The vulnerability identified as CVE-2025-2004 affects the Simple WP Events plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 1.8.17. It arises from insufficient validation of file paths in the wpe_delete_file AJAX action, which allows an attacker to specify arbitrary file paths for deletion on the server. Because the plugin does not properly sanitize or restrict the file paths, an unauthenticated attacker can craft requests that delete critical files such as wp-config.php, which contains database credentials and configuration settings. Deletion of such files can disrupt website functionality and potentially enable remote code execution by forcing the site to regenerate configuration or by exploiting subsequent vulnerabilities. The vulnerability requires no authentication or user interaction, making it trivially exploitable remotely over the network. The CVSS v3.1 base score of 9.1 reflects the high impact on integrity and availability, with network attack vector, low attack complexity, and no privileges or user interaction required. Although no exploits are currently known in the wild, the vulnerability's nature and ease of exploitation make it a significant threat to WordPress sites using this plugin. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure further increases risk. This vulnerability falls under CWE-73 (External Control of File Name or Path), a common class of flaws leading to unauthorized file system access. Organizations using the Simple WP Events plugin should consider immediate mitigation steps to prevent exploitation.

The impact of CVE-2025-2004 is severe for organizations running WordPress sites with the vulnerable Simple WP Events plugin. Successful exploitation allows attackers to delete arbitrary files on the web server without authentication, threatening website integrity and availability. Critical files such as wp-config.php can be deleted, potentially causing site downtime, data loss, or enabling further attacks like remote code execution. This can lead to defacement, data breaches, or complete compromise of the web server. The vulnerability affects all versions of the plugin up to 1.8.17, which may be widely deployed given WordPress's popularity. Organizations relying on this plugin for event management may face service disruption and reputational damage. The ease of exploitation and lack of required privileges increase the likelihood of automated attacks once exploits become available. Additionally, the vulnerability could be leveraged as a foothold for lateral movement within an organization's network if the web server is connected to internal resources. Overall, the threat poses a critical risk to confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems.

Until an official patch is released, organizations should take immediate steps to mitigate the risk from CVE-2025-2004. First, disable or uninstall the Simple WP Events plugin if it is not essential. If the plugin is required, restrict access to the wpe_delete_file AJAX endpoint by implementing web application firewall (WAF) rules that block requests to this action or limit it to trusted IP addresses. Additionally, apply strict file system permissions to prevent the web server user from deleting critical files outside designated directories. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests targeting the wpe_delete_file action and unusual file deletion activity. Regularly back up website files and databases to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. Once the vendor releases a patch, apply it promptly. Consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) or endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions to detect exploitation attempts. Educate website administrators about the risk and encourage timely updates of all WordPress plugins. Finally, conduct a security audit of the WordPress environment to identify and remediate other potential vulnerabilities.