What Is CSRF?
Cross-Site Request Forgery in WordPress tricks authenticated users into performing unintended actions, like changing settings or submitting forms, without their knowledge. It exploits the trust a site has in a user’s browser, potentially allowing attackers to hijack sessions or manipulate site content.
How Attackers Exploit CSRF
Attackers don’t need to “hack into” your site directly. Instead, they rely on tricking a logged-in user (like you or one of your admins) into unknowingly performing an action. Here’s how it typically works:
1. You’re Logged In
You’re signed into your WordPress site, maybe as an admin, editor, or contributor. Your browser holds your login session (via cookies).
2. You Visit a Malicious Page
You click a link in an email, social media post, or shady website. That page contains hidden code, like a form or script that sends a request to your WordPress site.
3. Your Browser Sends the Request
Because you’re already logged in, your browser automatically includes your session info (cookies). Your site thinks the request is coming from you and executes it.
4.Action Is Performed Without Your Consent
This could be:
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Changing your site settings
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Creating or deleting posts
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Adding a new user
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Even installing a plugin
All without you realizing it.
The Vulnerability
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Theme: Ask Me (WordPress)
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Affected Versions: All versions before 6.8.2
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CVE ID:
What Should You Do Right Now?
Log into your WordPress dashboard
Go to Appearance → Themes
Check your Ask Me Theme version
If it’s less than 6.8.2, update immediately
Why It Matters
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CSRF attacks are sneaky, you won’t know they happened until it’s too late
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Updating takes just a few minutes and protects your site, your users, and your reputation
Bonus Tip: How to Stay Safe Going Forward
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Always keep themes and plugins updated
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Use security plugins like Wordfence or iThemes Security
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Back up your site regularly
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Learn about CSRF and other common threats, knowledge is protection
With over 15 years at Speedster IT, I’ve built a career around helping businesses navigate the evolving world of technology. I publish all the content for the IT Support London Blog and Cyber Security Blog, where I share practical insights on infrastructure upgrades, cybersecurity trends, and smart IT strategies for growing companies.
