CVE-2025-4828 in Support Board Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 07/09/2025
The Support Board plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the sb_file_delete function in all versions up to, and including, 3.8.0. This makes it possible for attackers 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). An attacker can leverage CVE-2025-4855 vulnerability to exploit this vulnerability unauthenticated.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 07/14/2025
The CVE-2025-4828 vulnerability represents a critical security flaw in the Support Board plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to and including 3.8.0. This vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation within the sb_file_delete function, creating a path traversal condition that allows unauthorized users to manipulate file deletion operations. The flaw exists in the plugin's core functionality where file paths are not properly sanitized before being processed, enabling attackers to specify arbitrary file paths for deletion. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it operates at the filesystem level, allowing for direct manipulation of critical server files that could compromise the entire WordPress installation.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability involves the sb_file_delete function failing to validate user-supplied file paths against a whitelist of acceptable locations or properly sanitize the input before executing file deletion operations. This lack of validation creates a condition where an attacker can supply a malicious file path that bypasses normal security checks and directly targets files on the server. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-22 as Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory, which is a well-documented weakness in web application security. When combined with CVE-2025-4855, which likely provides an initial exploitation vector, attackers can achieve unauthenticated access to this functionality, dramatically expanding the attack surface and reducing the barrier to exploitation.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities, as it can lead to complete system compromise through remote code execution. When attackers target critical files such as wp-config.php, they can potentially disrupt database connections, gain access to administrative credentials, or even modify core WordPress files to establish persistent backdoors. The vulnerability's severity is amplified by its potential for chain exploitation, where an attacker can first leverage CVE-2025-4855 to gain initial access, then use CVE-2025-4828 to escalate privileges and delete critical system files. This creates a multi-stage attack pattern that can result in full system compromise and data loss, making it particularly dangerous for organizations relying on WordPress for their web presence.
Organizations should implement immediate mitigations including disabling the affected plugin functionality until a patched version is available, implementing web application firewalls to monitor and block suspicious file deletion requests, and conducting thorough security audits of their WordPress installations. The ATT&CK framework categorizes this vulnerability under T1059.007 for Windows Command Shell and T1078 for Valid Accounts, as attackers may use this vulnerability to establish persistent access or escalate privileges. Additionally, implementing proper input validation and output encoding practices, as recommended by OWASP Application Security Verification Standard, would prevent similar vulnerabilities from occurring in the future. Regular security monitoring and log analysis should specifically focus on file deletion activities and unusual access patterns that could indicate exploitation attempts.