What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Simple File List plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the eeSFL_DeleteFile function in all versions up to, and including, 6.3.7. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to delete arbitrary files on the server, which can easily lead to remote code execution when the right file is deleted (such as wp-config.php). The simplefilelist_edit_job AJAX action is registered via wp_ajax_nopriv_, making it accessible without authentication, and the is_admin() guard that would otherwise restrict access is bypassed because is_admin() always returns true for requests to the admin-ajax.php endpoint.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
Simple File List versions 6.3.7 and earlier contain a path traversal vulnerability that allows unauthenticated attackers to read arbitrary files from the server. An attacker can craft requests to access files outside the intended directory, potentially exposing sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other confidential data. No user interaction is required.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Read arbitrary files from the server, including sensitive configuration and credential files.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Attackers can access sensitive files like wp-config.php, .env, or database backups without logging in.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Network access to the site; no authentication or user interaction required.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
June 20, 2026
CVE published
