CVE-2026-24991 identifies an authorization bypass vulnerability in the HT Plugins Extensions For CF7 WordPress plugin, specifically affecting versions up to 3.4.0. The vulnerability stems from incorrectly configured access control security levels that allow an attacker to manipulate a user-controlled key parameter to bypass authorization checks. This means that the plugin fails to properly verify whether a user is permitted to perform certain actions or access specific resources, relying instead on a key that can be controlled or influenced by the user. The flaw can be exploited by sending specially crafted requests that include manipulated keys, enabling unauthorized actions such as accessing restricted data or performing administrative functions. Although no exploits have been observed in the wild yet, the vulnerability presents a significant risk due to the widespread use of the Extensions For CF7 plugin in WordPress environments. The absence of a CVSS score and official patches indicates that the issue is newly disclosed, with remediation pending. The vulnerability impacts the confidentiality and integrity of affected systems by potentially exposing sensitive information or allowing unauthorized modifications. Exploitation does not require user interaction but may require the attacker to have network access to the WordPress site or the ability to send HTTP requests. The plugin is commonly used to extend Contact Form 7 functionality, which is popular in many European organizations’ websites, increasing the potential attack surface. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper access control implementation and validation of user-supplied input in WordPress plugins.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a risk of unauthorized access to sensitive data and unauthorized actions within WordPress sites using the Extensions For CF7 plugin. This can lead to data breaches, defacement, or further compromise of web infrastructure. Organizations relying on WordPress for customer interaction, marketing, or internal communication may face reputational damage and regulatory consequences under GDPR if personal data is exposed. The integrity of website content and user submissions could be compromised, affecting business operations and trust. Since WordPress is widely used across Europe, especially in small and medium enterprises, the potential impact is broad. The vulnerability could also be leveraged as a foothold for lateral movement within corporate networks if the WordPress server is connected to internal systems. The lack of known exploits currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially once exploit code becomes publicly available. The impact is heightened in sectors with strict data protection requirements such as finance, healthcare, and government services.

1. Monitor for official patches or updates from HT Plugins and apply them immediately once available. 2. Until a patch is released, restrict access to the WordPress admin and plugin endpoints using IP whitelisting or web application firewalls (WAF) to limit exposure. 3. Review and harden access control configurations within the plugin and WordPress to ensure that authorization checks are enforced correctly. 4. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-controllable keys or parameters related to the plugin. 5. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on WordPress plugins and their access control mechanisms. 6. Employ security plugins that can detect and block suspicious requests or abnormal behavior targeting WordPress sites. 7. Educate site administrators on the risks of installing unverified plugins and encourage minimal plugin usage. 8. Maintain regular backups of WordPress sites to enable quick recovery in case of compromise. 9. Monitor logs for unusual access patterns or failed authorization attempts related to the plugin endpoints. 10. Consider isolating WordPress environments from critical internal networks to limit lateral movement if compromised.