CVE-2025-8575 in LWS Cleaner Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 09/12/2025
The LWS Cleaner plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion due to insufficient file path validation in the 'lws_cl_delete_file' function in all versions up to, and including, 2.4.1.3. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-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 • 09/12/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-8575 affects the LWS Cleaner plugin for WordPress, representing a critical security flaw that undermines the integrity of WordPress installations. This vulnerability exists within the plugin's file deletion functionality and specifically targets the 'lws_cl_delete_file' function, which fails to properly validate file paths before executing deletion operations. The flaw is particularly dangerous because it operates within the context of authenticated administrative access, meaning that an attacker who has already gained administrator-level privileges can exploit this weakness to delete arbitrary files on the target server. The vulnerability impacts all versions of the plugin up to and including version 2.4.1.3, making it a widespread concern for WordPress administrators who have not updated their installations.
The technical nature of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the plugin's codebase, which directly corresponds to CWE-73 Improper Neutralization of Special Elements in File Names or Paths. This weakness allows attackers to manipulate file paths through the plugin's deletion interface, bypassing normal file system access controls and permissions. The flaw operates under the principle of path traversal attacks where malicious input can be used to navigate to and delete files outside of the intended directory scope. When an authenticated administrator performs a file deletion operation through the vulnerable plugin, the system fails to properly sanitize the file path parameter, allowing attackers to specify absolute paths or manipulate relative paths to target files outside the plugin's intended scope. This represents a classic example of insufficient validation of file paths, which is a fundamental security principle in web application development.
The operational impact of this vulnerability is severe and potentially catastrophic for affected WordPress installations. While the vulnerability requires an attacker to already possess administrator-level access, the consequences of exploitation are far-reaching and can lead to complete system compromise. The most significant risk occurs when attackers target critical system files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and other sensitive configuration data. Deletion of such files can result in immediate service disruption and may enable further exploitation through the subsequent compromise of the WordPress configuration. Additionally, attackers can target other critical files including plugin files, theme files, or even core WordPress files, potentially leading to complete system takeover. The vulnerability can also be leveraged to create persistent backdoors or to facilitate other attacks by removing security-related files or components that protect the system from further compromise. This type of attack pattern aligns with ATT&CK technique T1078 Valid Accounts, where attackers leverage existing administrative access to escalate their privileges and cause maximum damage through file system manipulation.
Organizations and WordPress administrators should immediately address this vulnerability through proper patch management and security hardening procedures. The most effective mitigation strategy involves updating the LWS Cleaner plugin to a version that properly validates file paths and implements secure deletion mechanisms. This update process should be accompanied by a comprehensive review of all plugin installations to identify similar vulnerabilities in other third-party components. Security practitioners should also implement additional monitoring and logging of file system operations, particularly deletion activities, to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability highlights the importance of input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, where all file operations should be strictly validated against expected parameters. Organizations should also consider implementing web application firewalls and intrusion detection systems that can monitor for suspicious file deletion patterns. Regular security audits and penetration testing should include verification of plugin security practices to prevent similar vulnerabilities from being introduced into the WordPress ecosystem. This vulnerability serves as a reminder that even administrative interfaces require proper security controls, as they represent the most privileged entry points for potential attackers who can cause maximum damage when exploiting such flaws.