| Plugin Name | Request a Quote |
|---|---|
| Type of Vulnerability | Remote Code Execution |
| CVE Number | CVE-2025-8420 |
| Urgency | Critical |
| CVE Publish Date | 2025-08-05 |
| Source URL | CVE-2025-8420 Information |
Understanding the Latest Remote Code Execution Vulnerability in WordPress “Request a Quote” Plugin (≤ 2.5.2)
The WordPress platform supports millions of websites worldwide and remains a top target for cyber attackers looking to exploit vulnerabilities. Recently, a critical Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability was identified in the popular “Request a Quote” plugin, specifically affecting versions up to 2.5.2. This vulnerability enables unauthorized attackers to execute arbitrary code remotely, threatening the security and integrity of countless WordPress sites.
In this post, Managed-WP will explain the nature of this vulnerability, the potential risks it poses, and the necessary steps site administrators should take to protect their websites. Additionally, we will share best practices to strengthen your WordPress security strategy moving forward.
What Is Remote Code Execution and Why Does It Matter?
Remote Code Execution, commonly referred to as RCE, is a severe security flaw that allows attackers to run malicious code on a server without needing any authentication or access rights. This type of vulnerability is especially dangerous because:
- Full Site Compromise: Attackers can take control of your server, steal data, inject malware, or deface your website.
- No Authentication Needed: Exploits can be carried out by anyone, including automated bots scanning for vulnerable sites.
- Widespread Impact: Popular plugins with large user bases become significant attack vectors affecting many websites simultaneously.
The “Request a Quote” Plugin Vulnerability Overview
Plugin Functionality and Usage
The “Request a Quote” plugin is widely used on WooCommerce and e-commerce WordPress sites to allow customers to request pricing quotes for products. With hundreds of thousands of active installs, its functionality is essential to many online businesses.
Affected Versions
- All versions up to and including 2.5.2 are vulnerable.
Patched Version
- The vulnerability is resolved starting with version 2.5.3. It is crucial that affected sites update immediately.
Severity and Scores
- CVSS v3.1 Score: 8.1 (High Severity)
Privileges Required
- None — no login or special permissions required to exploit.
How the Vulnerability Operates
This RCE flaw arises from insufficient validation and improper handling of user inputs, which allows attackers to inject commands that are executed by the backend PHP code. Specifically, crafted malicious requests can:
- Bypass authentication controls,
- Trigger execution of unintended PHP functions,
- Run arbitrary system commands on the server.
Exploitation often leaves few immediate signs, enabling attackers to maintain long-term unauthorized access.
Business Risks Associated With This Vulnerability
The impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple website defacement. A compromised site can be used to:
- Distribute malware or phishing content under your domain’s name.
- Leak sensitive customer or business data, leading to data breaches.
- Damage search engine rankings and online reputation by being blacklisted.
- Cause downtime and disrupt business operations, affecting revenue and customer trust.
Attackers are expected to exploit this flaw rapidly, making prompt action essential.
Essential Actions to Mitigate Risk
1. Update the Plugin Immediately to Version 2.5.3 or Newer
The most effective defense is to apply the official security update without delay. Regularly check and maintain all plugins to the latest releases.
2. Back Up Your Website
Create a full backup before making any changes. This ensures recovery options in case of issues during updates or compromises.
3. Perform Security Scans
After updating, run thorough malware and integrity scans to detect any signs of compromise, suspicious files, or unauthorized changes.
4. Use a Managed Web Application Firewall (WAF)
A managed WAF can block exploit attempts targeting this vulnerability, protecting your site proactively during the update phase.
5. Strengthen Security Posture
Implement strict access controls, monitor user permissions carefully, and maintain ongoing vigilance for anomalies.
Key Takeaways: The Importance of Plugin Security
This incident emphasizes the critical role plugins play in site security and the risks they pose if not diligently maintained:
- Plugin vulnerabilities impact millions: Flaws in widely-used extensions have a broad reach.
- Unauthenticated risks are most severe: Zero-trust and minimal permission principles are vital.
- Rapid patching is crucial: Speed in applying fixes drastically narrows exposure.
- Transparency and good security hygiene: Plugins with proactive vulnerability disclosure programs reduce risk.
Strengthening Your WordPress Security Beyond Updating Plugins
Adopt a Proactive Security Approach
Effective WordPress security requires ongoing effort and leveraging advanced protections:
- Managed Firewall Services to block malicious traffic before it reaches your site.
- Automated Malware Scanning and Removal for swift threat detection and reaction.
