Vulnerability Description
The WP Password Policy plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Privilege Escalation in all versions up to and including 3.7.1. This is due to missing authorization checks and nonce verification in the `get_user()` function of the `Module_Password_Hint` class, which unconditionally calls `WP_User::set_role()` with the attacker-supplied `role` parameter on any account resolved via `$_POST['user_login']`, without confirming the requesting user holds the capability to assign roles. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access and above, to escalate their own privileges to Administrator by submitting a crafted POST request — with `action` set to `createuser` and `role` set to `administrator` — to the password-reset form endpoint. The vulnerable code path is reachable via the `password_hint` filter hooked during the WordPress password-reset form render, meaning an attacker need only possess a valid password-reset cookie to reach the sink.
CVSS Score
HIGH
Related Weaknesses (CWE)
References
- https://plugins.trac.wordpress.org/browser/password-requirements/tags/3.7.1/src/
- https://plugins.trac.wordpress.org/browser/password-requirements/tags/3.7.1/src/
- https://www.wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/id/4ad5ca1c-b8c3-42c0-817
FAQ
What is CVE-2026-15992?
CVE-2026-15992 is a vulnerability with a CVSS score of 8.8 (HIGH). The WP Password Policy plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Privilege Escalation in all versions up to and including 3.7.1. This is due to missing authorization checks and nonce verification in the `...
How severe is CVE-2026-15992?
CVE-2026-15992 has been rated HIGH with a CVSS base score of 8.8/10. Review the CVSS metrics above for detailed severity breakdown.
Is there a patch for CVE-2026-15992?
Check the references section above for vendor advisories and patch information. Review vendor security bulletins for remediation guidance.