CVE-2023-6187: The Paid Memberships Pro plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to insufficient file type validation in the 'pmpro_paypalexp...

Description

The Paid Memberships Pro plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to insufficient file type validation in the 'pmpro_paypalexpress_session_vars_for_user_fields' function in versions up to, and including, 2.12.3. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with subscriber privileges or above, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible. This can be exploited if 2Checkout (deprecated since version 2.6) or PayPal Express is set as the payment method and a custom user field is added that is only visible at profile, and not visible at checkout according to its settings.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

8.8/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H

EPSS Probability

51.53%

98.8th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

Affected Software

Vendor	Product	Versions
Strangerstudios	Paid Memberships Pro	<= 2.12.3

References

Timeline

Published: Nov 18, 2023
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Modified

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2023-6187?

The Paid Memberships Pro plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file uploads due to insufficient file type validation in the 'pmpro_paypalexpress_session_vars_for_user_fields' function in versions up to, and including, 2.12.3. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers with subscriber privileges or above, to upload arbitrary files on the affected site's server which may make remote code execution possible. This can be exploited if 2Checkout (deprecated since version 2.6) or PayPal Express is set as the payment method and a custom user field is added that is only visible at profile, and not visible at checkout according to its settings.

How severe is CVE-2023-6187?

CVE-2023-6187 has a CVSS score of 8.8/10 (HIGH severity). The EPSS model estimates a 51.53% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2023-6187?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.