Skip to main content
EPSS 0.3%top 74%

CVE-2026-5114: CWE-22 Improper Limitation of a Pathname to a Restricted Directory ('Path Traversal') in softaculous SpeedyCache – Cache, Optimization, Performance

0
Medium
VulnerabilityCVE-2026-5114cvecve-2026-5114cwe-22
Published: 07/28/2026 (07/28/2026, 18:35:52 UTC)
Source: CVE Database V5
Vendor/Project: softaculous
Product: SpeedyCache – Cache, Optimization, Performance

Description

The SpeedyCache plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Read via Path Traversal in all versions up to, and including, 1.3.8. This is due to a mismatch between CSS URL validation (which allows query strings like `.css?...`) and path resolution (which strips query strings), combined with no validation that the resolved file is actually a CSS file. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Administrator-level access and above, to read arbitrary files from the server (including `wp-config.php` and `/etc/passwd`) by injecting crafted `<link>` tags into page content, with the file contents written to publicly accessible cache files.

CVSS v3.1

Score 4.9medium

Attack Vector
Network
Attack Complexity
Low
Privileges Required
High
User Interaction
None
Scope
Unchanged
Confidentiality
High
Integrity
None
Availability
None
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N

Affected software

softaculous

SpeedyCache – Cache, Optimization, Performance

Affected versions
>=0 <=1.3.8

AI-Powered Analysis

Machine-generated threat intelligence

AILast updated: 07/29/2026, 21:24:25 UTC

Technical Analysis

CVE-2026-5114 describes a path traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) in the SpeedyCache plugin for WordPress. The issue arises from a mismatch between CSS URL validation, which permits query strings, and path resolution, which strips them, combined with a lack of validation ensuring the resolved file is a CSS file. Authenticated users with administrator privileges can exploit this by injecting crafted <link> tags into page content, causing arbitrary files on the server to be read and their contents written to publicly accessible cache files. This enables disclosure of sensitive server files such as wp-config.php and /etc/passwd. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 1.3.8. No patch or official fix has been documented as of the published date.

Potential Impact

An attacker with administrator-level access can read arbitrary files on the server, potentially exposing sensitive configuration and system files. This compromises confidentiality but does not affect integrity or availability. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 4.9 (medium severity), reflecting the requirement for high privileges and no user interaction.

Mitigation Recommendations

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until a fix is available, restrict administrator access to trusted users only and monitor for suspicious activity involving crafted <link> tags. Avoid using vulnerable versions of SpeedyCache if possible.

Pro Console: star threats, build custom feeds, automate alerts via Slack, email & webhooks.Upgrade to Pro

Technical Details

Data Version
5.2
Assigner Short Name
Wordfence
Date Reserved
2026-03-29T21:55:12.924Z
Cvss Version
3.1
State
PUBLISHED

Threat ID: 6a68fdfd9c2644c7f811682e

Added to database: 07/28/2026, 19:07:41 UTC

Last enriched: 07/29/2026, 21:24:25 UTC

Last updated: 09/11/2026, 22:06:34 UTC

Views: 86

Community Reviews

0 reviews

Crowdsource mitigation strategies, share intel context, and vote on the most helpful responses. Sign in to add your voice and help keep defenders ahead.

Sort by
Loading community insights…

Want to contribute mitigation steps or threat intel context? Sign in or create an account to join the community discussion.

Actions

PRO

Updates to AI analysis require Pro Console access. Upgrade inside Console → Billing.

Please log in to the Console to use AI analysis features.

Need more coverage?

Upgrade to Pro Console for AI refresh and higher limits.

For incident response and remediation, OffSeq services can help resolve threats faster.

Latest Threats

Breach by OffSeqOFFSEQFRIENDS — 25% OFF

Check if your credentials are on the dark web

Instant breach scanning across billions of leaked records. Free tier available.

Scan now
OffSeq TrainingCredly Certified

Lead Pen Test Professional

Technical5-day eLearningPECB Accredited
View courses