CVE-2025-11973 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path) affecting the 简数采集器 plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 2.6.3. The flaw exists in the __kds_flag functionality, which is responsible for importing featured images into WordPress posts. An authenticated attacker with administrator-level privileges can exploit this vulnerability to read arbitrary files on the web server. This is achieved by manipulating the file path parameters processed by the plugin, bypassing intended restrictions and allowing access to sensitive server files that may contain credentials, configuration data, or other confidential information. The vulnerability does not require user interaction beyond authentication and does not impact integrity or availability directly, but it compromises confidentiality. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.9 (medium), with the vector indicating network attack vector, low attack complexity, high privileges required, no user interaction, and impact limited to confidentiality. No public exploits or patches are currently available, but the vulnerability is published and recognized by Wordfence. The plugin is developed by the vendor 'zhengdon' and is used primarily in WordPress environments, which are widely deployed globally, including Europe.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a moderate risk primarily to the confidentiality of sensitive data hosted on WordPress sites using the 简数采集器 plugin. Attackers with administrator access could read configuration files, database credentials, or other sensitive documents, potentially leading to further compromise or data leakage. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and e-commerce that rely on WordPress for content management and use this plugin are at higher risk. The requirement for administrator-level access limits the attack surface but insider threats or compromised admin accounts could be leveraged. The vulnerability does not directly affect system integrity or availability but could facilitate subsequent attacks or data breaches. Given the widespread use of WordPress in Europe and the increasing targeting of CMS platforms, this vulnerability could be exploited in targeted attacks against high-value organizations. The absence of known exploits reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, especially as exploit code could be developed.

1. Restrict administrator access strictly to trusted personnel and enforce strong authentication mechanisms such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 2. Monitor WordPress logs and server file access patterns for unusual or unauthorized file read attempts, particularly related to the __kds_flag functionality. 3. Temporarily disable or uninstall the 简数采集器 plugin if it is not essential until a security patch is released. 4. Implement web application firewalls (WAF) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the vulnerable plugin endpoints. 5. Regularly audit installed WordPress plugins for vulnerabilities and maintain an up-to-date inventory to prioritize patching. 6. Once a patch or update is available from the vendor, apply it promptly and verify the fix. 7. Conduct security awareness training for administrators to recognize phishing and social engineering attempts that could lead to credential theft. 8. Employ principle of least privilege for WordPress roles to limit the number of users with administrator rights. 9. Consider isolating WordPress instances in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromise occurs.