CVE-2026-2426 in WP-DownloadManager Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/18/2026
The WP-DownloadManager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Path Traversal in all versions up to, and including, 1.69 via the 'file' parameter in the file deletion functionality. This is due to insufficient validation of user-supplied file paths, allowing directory traversal sequences. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to delete arbitrary files on the server, which can lead to remote code execution when critical files like wp-config.php are deleted.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/18/2026
The WP-DownloadManager plugin for WordPress presents a critical path traversal vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-2426 affecting all versions up to and including 1.69. This vulnerability specifically targets the file deletion functionality where the plugin fails to properly validate user-supplied file paths through the 'file' parameter. The flaw stems from inadequate input sanitization mechanisms that allow malicious actors to manipulate directory traversal sequences such as ../ or ..\ to navigate outside the intended directory boundaries. Security researchers have classified this issue under CWE-22 Path Traversal vulnerability, which represents a well-known weakness in software systems where insufficient validation of file paths permits unauthorized access to files outside the intended scope.
Authenticated attackers with administrator-level privileges can exploit this vulnerability to delete arbitrary files on the affected WordPress server. The security implications are severe because the vulnerability operates within the context of a privileged user account, eliminating the need for additional authentication mechanisms. When combined with the ability to delete critical system files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and cryptographic keys, attackers can potentially achieve complete system compromise and remote code execution. This represents a significant escalation of privilege vulnerability that can lead to full system takeover, data exfiltration, and persistent access to the compromised environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple file deletion capabilities and represents a serious threat to WordPress site integrity and security posture. Attackers can leverage this weakness to remove core WordPress files, plugin files, or theme files, potentially causing site downtime or complete system failure. The vulnerability's exploitation requires only an authenticated administrator account, making it particularly dangerous as it can be exploited by insiders or compromised administrators. This attack vector aligns with ATT&CK technique T1059.001 Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell, as attackers may use PowerShell scripts to execute malicious commands on compromised systems, and T1078 Valid Accounts, since the attack requires legitimate administrative credentials. Organizations running vulnerable versions of the WP-DownloadManager plugin face potential data breaches, service disruption, and compliance violations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2026-2426 should prioritize immediate plugin updates to versions that address the path traversal vulnerability. System administrators must ensure that all WordPress installations maintain current plugin versions and implement regular security audits to identify and remediate similar vulnerabilities. Additional protective measures include implementing web application firewalls that can detect and block malicious path traversal attempts, restricting file system permissions for WordPress directories, and establishing robust backup procedures that can quickly restore compromised systems. The vulnerability demonstrates the importance of input validation and proper access controls, principles that align with security frameworks such as NIST SP 800-53 and ISO 27001. Organizations should also consider implementing privileged access management solutions to limit administrative access and monitor for suspicious activities that may indicate exploitation attempts.