CVE-2025-15487 is a path traversal vulnerability classified under CWE-22 found in the Code Explorer plugin for WordPress, developed by qriouslad. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 1.4.6 and is triggered via the 'file' parameter. An authenticated attacker with Administrator-level privileges or higher can exploit this flaw to read arbitrary files on the server by manipulating the pathname input without proper validation or restriction to a safe directory. This can lead to exposure of sensitive information such as configuration files, credentials, or other critical data stored on the server. The vulnerability does not allow modification or deletion of files, nor does it affect system availability. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 4.9, reflecting medium severity due to the requirement for high privileges and the network attack vector. No user interaction is needed, and the scope remains unchanged as the exploit affects the same security domain. Currently, there are no known exploits in the wild, but the vulnerability poses a risk to WordPress sites using this plugin, especially those with multiple administrators or where administrator credentials may be compromised. The lack of a patch link indicates that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for interim mitigations.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive server-side files, potentially including database credentials, private keys, or internal configuration files. Such data leakage can facilitate further attacks, including privilege escalation, lateral movement, or data exfiltration. Organizations relying on WordPress with the Code Explorer plugin, especially those with multiple administrators, face increased risk if an attacker gains administrator access through phishing or credential compromise. The impact is primarily on confidentiality, with no direct effect on system integrity or availability. Given the widespread use of WordPress across Europe, particularly in sectors like government, finance, and media, the exposure of sensitive information could have regulatory and reputational consequences, including violations of GDPR if personal data is involved. The medium severity score reflects the balance between the high privilege requirement and the potential sensitivity of exposed data.

1. Immediately restrict access to the Code Explorer plugin to only trusted administrators and consider disabling or uninstalling the plugin if not essential. 2. Monitor administrator account activities for unusual file access patterns or suspicious behavior. 3. Implement strict file system permissions on the server to limit the files accessible by the web server process and the plugin. 4. Use Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) to detect and block suspicious path traversal attempts targeting the 'file' parameter. 5. Regularly audit WordPress plugins and update them promptly once a patch for this vulnerability is released. 6. Employ multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all administrator accounts to reduce the risk of credential compromise. 7. Conduct security awareness training focused on phishing and credential security for administrators. 8. If possible, isolate WordPress instances in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement in case of compromise.