CVE-2025-1281 in BM Content Builder Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 09/22/2026
The BM Content Builder plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the ux_cb_remove_layout_ajax() and ux_cb_tools_export_ajax() functions in all versions up to, and excluding, 3.17.1. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, 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).
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 09/22/2026
The BM Content Builder plugin for WordPress contains a critical security vulnerability affecting all versions prior to 3.17.1. This flaw stems from insufficient validation of file paths within two specific administrative functions: ux_cb_remove_layout_ajax and ux_cb_tools_export_ajax. The core technical issue is an arbitrary file deletion weakness, which allows attackers with authenticated access at the Subscriber level or higher to manipulate input parameters to target files outside the intended directory structure. By exploiting this lack of path sanitization, a malicious actor can construct requests that traverse directories using standard relative path sequences, thereby bypassing expected restrictions and targeting sensitive system files on the web server.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe due to its potential for privilege escalation and complete system compromise. While the immediate action is file deletion, the ultimate risk lies in the ability to remove critical configuration or core WordPress files. For instance, deleting wp-config.php, which stores database credentials and security keys, can disrupt site functionality and expose sensitive data if not properly handled by error pages that leak information. More critically, an attacker could delete essential plugin or theme files required for application integrity checks or maintenance scripts. In many web server configurations, the removal of specific control files can lead to a state where remote code execution becomes feasible, allowing the attacker to take full control of the underlying operating system and potentially pivot to other systems within the network infrastructure.
From a classification perspective, this vulnerability aligns with CWE-22: Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, as it involves path traversal leading to unauthorized file access. It also maps to CWE-377: Insecure Temporary File Creation if temporary files are involved in the deletion process without proper safeguards, though the primary vector is arbitrary deletion via CWE-650: Trusting Untrusted Inputs for Critical Operations. Within the MITRE ATT&CK framework, this activity corresponds to T1485: Data Destruction and potentially T1211: Exploitation for Defense Evasion if used to remove security logs or monitoring agents. The low privilege requirement of Subscriber-level access makes it particularly dangerous as it is accessible to users with minimal permissions who may have been granted accounts through registration forms or social login integrations, increasing the attack surface significantly.
Mitigation strategies must prioritize immediate patching and defensive configuration changes. Administrators should upgrade the BM Content Builder plugin to version 3.17.1 or later, which addresses these path validation flaws by implementing strict allow-lists for file paths and ensuring that all user-supplied input is sanitized before being processed by filesystem operations. In environments where upgrading is not immediately possible, web application firewalls can be configured to detect and block requests containing directory traversal sequences such as ../ in parameters associated with the affected AJAX endpoints. Additionally, enforcing least-privilege principles for WordPress roles is essential; administrators should review user accounts to ensure that Subscriber-level access does not grant unnecessary capabilities related to content management or tool exports unless strictly required. Regular auditing of file permissions and monitoring server logs for unusual deletion patterns can also aid in early detection and response to potential exploitation attempts.