CVE-2025-27130 Overview
CVE-2025-27130 is an untrusted data deserialization vulnerability in Welcart e-Commerce, a WordPress plugin for online stores. The flaw affects versions 2.11.6 and earlier. Remote unauthenticated attackers can exploit it to execute arbitrary code on websites built with the plugin. Successful exploitation requires user interaction, but the impact spans confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The vulnerability is tracked under [CWE-502: Deserialization of Untrusted Data].
Critical Impact
Remote unauthenticated attackers can execute arbitrary code on affected WordPress sites running Welcart e-Commerce 2.11.6 or earlier.
Affected Products
- Welcart e-Commerce 2.11.6 and earlier
- WordPress sites using the Welcart plugin
- E-commerce storefronts built on the affected Welcart versions
Discovery Timeline
- 2025-04-01 - CVE-2025-27130 published to NVD
- 2025-07-08 - Last updated in NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2025-27130
Vulnerability Analysis
The vulnerability stems from the plugin deserializing untrusted data without validation. PHP applications that call unserialize() on attacker-controlled input can be coerced into instantiating arbitrary objects. When combined with reachable magic methods such as __wakeup() or __destruct(), this behavior enables property-oriented programming chains that execute arbitrary code.
The attack vector is network-based and requires no authentication. The attacker must trick a user into interacting with a crafted request or link, which satisfies the user interaction requirement. Once exploited, the attacker gains code execution in the context of the PHP worker serving the WordPress site.
For full technical context, refer to the JVN Vulnerability Report and the Welcart Security Advisory.
Root Cause
The root cause is improper handling of serialized input within the Welcart e-Commerce plugin. The plugin accepts data from an untrusted source and passes it to PHP deserialization routines without enforcing allowlists or integrity checks. This pattern matches [CWE-502] and is a recurring weakness in WordPress plugin ecosystems.
Attack Vector
The attacker delivers a crafted serialized payload to a Welcart endpoint reachable on the public website. When the victim triggers the request, the plugin deserializes the payload and invokes a gadget chain assembled from classes loaded by WordPress and the plugin. The chain culminates in arbitrary PHP execution, granting the attacker the ability to read files, modify the database, or pivot deeper into the host.
No public proof-of-concept code has been verified. See the referenced advisories for technical details from the vendor and JVN.
Detection Methods for CVE-2025-27130
Indicators of Compromise
- HTTP POST or GET requests to Welcart plugin endpoints containing serialized PHP markers such as O: or a: followed by class names and property counts.
- Unexpected PHP processes spawning shell commands, web shells, or outbound network connections from the WordPress host.
- New or modified PHP files in wp-content/plugins/usc-e-shop/ or other plugin directories not matching the official Welcart release.
- WordPress administrator accounts created without an audit trail.
Detection Strategies
- Inspect web server logs for request bodies or query parameters containing serialized object patterns sent to Welcart endpoints.
- Deploy a web application firewall rule that blocks serialized PHP payloads in user-supplied input destined for the plugin.
- Monitor PHP-FPM and Apache or Nginx worker processes for anomalous child processes such as sh, bash, curl, or wget.
- Alert on file integrity changes within the plugin and WordPress core directories.
Monitoring Recommendations
- Centralize WordPress, web server, and host telemetry in a SIEM and correlate plugin requests with process and file system events.
- Track outbound connections from the web host to unfamiliar destinations following Welcart-related requests.
- Review scheduled tasks and wp_options autoloaded entries for unexpected serialized payloads.
How to Mitigate CVE-2025-27130
Immediate Actions Required
- Upgrade Welcart e-Commerce to a version later than 2.11.6 as published in the Welcart Security Advisory.
- Audit affected WordPress sites for signs of compromise, including new admin users, modified plugin files, and unexpected scheduled tasks.
- Rotate WordPress administrator credentials, API keys, and database secrets if exploitation is suspected.
Patch Information
Welcart has released a fixed version addressing the deserialization flaw. Administrators should review the vendor advisory and apply the patched release through the WordPress plugin updater. Validate the update by confirming the installed plugin version is higher than 2.11.6.
Workarounds
- Restrict access to the Welcart plugin endpoints through web application firewall rules until the patch is applied.
- Block requests containing serialized PHP object markers in user-controllable parameters.
- Take affected storefronts offline if patching cannot be completed promptly and exploitation risk is elevated.
# Example: confirm the installed Welcart version using WP-CLI
wp plugin get usc-e-shop --field=version
wp plugin update usc-e-shop
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
