Introduction
A critical security vulnerability, identified as CVE-2025-31022 [1] [2] [3], has been discovered in the PayU CommercePro plugin for WordPress [2]. This flaw, which remains unpatched [2], poses a significant risk to over 5,000 active installations by allowing unauthorized access to user accounts, including those of site administrators [1] [2] [3].
Description
A critical vulnerability tracked as CVE-2025-31022 [1] [2] [3], with a CVSS score of 9.8 [2], has been identified in version 3.8.5 of the PayU CommercePro plugin for WordPress [3], which has over 5,000 active installations and remains unpatched [2]. This flaw allows unauthenticated attackers to hijack user accounts [1] [2] [3], including those of site administrators [1] [2] [3], without requiring a password [3]. The vulnerability is located in the /payu/v1/get-shipping-cost API endpoint [3], which fails to properly validate user identity before permitting sensitive session updates [3].
The exploit leverages the insecure updatecartdata() function [3], which sets user session data without adequate authentication checks [3]. Attackers can generate a valid authentication token using a hardcoded email address (commerce.pro@payu.in) through the /payu/v1/generate-user-token endpoint [1]. This token enables them to impersonate any registered user, allowing unauthorized access to their WordPress accounts. Additionally, the plugin’s design includes a mechanism that automatically deletes temporary guest accounts [3], complicating the detection of such breaches [3].
Despite a 30-day responsible disclosure period [3], no patch has been released [3], leaving numerous sites vulnerable [3]. Security experts recommend that WordPress site owners immediately deactivate and remove the plugin [3], as well as review public-facing API routes and eliminate hardcoded credentials to mitigate future risks [3]. This incident underscores the critical need for secure API design [3], particularly in e-commerce settings where sensitive user data is involved [3].
The vulnerability exemplifies how minor coding oversights can lead to significant security threats [3], particularly due to the combination of hardcoded credentials and inadequate authentication checks [3]. The stealthy nature of the exploit, including the auto-deletion of guest accounts [3], suggests a sophisticated attack that may already be in active exploitation [3]. If left unaddressed, a rise in WordPress site compromises [3], especially among e-commerce platforms using PayU CommercePro [3], is anticipated [3], with potential integration into automated botnets for large-scale account hijacks and data breaches [3]. Immediate action is essential due to the critical nature of this unpatched vulnerability [2], which poses a significant risk to user accounts.
Conclusion
The discovery of CVE-2025-31022 highlights the severe implications of security oversights in plugin development, particularly in e-commerce environments [3]. Immediate deactivation and removal of the affected plugin are crucial to prevent unauthorized access and potential data breaches. This incident serves as a reminder of the importance of robust API security measures and the need for timely patch releases to protect sensitive user information. Failure to address such vulnerabilities could lead to widespread exploitation and integration into larger cyber threats, emphasizing the necessity for proactive security practices.
References
[1] https://www.infosecurity-magazine.com/news/payu-plugin-flaw-wordpress-account/
[2] https://securityonline.info/critical-9-8-cvss-flaw-unpatched-payu-commercepro-plugin-allows-admin-account-takeover/
[3] https://undercodenews.com/critical-payu-plugin-flaw-puts-thousands-of-wordpress-sites-at-risk/
