CVE-2025-1730 in Simple Download Counter Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/01/2025
The Simple Download Counter plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Read in all versions up to, and including, 2.0 via the 'simple_download_counter_download_handler'. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Author-level access and above, to extract sensitive data including any local file on the server, such as wp-config.php or /etc/passwd.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/01/2025
The Simple Download Counter plugin for WordPress presents a critical arbitrary file read vulnerability designated as CVE-2025-1730 that affects all versions through 2.0. This vulnerability resides within the 'simple_download_counter_download_handler' component and represents a severe security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations. The vulnerability enables authenticated attackers who possess Author-level permissions or higher to access any local file on the affected server, creating a pathway for extensive data exfiltration and system compromise. The flaw directly violates fundamental security principles by allowing unauthorized file access through legitimate plugin functionality, effectively bypassing normal file system access controls.
This vulnerability maps directly to CWE-22 known as "Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1566.001 for initial access through malicious files. The technical implementation flaw occurs when the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize file paths provided through user input, allowing attackers to manipulate the download handler to request arbitrary files. The vulnerability exploits the lack of proper input validation and path traversal controls within the plugin's file handling mechanism, enabling attackers to construct malicious file paths that circumvent normal security boundaries.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-1730 extends far beyond simple data theft, as attackers can extract critical system files including wp-config.php which contains database credentials, authentication keys, and other sensitive configuration data. Additionally, the vulnerability allows access to system files such as /etc/passwd, providing attackers with information about system users and potentially enabling further attacks. This capability creates a significant risk for WordPress installations where authors or higher-privileged users have been compromised, as it transforms routine plugin usage into a vector for complete system reconnaissance and potential full compromise of the hosting environment.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should immediately implement multiple layers of mitigation strategies. The primary recommendation involves upgrading to the latest version of the Simple Download Counter plugin where the vulnerability has been patched. System administrators should also implement network-level restrictions to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive files, employ proper access control measures to limit user privileges, and conduct thorough security audits of all installed plugins. Additionally, implementing web application firewalls with file access monitoring capabilities can help detect and prevent exploitation attempts. The vulnerability underscores the importance of regular plugin updates and comprehensive security monitoring, as it demonstrates how seemingly benign functionality can become a critical attack vector when proper input validation is absent from the code implementation.