PatchSiren cyber security CVE debrief
CVE-2026-5415 webfactory CVE debrief
The WP Captcha PRO plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Authentication Bypass in all versions up to, and including, 5.38. This is due to the ajax_run_tool() AJAX handler relying solely on a nonce check (check_ajax_referer) for security without performing any capability check, combined with the create_temporary_link tool allowing the generation of passwordless login links for arbitrary users, and the handle_temporary_links() function authenticating visitors via these links without any additional authorization validation. The required nonce is exposed to all authenticated backend users (including Subscribers) via wp_localize_script() on all non-settings admin pages when the plugin's welcome pointer has not been dismissed. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to bypass normal authentication and log in as any user, including Administrators, resulting in complete account takeover.
- Vendor
- webfactory
- Product
- Advanced Google reCAPTCHA
- CVSS
- HIGH 8.8
- CISA KEV
- Not listed in stored evidence
- Original CVE published
- 2026-06-05
- Original CVE updated
- 2026-06-05
- Advisory published
- 2026-06-05
- Advisory updated
- 2026-06-05
Who should care
Users of the WP Captcha PRO plugin for WordPress, particularly those with Subscriber-level access and above, should be aware of this vulnerability and take immediate action to update to a patched version.
Technical summary
The vulnerability has a CVSS score of 8.8 and is considered HIGH. The CVSS vector is CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H.
Defensive priority
HIGH
Recommended defensive actions
- Update WP Captcha PRO to a patched version
- Restrict access to the plugin's settings and functionality
- Monitor for suspicious activity and authentication attempts
Evidence notes
The vulnerability was reported by [email protected] and has been documented in the NVD and CVE databases.
Official resources
CVE-2026-5415 was published on 2026-06-05T19:16:35.070Z and modified on 2026-06-05T19:20:19.607Z.