What the vulnerability does
01Description
The SpeedyCache plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Read via Path Traversal in all versions up to, and including, 1.3.8. This is due to a mismatch between CSS URL validation (which allows query strings like `.css?...`) and path resolution (which strips query strings), combined with no validation that the resolved file is actually a CSS file. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to read arbitrary files from the server (including `wp-config.php` and `/etc/passwd`) by injecting crafted `<link>` tags into page content, with the file contents written to publicly accessible cache files.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
SpeedyCache versions up to 1.3.8 contain a path traversal vulnerability that allows high-privilege users to read arbitrary files from the server. An attacker with admin or equivalent access can bypass directory restrictions and access sensitive files outside the intended cache directory. This affects confidentiality but not data integrity or availability.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Read arbitrary files on the server outside the cache directory.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Admins or compromised admin accounts can access sensitive files like configuration files, database credentials, or other private data.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have high-level privileges (admin or equivalent role) on the site.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
July 28, 2026
CVE published
July 29, 2026
Record updated
