gVectors wpDiscuz - SQLi (CVE-2020-13640)

CVE-2020-13640 is a critical SQL injection vulnerability in the gVectors wpDiscuz plugin for WordPress versions 5.3.5 and earlier, allowing remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the order parameter in wpdLoadMoreComments requests. This flaw could be exploited to compromise database integrity, steal sensitive information, or escalate privileges on affected WordPress sites.

CrowdSec has been tracking this vulnerability and its exploits since 15th of October 2025.

Data from the CrowdSec community indicates that exploitation of CVE-2020-13640 is highly selective and intelligence-driven. Threat actors use advanced reconnaissance and carefully choose their targets, often as part of sophisticated campaigns or advanced persistent threat operations. Data from the CrowdSec community also indicates a gradual decrease in attacks targeting CVE-2020-13640. While still present in the wild, exploitation levels have dropped noticeably week-over-week. This may signal that the vulnerability is becoming less relevant or that defenses are improving fast enough for attackers to lose interest.

Attackers exploit the /wp-content/plugins/wpdiscuz/utils/ajax/wpdiscuz-ajax.php endpoint by injecting malicious SQL code into the order parameter of wpdLoadMoreComments POST requests.