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Critical WordPress Security Flaw Exposes Millions of Sites

Critical WordPress Security Flaw Exposes Millions of Sites

A grave coding flaw has been identified in WordPress, impacting millions of sites globally. This vulnerability opens gateways to potential hacking, affecting a substantial portion of high-profile websites.

Swift actions are critical to mitigate risks and protect sensitive data from potential breaches due to this WordPress issue.

A significant security vulnerability has been unearthed by a researcher at Secarma, a British cybersecurity firm, affecting WordPress sites. This flaw potentially leaves nearly a third of the world’s top 1,000 websites exposed to hacking and data breaches. Exploitation of this vulnerability could allow attackers to compromise entire systems, exposing sensitive data and gaining control over critical applications and business systems.

This alarming vulnerability, linked to object (un)serialization, was presented by Sam Thomas at the BSides technical cybersecurity conference in Manchester. Thomas highlighted the critical need for awareness regarding the security impact of such mechanisms. Nevertheless, despite being notified in February 2017, WordPress has yet to resolve this issue, underscoring a concerning lag in response.

Secarma CEO Lawrence Jones emphasises the widespread use of WordPress, underscoring the necessity for organisations to react swiftly to protect their customers. He advocates for regular penetration testing as an essential step for businesses to safeguard online applications.

The failure to address this vulnerability swiftly raises questions about the readiness of organisations to respond to critical security threats. Proactive measures, including regular security audits, are crucial to thwart potential breaches.

Organisations must prioritise cybersecurity to maintain user trust and data integrity. The delay in addressing known vulnerabilities can tarnish reputation and result in financial losses, thus strengthening the case for immediate action.

Ethical hacking plays a pivotal role in uncovering vulnerabilities. Secarma’s team, renowned for their expertise, consistently leads the charge in identifying and resolving intricate security issues.

Their triumph at DEFCON, the major hacking convention, showcases their capability in exposing more IoT vulnerabilities than any other team.

Businesses are advised to engage in frequent penetration testing and adopt robust cybersecurity strategies. This proactive approach is essential for protecting sensitive data and ensuring seamless operation.

It is imperative for businesses to remain vigilant and updated on potential threats, evolving their security measures accordingly to counteract emerging risks.

Security experts recommend investing in cybersecurity training for employees, cultivating a culture of security awareness throughout the organisation. This holistic approach fortifies defences against potential breaches.

The revelation of this WordPress vulnerability serves as a stark reminder of the ever-present threats in the digital landscape. Businesses must act decisively, implementing robust security measures, to safeguard their assets and clients.

The importance of swift action and continuous vigilance cannot be understated as organisations navigate the complexities of cybersecurity.


In light of the discovered WordPress vulnerability, immediate measures are essential. Organisations must prioritise cybersecurity to safeguard sensitive information and maintain trust.

The cybersecurity landscape demands vigilance and proactive measures to protect against emerging threats. Businesses must adapt quickly to ensure comprehensive protection.

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