CVE-2025-15020
Arbitrary File Read in Gotham Block Extra Light Plugin
Publication date: 2026-01-14
Last updated on: 2026-04-08
Assigner: Wordfence
Description
Description
CVSS Scores
EPSS Scores
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Meta Information
Affected Vendors & Products
| Vendor | Product | Version / Range |
|---|---|---|
| unknown_vendor | gotham_block_extra_light | to 1.5.0 (inc) |
Helpful Resources
Exploitability
| CWE ID | Description |
|---|---|
| CWE-22 | The product uses external input to construct a pathname that is intended to identify a file or directory that is located underneath a restricted parent directory, but the product does not properly neutralize special elements within the pathname that can cause the pathname to resolve to a location that is outside of the restricted directory. |
Attack-Flow Graph
AI Powered Q&A
Can you explain this vulnerability to me?
The vulnerability in the Gotham Block Extra Light WordPress plugin (up to version 1.5.0) involves the 'ghostban' shortcode, which allows authenticated users with contributor-level access or higher to read arbitrary files on the server. This happens because the shortcode processes URLs and caches remote images locally, but improper validation or handling can be exploited to read sensitive files on the server. [2]
How can this vulnerability impact me? :
This vulnerability can allow an attacker with contributor-level access to read arbitrary files on the server, potentially exposing sensitive information such as configuration files, credentials, or other private data. This can lead to information disclosure without affecting the integrity or availability of the system.
How can this vulnerability be detected on my network or system? Can you suggest some commands?
Detection of this vulnerability involves identifying if the Gotham Block Extra Light plugin version 1.5.0 or earlier is installed and if the 'ghostban' shortcode is being used. Since the vulnerability allows authenticated users with contributor-level access to read arbitrary files via the shortcode, monitoring for unusual file read activities or shortcode usage in WordPress logs could help. Specific commands are not provided in the resources, but checking the plugin version via WordPress CLI (e.g., `wp plugin list`) and searching for usage of the 'ghostban' shortcode in posts or pages (e.g., `wp post list --field=post_content | grep ghostban`) may assist in detection. [2]
What immediate steps should I take to mitigate this vulnerability?
Immediate mitigation steps include updating the Gotham Block Extra Light plugin to a version newer than 1.5.0 where the security fix has been applied. If an update is not immediately available, restrict contributor-level and above users from using the 'ghostban' shortcode or disable the plugin temporarily. Additionally, review and harden file permissions in the WordPress uploads directory to prevent unauthorized file reads. Monitoring and limiting shortcode usage and access rights can reduce exploitation risk. [2]
How does this vulnerability affect compliance with common standards and regulations (like GDPR, HIPAA)?:
The vulnerability allows authenticated attackers with contributor-level access to read arbitrary files on the server, which can include sensitive information. This exposure of sensitive data could lead to non-compliance with data protection regulations such as GDPR and HIPAA, which require safeguarding personal and sensitive information from unauthorized access. [2]