CVE-2026-16589
7.7Unknown · WP Directory Kit
The WP Directory Kit WordPress plugin contains an SQL injection vulnerability in its AJAX actions, allowing authenticated subscribers to execute arbitrary SQL commands.
Executive summary
An SQL injection vulnerability in the WP Directory Kit WordPress plugin allows authenticated subscribers to access or manipulate database content without authorization.
Vulnerability
The plugin fails to sanitize and escape parameters used in SQL statements within authenticated AJAX actions. Because these actions lack authorization and nonce checks, any authenticated user, including those with Subscriber privileges, can perform SQL injection attacks.
Business impact
The vulnerability carries a CVSS score of 7.7, reflecting its potential for unauthorized database access. By leveraging this flaw, an attacker could extract sensitive user information, configuration data, or escalate privileges within the WordPress environment, leading to a loss of confidentiality and system integrity.
Remediation
Immediate Action: Update the WP Directory Kit plugin to version 1.5.5 or later to resolve the underlying sanitization and authorization issues.
Proactive Monitoring: Audit database query logs for suspicious patterns or queries that deviate from standard plugin operations.
Compensating Controls: Restrict access to administrative or sensitive AJAX endpoints via WAF rules and ensure that user roles are strictly managed to minimize the number of accounts capable of triggering these actions.
Exploitation status
Public Exploit Available: No (unknown).
Analyst recommendation
The ability for low-privilege users to perform SQL injection makes this a serious concern for any site using the WP Directory Kit plugin. Administrators must immediately update to version 1.5.5 and review the activity of existing user accounts to ensure no malicious activity has occurred.