CVE-2025-11072 identifies a path traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) in the MelAbu WP Download Counter Button WordPress plugin versions up to 1.8.6.7. The vulnerability arises because the plugin fails to properly validate or sanitize the file paths requested for download. This flaw allows an unauthenticated attacker to craft specially manipulated requests that traverse directories outside the intended download directory, enabling access to arbitrary files on the web server. Such files could include sensitive configuration files, database credentials, or other private data stored on the server. The vulnerability does not require any authentication or user interaction, making it easier to exploit remotely. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the public disclosure and the nature of the vulnerability make it a significant risk. The plugin is commonly used in WordPress environments to track download counts, meaning many websites could be affected if they have not updated or mitigated the issue. The lack of a patch at the time of disclosure increases the urgency for administrators to take protective measures. This vulnerability primarily threatens the confidentiality of data but could also impact integrity if attackers leverage obtained information for further attacks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality of sensitive data hosted on WordPress sites using the affected plugin. Exposure of configuration files or credentials could lead to further compromise of web servers or backend systems. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, or government could face compliance violations (e.g., GDPR) if personal or sensitive data is leaked. The ease of exploitation without authentication increases the likelihood of attacks, potentially leading to data breaches and reputational damage. Additionally, attackers could use the information gained to escalate privileges or conduct lateral movement within networks. The widespread use of WordPress in Europe, including by SMEs and large enterprises, amplifies the potential impact. Disruption of services or loss of customer trust could have financial and operational consequences. The vulnerability also increases the attack surface for threat actors targeting European digital infrastructure.

1. Immediately disable the MelAbu WP Download Counter Button plugin on all affected WordPress sites until a secure patch is released. 2. Monitor official plugin repositories and security advisories for updates or patches addressing CVE-2025-11072 and apply them promptly. 3. Implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block path traversal attempts targeting the plugin's download functionality. 4. Restrict file system permissions on the web server to limit access to sensitive files, ensuring the web server user cannot read critical configuration or credential files. 5. Conduct thorough audits of server logs to identify any suspicious access patterns or exploitation attempts related to this vulnerability. 6. Educate site administrators about the risks of using outdated or unpatched plugins and enforce strict plugin management policies. 7. Consider isolating WordPress instances in segmented network zones to reduce lateral movement risk if compromise occurs. 8. Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable recovery in case of compromise.