CVE-2016-20080 in Brandfolder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 06/15/2026
WordPress Brandfolder plugin version 3.0 and earlier contains a local file inclusion vulnerability in callback.php that allows unauthenticated attackers to include arbitrary files by manipulating the wp_abspath parameter. Attackers can supply path traversal sequences or remote URLs through the wp_abspath parameter to read sensitive files like wp-config.php or execute remote code.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 06/15/2026
The WordPress Brandfolder plugin vulnerability represents a critical local file inclusion flaw that undermines the security posture of affected installations. This vulnerability exists within the callback.php script and affects all versions up to and including 3.0, creating a significant attack surface for unauthenticated threat actors. The flaw stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization mechanisms that fail to properly filter user-supplied parameters, particularly the wp_abspath parameter that controls file inclusion operations.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows attackers to manipulate the wp_abspath parameter through malicious input sequences that trigger path traversal behaviors. When the plugin processes this parameter without proper validation, it becomes susceptible to both local file inclusion attacks and remote code execution exploits. The vulnerability specifically targets the callback.php endpoint which serves as an entry point for file operations, making it a prime target for attackers seeking to access sensitive system files or execute arbitrary code on the affected server.
From an operational impact perspective, this vulnerability exposes WordPress installations to severe security risks including unauthorized data access, system compromise, and potential full system control. Attackers can leverage the vulnerability to read critical configuration files such as wp-config.php which contains database credentials, authentication keys, and other sensitive information that could lead to complete system takeover. The unauthenticated nature of the attack means that any external party can exploit this flaw without requiring valid credentials, making it particularly dangerous for publicly accessible WordPress installations.
The vulnerability aligns with CWE-22 Path Traversal and CWE-94 Code Injection categories, representing a classic example of insufficient input validation that enables attackers to manipulate application behavior. From an attack framework perspective, this vulnerability maps to ATT&CK technique T1059 Command and Scripting Interpreter and T1083 File and Directory Discovery, as attackers can use the flaw to execute commands and enumerate system files. The attack chain typically begins with reconnaissance to identify vulnerable installations, followed by exploitation using crafted path traversal sequences that bypass normal file access controls.
Mitigation strategies should focus on immediate patching of the Brandfolder plugin to version 3.1 or later where the vulnerability has been addressed through proper input validation and parameter sanitization. Organizations should implement network-level protections such as web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious path traversal patterns targeting the callback.php endpoint. Additionally, system administrators should conduct comprehensive vulnerability assessments to identify all instances of the affected plugin and ensure proper access controls are in place to limit exposure. Regular security monitoring and log analysis should be implemented to detect suspicious file access patterns that may indicate exploitation attempts. The remediation process must also include disabling unnecessary file inclusion features and implementing strict input validation policies that prevent attackers from manipulating file path parameters through user-supplied inputs.