- Vulnerability Intelligence Feeds to stay ahead of emerging threats.
- Virtual Patching to shield your site from zero-day exploits until official patches can be applied.
- IP Blacklisting and Whitelisting to control access rigorously.
- Regular Security Reports providing actionable insights into your website’s security health.
The Role of a WordPress Web Application Firewall (WAF)
A WordPress-tailored firewall offers essential protections, including:
- Blocking known exploit attempts on vulnerable plugins.
- Preventing automated botnet scanning and attacks.
- Mitigating risks from unknown or zero-day vulnerabilities through virtual patching.
- Enforcing best practice security controls based on OWASP Top Ten mitigations.
By integrating a managed WAF with continuous threat intelligence, Managed-WP helps shift your defense from reactive to proactive.
Why OWASP Top 10 Matters
The OWASP Top 10 is a respected global standard highlighting the most critical security risks in web applications. This RCE vulnerability falls under A1: Injection, which remains one of the most pervasive and damaging exploit categories.
Preventing injection attacks involves:
- Rigorous input validation and sanitation across all data entry points,
- Restricting execution privileges where possible,
- Applying strict security measures throughout your application’s code and workflows.
Deploying a WAF that enforces OWASP protections automatically filters out many injection attempts at the network level.
If You Suspect Your Site Has Been Compromised
While prevention is the goal, be prepared to respond swiftly if exploitation occurred before patching:
- Coordinate with your hosting provider for a comprehensive malware scan.
- Engage professional incident response experts to investigate and remediate.
- Avoid relying solely on plugin-based scanners — sophisticated malware often bypasses them.
- Consider rebuilding compromised site components and rotate all credentials immediately.
- Audit administrative access and revoke unauthorized users or permissions.
These steps are essential to regain control and restore trust.
Why Prioritizing WordPress Security Is More Critical Than Ever
With WordPress powering over 40% of all websites, attackers constantly seek new weaknesses to exploit:
- New vulnerabilities are frequently discovered.
- Automated attacks scale attacks globally within minutes.
- Layered defenses and timely patching reduce risk dramatically.
- A culture of security awareness helps produce a healthier ecosystem.
Protect Your WordPress Website Today With Managed-WP’s Security Solutions
Maintaining a secure WordPress site requires more than manual updates; it involves continuous protection powered by intelligent tools and expert support.
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- Managed WordPress firewall with unlimited bandwidth.
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Summary: Act Swiftly, Patch Wisely, Stay Resilient
The Remote Code Execution vulnerability affecting the “Request a Quote” plugin (≤ 2.5.2) underscores the necessity to:
- Promptly update all vulnerable plugins.
- Implement layered security including managed firewalls and malware detection.
- Continuously monitor and mitigate risks from third-party extensions.
- Develop and prepare incident response plans for potential compromises.
Your WordPress website represents your digital storefront—safeguarding it requires constant vigilance and the right tools.
Additional Resources for WordPress Security
- Stay current with WordPress security news and vulnerability disclosures.
- Schedule regular security audits and penetration testing.
- Engage with security communities to receive early warnings and best practices.
- Maintain regular backups of your website and databases.
- Enforce least privilege principles and strong authentication.
Stay ahead of threats and defend your WordPress site with up-to-date intelligence, robust tools, and managed services offering continuous protection.
For comprehensive guidance tailored to WordPress security, consider Managed-WP’s expert offerings designed to protect your infrastructure at every level.
Protect your site the smart way—start with essentials, scale with your needs, and secure your future. Explore Managed-WP’s free security plan here:
https://my.wp-firewall.com/buy/wp-firewall-free-plan/
Stay secure, stay informed, and maintain control over your WordPress site.
— Managed-WP Security Team
Appendix: Technical Details and Vulnerability Timeline
- Vulnerability Type: Remote Code Execution (Injection – OWASP A1)
- Affected Versions: ≤ 2.5.2
- Fixed in Version: 2.5.3
- CVE Identifier: CVE-2025-8420
- Disclosure Date: August 5, 2025
- Required Privileges for Exploit: None (Unauthenticated)
- Severity Rating: High (CVSS 8.1)
- Reported By: Security researcher “mikemyers”
- Recommended Action: Immediate plugin update and deployment of mitigating controls.
About Managed-WP
Managed-WP delivers specialized WordPress security solutions, including managed firewall services, malware detection, vulnerability management, and virtual patching technology. Our mission is to empower WordPress site owners and developers with comprehensive tools and expert support to defend their digital assets effectively.
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