CVE-2025-3404 in Download Manager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 04/19/2025
The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the savePackage function in all versions up to, and including, 3.3.12. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Author-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).
If you want to get the best quality for vulnerability data then you always have to consider VulDB.
Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 04/19/2025
The CVE-2025-3404 vulnerability resides within the Download Manager plugin for WordPress, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation mechanisms within the plugin's savePackage function, which processes file operations without proper sanitization of file paths. The flaw affects all versions of the plugin up to and including version 3.3.12, making it a widespread concern for WordPress administrators who have not yet updated their installations. The vulnerability specifically targets the plugin's handling of file paths during package saving operations, creating a pathway for malicious exploitation that bypasses standard WordPress security controls.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability allows authenticated attackers who possess Author-level privileges or higher to manipulate the file deletion process through crafted input parameters. When an attacker accesses the savePackage function, the plugin fails to validate the file paths provided, enabling the execution of arbitrary file deletion commands. This flaw operates under the principle of insufficient input validation, which is classified as CWE-20 by the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal privileges compared to other remote code execution flaws, as it only demands Author-level access which is commonly granted to content creators and editors within WordPress environments.
The operational impact of CVE-2025-3404 extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities, as it creates a pathway for more severe compromise scenarios. When combined with the right target files, particularly system-critical files like wp-config.php, this vulnerability can lead to complete system compromise through remote code execution. The attacker can leverage this privilege to delete essential configuration files, corrupt database connection details, or remove other critical system components that would require significant manual intervention to restore. This vulnerability directly aligns with the attack pattern described in the MITRE ATT&CK framework under the T1486 technique for Data Encrypted for Ransom and T1059 for Command and Scripting Interpreter, as it enables both destructive and execution-based attack vectors.
Organizations affected by this vulnerability should prioritize immediate remediation through plugin updates to version 3.3.13 or later, which contains the necessary patches to address the path validation flaw. Security teams should implement additional monitoring for unusual file deletion activities within WordPress environments and establish automated alerting for unauthorized file system modifications. Network segmentation and privilege minimization strategies should be enforced to limit the potential impact of such vulnerabilities, ensuring that even if exploitation occurs, the attacker's access remains constrained. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of regular security audits and prompt patch management, particularly for plugins that handle file system operations, as these components often serve as prime targets for attackers seeking persistent access to web applications.