What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Local Syndication plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Server-Side Request Forgery in all versions up to, and including, 1.5a via the `url` parameter in the `[syndicate_local]` shortcode. This is due to the use of `wp_remote_get()` instead of `wp_safe_remote_get()` which lacks protections against requests to internal/private IP addresses and localhost. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Contributor-level access and above, to make web requests to arbitrary locations originating from the web application, which can be used to query and modify information from internal services, scan internal networks, and access resources that should not be accessible from external networks.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
Local Syndication versions 1.5a and earlier contain a server-side request forgery vulnerability. An authenticated user with low privileges can make the application send HTTP requests to internal or external systems on their behalf. The vulnerability affects confidentiality and integrity of data accessible through those requests. No user interaction is required to exploit this flaw.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Make the site send HTTP requests to internal systems or external servers under the attacker's control.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Attackers with basic user accounts can probe internal infrastructure, access internal services, or exfiltrate data via forced requests.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privilege authenticated account; no user interaction required.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
November 18, 2025
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated
