The Tool Desk
Outbyte Driver Updater FREEScan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Older Hunk Companion versions had an unauthenticated REST API flaw that let attackers install and activate plugins without logging in. In a documented attack chain, attackers used that access to install the separate WP Query Console plugin, whose own remote-code-execution flaw enabled further compromise. If your site ran Hunk Companion before version 1.9.0, update it from the official WordPress plugin directory and investigate suspicious activity; updating alone does not establish that an already-compromised site is clean.
What the Hunk Companion flaw allowed
The vulnerable route was /wp-json/hc/v1/themehunk-import. Wordfence’s technical analysis found that its permission callback was set to __return_true, making the endpoint publicly callable. Wordfence summarized the result: “This means that this REST API endpoint is publicly accessible.” An unauthenticated attacker could use the route to install a plugin from WordPress.org. Wordfence’s October 23, 2025 analysis describes the flaw and the later exploitation campaign.
The Hunk Companion weakness provided a way to install and activate a plugin; it was not itself the code-execution flaw in the documented incident. In December 2024, WPScan reported that attackers installed and activated the vulnerable WP Query Console plugin, then exploited that plugin’s separate remote-code-execution vulnerability. In the infections WPScan analyzed, the RCE was used to write a PHP dropper in the WordPress root. The dropper enabled continued unauthenticated uploads and persistent backdoor access. This is a documented attack chain, not evidence that every vulnerable site—or every site receiving a request—was compromised. WPScan’s incident analysis gives further detail.
Which Hunk Companion versions were affected?
There were two related CVEs. The second issue bypassed the fix for the first, so updating only to version 1.8.5 did not address both vulnerabilities.
#1 Best Overall
- Read Before You Buy — No Video Output: These adapters support charging and USB 2.0 data transfer, but cannot transmit video signals. Except for standard USB webcams (which use USB data only), they are not compatible with HDMI/DisplayPort cables, video-capable USB-C hubs, or docking stations with video output.
- Convert USB-A Ports to USB-C: Designed to connect USB-C earphones, cables, flash drives, card readers, and other USB-C accessories to standard USB-A ports. Plug-and-play with no drivers or software required.
- Aluminum Alloy Housing: Built with a sturdy aluminum alloy shell that aids in heat dissipation and protects against daily wear and scratches. Designed to maintain a stable and secure connection.
- Compact & Travel-Friendly: The ultra-compact design allows the adapter to stay plugged into your device without blocking adjacent ports or adding bulk, reducing wear and tear on your original USB ports.
- 12-Month Warranty: Backed by a 12-month manufacturer warranty for peace of mind. Designed to meet strict quality control standards for reliable everyday performance.
| Vulnerability | Affected Hunk Companion versions | Wordfence-listed patched version | Publication date |
|---|---|---|---|
| CVE-2024-9707 | Up to and including 1.8.4 | 1.8.5 | October 10, 2024 |
| CVE-2024-11972 | Up to and including 1.8.5; a bypass of the earlier fix | 1.9.0 | Wordfence’s campaign report identifies 1.9.0 as patched for both issues. |
Wordfence says it received a submission about the arbitrary plugin-installation issue on October 3, 2024. Its advisory for CVE-2024-9707 lists versions through 1.8.4 as affected and 1.8.5 as patched; the later CVE-2024-11972 affected versions through 1.8.5. Wordfence rates both issues CVSS 9.8. That is a severity score, not a measure of the number of successful attacks. See the CVE-2024-9707 advisory and Wordfence’s campaign report.
Wordfence’s historical minimum fix for the two CVEs is version 1.9.0 or later. The official WordPress.org directory listing displayed version 2.0.8 when accessed October 5, 2026, and its changelog included a version 2.0.7 entry reading “Update: Security isssues resolved.” Directory versions can change, so use the current trusted listing and verify the version actually installed on your site. The cited sources do not establish whether releases after 1.9.0 are affected by these specific CVEs. Check the Hunk Companion listing and changelog on WordPress.org.
Rank #2
- 5-in-1 USB-C Hub: Experience comprehensive connectivity featuring a Power Delivery input, two USB-A 2.0 ports, a USB-A 3.0 port, and an HDMI port. (Note: The USB-C power delivery input port is only for connecting an external wall charger to power your laptop and cannot power peripheral devices.)
- 90W Pass-Through Charging: Achieve optimal charging with 90W pass-through power to your laptop, supported by a total input of 100W, with the hub reserving 10W for operational efficiency. (Note: Wall charger not included.)
- Quick Data Transfers: Accelerate your productivity with rapid data transfers using a high-speed 5Gbps USB 3.0 port and two 480Mbps USB 2.0 ports.
- 4K HDMI Display: Enhance your visual experience with a hub capable of delivering 4K resolution at 30Hz in both mirror and extend modes. Please note that this hub is compatible with MacBook (macOS 12 and newer), Windows 10 and 11, ChromeOS, and laptops equipped with DP Alt Mode and Power Delivery. Note: This device is not compatible with Linux.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (5-in-1, 4K HDMI), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Why the issue is back in the news
Wordfence reported that renewed mass exploitation began on October 8, 2025, with activity described on October 8–9. Its October 23, 2025 report said Wordfence had blocked more than 8,755,000 exploit attempts. That figure is Wordfence firewall telemetry: it counts blocked attempts, not unique attacks, infected sites, or confirmed victims. The report does not establish an independent count of compromised websites or show that every blocked request would have succeeded. Read Wordfence’s campaign report.
