What the vulnerability does
01Description
The WatchTowerHQ plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file read via the 'wht_download_big_object_origin' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 3.16.0. This is due to insufficient path validation in the handle_big_object_download_request function. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with administrator-level access and a valid access token, to read arbitrary files on the server, which can contain sensitive information such as database credentials and authentication keys.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
WatchTowerHQ versions up to 3.16.0 contain a path traversal vulnerability that allows authenticated administrators to read arbitrary files from the server. An attacker with high-level privileges can bypass directory restrictions and access sensitive files outside the intended application directory. This affects confidentiality but not system integrity or availability.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Read arbitrary files from the server filesystem.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Administrators with malicious intent or compromised admin accounts can access sensitive files like configuration files, database credentials, or private keys.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have administrator-level access to WatchTowerHQ.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
December 12, 2025
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated
