets behind additional security layers such as reverse proxies or content delivery networks (CDNs) with security features.