How to check and respond
- Check the plugin and record its version. In your WordPress dashboard, go to Plugins > Installed Plugins and find Hunk Companion. Any version before 1.9.0 falls within at least one of the two documented affected ranges. Record the version and, if needed, the period the site ran it.
- Update from the trusted directory. Use the update offered in your dashboard or the official WordPress.org Hunk Companion listing. Confirm the installed version afterward. Wordfence’s fix for these two CVEs is 1.9.0; the directory showed 2.0.8 on October 5, 2026.
- Review logs for the vulnerable route. Ask your host or administrator to search web server access logs for requests to
/wp-json/hc/v1/themehunk-import. A matching request is a lead to investigate; by itself, it does not prove that plugin installation succeeded or that the site was compromised. - Inspect plugin-related files if compromise is suspected. Review
wp-content/pluginsandwp-content/upgradefor unexpected plugin directories or files, and scan them. Wordfence specifically recommends reviewing and scanning these locations in its campaign guidance. - Treat suspicious artifacts as an incident, not just an outdated plugin. WPScan documented a PHP dropper and persistent access in the infections it analyzed. If you find unexpected files, plugin installations, or evidence of unauthorized access, have a qualified incident-response professional determine scope and remove persistence. A plugin update closes the known vulnerable path; it does not remove a dropper or prove that other access has been eliminated.
What the evidence does—and does not—show
The reports establish an unauthenticated plugin-installation weakness, a bypass of the first fix, and a documented follow-on WP Query Console compromise chain. Wordfence also reported renewed exploit attempts in 2025. They do not provide a named victim list or an independent count of uniquely compromised sites. A site’s risk depends on its installed version and whether an attacker successfully exploited it; a log entry alone is not confirmation of infection.
Quick wins for a faster PC:
Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minuteDriver Scan →Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Fix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Quick Recap
Best Value
- 5-in-1 Connectivity: Equipped with a 4K HDMI port, a 5 Gbps USB-C data port, two 5 Gbps USB-A ports, and a USB C 100W PD-IN port. Note: The USB C 100W PD-IN port supports only charging and does not support data transfer devices such as headphones or speakers.
- Powerful Pass-Through Charging: Supports up to 85W pass-through charging so you can power up your laptop while you use the hub. Note: Pass-through charging requires a charger (not included). Note: To achieve full power for iPad, we recommend using a 45W wall charger.
- Transfer Files in Seconds: Move files to and from your laptop at speeds of up to 5 Gbps via the USB-C and USB-A data ports. Note: The USB C 5Gbps Data port does not support video output.
- HD Display: Connect to the HDMI port to stream or mirror content to an external monitor in resolutions of up to 4K@30Hz. Note: The USB-C ports do not support video output.
- What You Get: Anker 332 USB-C Hub (5-in-1), welcome guide, our worry-free 18-month warranty, and friendly customer service.
Rank #4
- Dual Converters, Infinite Potential：Includes 2× USB C male to USB A female adapters and 2× USB A male to USB C female adapters. Perfect for a wide range of uses—tablets with Bluetooth keyboards, expand USB ports on macbook, and more. Two different converters for all your daily needs
- Next-Level 10Gbps & 3A Charging: No more slow 480Mbps, this usb to usb c adapter has a transfer speed of up to 10Gbps, allowing you to do more transferring in less time. This usb adapter fits both USB A and USB C charger, supporting up to 3A fast charging
- Upgraded Exquisite Craftsmanship: With an aluminum alloy housing and metal connector, the usbc to usb adapter is extremely durable and sturdy. Rigorously tested to withstand more than 10,000 times of plugging and unplugging, ensuring long-lasting performance
- Broad Compatible: The usb c to usb adapter widely supports all USB C/ USB A devices like laptops, tablets, cellphones, car chargers, and phone chargers. Such as compatible with MacBook Pro/Air 2023/2022, Thunderbolt 4/3 Devices,Apple MagSafe Watch 9/8/7/SE/Ultra, iPad Pro 2022/2021, Samsung Galaxy S23/S20/S10, and iPhone 17/16/15 Pro. Plug and play
- Please Note: To reach 10Gbps speed, keep the cable under 3.3 ft. For USB A Male to USB C adapters, try flipping the USB C connector. USB C Male to USB A adapters support bidirectional 10Gbps transfer within 3.3 ft
Rank #3
- Sleek 7-in-1 USB-C Hub: Features an HDMI port, two USB-A 3.0 ports, and a USB-C data port, each providing 5Gbps transfer speeds. It also includes a USB-C PD input port for charging up to 100W and dual SD and TF card slots, all in a compact design.
- Flawless 4K@60Hz Video with HDMI: Delivers exceptional clarity and smoothness with its 4K@60Hz HDMI port, making it ideal for high-definition presentations and entertainment. (Note: Only the HDMI port supports video projection; the USB-C port is for data transfer only.)
- Double Up on Efficiency: The two USB-A 3.0 ports and a USB-C port support a fast 5Gbps data rate, significantly boosting your transfer speeds and improving productivity.
- Fast and Reliable 85W Charging: Offers high-capacity, speedy charging for laptops up to 85W, so you spend less time tethered to an outlet and more time being productive.
- What You Get: Anker USB-C Hub (7-in-1), welcome guide, 18-month warranty, and our friendly customer service.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
