A critical SQL injection vulnerability (CVE-2025-31552) has been identified in the RSVPMarker WordPress plugin, affecting versions up to and including 11.4.8. The flaw, rated 9.3 (Critical) on the CVSS scale, allows attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands due to improper neutralization of special elements in SQL queries. This vulnerability was publicly disclosed on April 1, 2025, and poses a significant risk to websites using the affected plugin[1].
Technical Analysis of CVE-2025-31552
The vulnerability stems from insufficient input sanitization in the RSVPMarker plugin, specifically in how user-supplied data is incorporated into SQL queries. Attackers can exploit this weakness by crafting malicious input that alters the structure of database queries, potentially leading to unauthorized data access, modification, or deletion. The CVSS vector string (AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:C/C:H/I:N/A:L) indicates this is a network-based attack requiring no privileges or user interaction, with high confidentiality impact and low availability impact[2].
SQL injection vulnerabilities remain one of the most common and dangerous web application security risks. In this case, the vulnerability affects a WordPress plugin used for event management and RSVP tracking, making it particularly concerning for organizations that handle sensitive attendee information. The plugin’s widespread use in event planning and registration systems increases the potential impact of successful exploitation.
Affected Products and Mitigation
The vulnerability affects all versions of RSVPMarker up to 11.4.8. While no specific patch version is mentioned in the available information, users should immediately update to the latest version available through the WordPress plugin repository. Organizations unable to update immediately should consider disabling the plugin until a secure version can be installed[1].
For system administrators and security teams, the following mitigation steps are recommended:
- Update RSVPMarker to the latest version immediately
- Review database logs for suspicious SQL queries
- Implement web application firewall rules to block SQL injection attempts
- Conduct code reviews of custom implementations using the plugin
Broader Context of SQL Injection Threats
CVE-2025-31552 is part of a concerning trend of SQL injection vulnerabilities in WordPress plugins. Similar critical vulnerabilities have been reported in other plugins this year, including WordPress Local SEO (CVE-2025-23931) and WP Travel (CVE-2025-22691)[2]. These vulnerabilities share common root causes, primarily improper input sanitization (CWE-89), highlighting the ongoing challenges in secure web application development.
The PostgreSQL psql tool vulnerability (CVE-2025-1094) demonstrates how SQL injection risks extend beyond web applications to database management tools themselves. While not directly related to RSVPMarker, this serves as a reminder of the pervasive nature of SQL injection threats across different technology stacks[3].
Security Recommendations
Organizations using RSVPMarker should prioritize patching this vulnerability due to its critical severity and the sensitive nature of data typically handled by event management systems. Beyond immediate patching, security teams should:
- Implement parameterized queries in all custom database interactions
- Conduct regular security audits of WordPress installations
- Monitor for unusual database activity patterns
- Educate development teams on secure coding practices for SQL
The discovery of CVE-2025-31552 underscores the importance of maintaining rigorous patch management processes for WordPress plugins. Given the plugin’s functionality in handling event registrations, successful exploitation could lead to exposure of personally identifiable information, making this vulnerability particularly concerning from both security and compliance perspectives.
References
- “WordPress RSVPMarker Plugin ≤11.4.8 – SQL Injection Vulnerability,” Patchstack, 2025.
- “NVD – CVE-2025-23931,” National Vulnerability Database, 2025.
- “PostgreSQL Security Information,” PostgreSQL Global Development Group, 2025.
- “CWE-89: Improper Neutralization of Special Elements used in an SQL Command (‘SQL Injection’),” MITRE, 2025.
