CVE-2025-68591 identifies a Missing Authorization vulnerability in the Simple File List plugin developed by Mitchell Bennis, affecting all versions up to and including 6.1.15. This vulnerability arises from incorrectly configured access control mechanisms that fail to properly verify user permissions before granting access to file listings and downloads. An attacker with low privileges (PR:L) can exploit this flaw remotely (AV:N) without any user interaction (UI:N) to access or manipulate files that should be restricted. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality and integrity (C:H/I:H) but does not affect availability (A:N). The CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.1 reflects the high risk due to the ease of exploitation and the sensitive nature of the data potentially exposed. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's characteristics make it a prime target for attackers seeking unauthorized data access. The plugin is commonly used in WordPress environments to manage and share files, making websites that rely on it vulnerable to data leakage and unauthorized file access. The issue stems from missing or improperly enforced authorization checks in the plugin’s code, allowing attackers to bypass security controls. Organizations using Simple File List should monitor for updates from the vendor and apply patches promptly once available. In the interim, restricting access to the plugin’s endpoints via web server configurations or network controls can reduce exposure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive or confidential files managed via the Simple File List plugin. This could include internal documents, customer data, or intellectual property, resulting in data breaches and compliance violations under regulations such as GDPR. The integrity of files could also be compromised, allowing attackers to modify or replace files, potentially leading to further exploitation or misinformation. The lack of required user interaction and the ability to exploit remotely increase the risk of automated or widespread attacks. Organizations in sectors with high data sensitivity, such as finance, healthcare, and government, are particularly at risk. The exposure could damage reputation, incur regulatory fines, and disrupt business operations. Since the vulnerability does not affect availability, denial-of-service impacts are unlikely, but the confidentiality and integrity risks alone justify urgent remediation.

1. Monitor the vendor’s official channels for a security patch addressing CVE-2025-68591 and apply it immediately upon release. 2. Until a patch is available, restrict access to the Simple File List plugin’s directories and endpoints using web server access controls (e.g., .htaccess rules, IP whitelisting). 3. Implement strict authentication and authorization policies at the application and network layers to limit access to trusted users only. 4. Conduct regular audits of file access logs to detect unauthorized access attempts or anomalies. 5. Consider temporarily disabling the plugin if it is not essential or replacing it with alternative secure file management solutions. 6. Educate administrators and users about the risks and encourage prompt reporting of suspicious activity. 7. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block exploitation attempts targeting this vulnerability. 8. Review and harden WordPress security configurations overall to reduce attack surface.