CVE-2025-54021 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to its CVSS score of 7.5. This vulnerability allows improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, commonly referred to as 'path traversal', affecting the Mitchell Bennis Simple File List plugin. The issue presents a significant risk to organizations that utilize this plugin, especially those operating on versions less than or equal to 6.1.14.
The exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to unauthorized file access, which may compromise sensitive data. The attack vector is network-based, and the complexity is low, meaning that an attacker does not require advanced skills to exploit this vulnerability. Organizations should understand that the risk to their systems is considerable, particularly if they are using outdated versions of the Simple File List plugin.
As of now, this vulnerability has not been confirmed to have any known exploits publicly available, but organizations should remain vigilant. The urgency to patch this vulnerability is high given its potential impact on confidentiality.
Organizations should prioritize patching immediately. Keeping software up to date is crucial in mitigating risks associated with vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-54021.
Vulnerability Details
The official description of CVE-2025-54021 details an improper limitation of a pathname to a restricted directory, leading to potential path traversal vulnerabilities. This issue specifically affects the Simple File List plugin from versions n/a through 6.1.14. The vulnerability has been classified under CWE-22.
The CVSS score of 7.5 indicates a high severity level, emphasizing the importance of addressing this vulnerability without delay. The attack vector is classified as network-based, and the required privileges are none, further highlighting the potential ease of exploitation.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of this vulnerability lies in the inadequate validation of user-supplied input, which allows attackers to manipulate file paths and access files outside the intended directory. This vulnerability is exploited via a network attack, which can be executed without any user interaction, making it particularly dangerous.
Given the low complexity of the attack and the lack of privileges required, even a basic attacker can perform this exploit, leading to a high impact on confidentiality. However, the integrity and availability impacts are marked as none.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The risk to organizations includes the potential for unauthorized access to sensitive files, which may lead to data exposure or breaches. The confidentiality impact is high, indicating that sensitive data could be accessed, while integrity and availability impacts remain unaffected.
Organizations should assess their exposure and prioritize remediation efforts based on the high severity of this vulnerability. The urgency for addressing this vulnerability is underscored by its potential consequences in a deployed environment.
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The affected versions of the Simple File List plugin range from n/a to version 6.1.14. Organizations using these versions should take immediate action to update to a secure version.
Mitigation & Remediation
To mitigate this vulnerability, organizations should upgrade to the latest version of the Simple File List plugin. Regularly updating software is essential in reducing the risk of vulnerabilities. For those unable to upgrade immediately, consider implementing configuration hardening and network controls to limit exposure.
Organizations may also find value in utilizing penetration testing to identify similar weaknesses in their applications.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any unauthorized file access attempts or unusual behavior that may indicate an exploitation of this vulnerability. Additionally, setting up network signatures can help detect potential exploit attempts.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
Understanding the implications of vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-54021 is essential for security teams. The trend of path traversal vulnerabilities indicates a need for enhanced input validation strategies in web applications.
Organizations should continuously improve their security posture to defend against similar vulnerabilities. For further insights, teams can refer to resources such as the penetration testing methodology and the importance of proactive security measures.
In summary, organizations must prioritize addressing vulnerabilities like CVE-2025-54021 to safeguard their systems and data from potential exploitation.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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