CVE-2026-16616

Deferred Deferred - Pending Action

Unauthenticated File Read and Path Traversal in Simple File List WordPress Plugin

Publication date: 2026-08-19

Last updated on: 2026-08-26

Assigner: WPScan

Description

The Simple File List WordPress plugin through 6.3.11 does not validate the source path of a file-move operation reachable by unauthenticated users, allowing them to read arbitrary files on the server and to relocate critical files out of the web root, leading to sensitive information disclosure and potential site takeover.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
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Meta Information

Published

2026-08-19

Last Modified

2026-08-26

Generated

2026-09-08

AI Q&A

2026-08-19

EPSS Evaluated

2026-09-07

NVD

CVE-2026-16616

EUVD

EUVD-2026-62271

Affected Vendors & Products

Vendor	Product	Version / Range
simple_file_list	plugin	to 6.3.11 (inc)
simple_file_list	plugin	to 6.3.12 (exc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE

KEV

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

Executive Summary

The Simple File List WordPress plugin through version 6.3.11 has a vulnerability where unauthenticated users can exploit path traversal to read arbitrary files on the server or move critical files outside the web root. This leads to sensitive information disclosure and potential site takeover.

Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, check if the Simple File List WordPress plugin version 6.3.11 or below is installed. Review server logs for unusual file read or move operations, especially from unauthenticated users. Test for path traversal by attempting to access sensitive files like /etc/passwd or wp-config.php through the plugin's file operations.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could access sensitive files like configuration files, user data, or credentials, leading to data breaches. They could also move essential files out of the web root, causing the website to malfunction or become inaccessible.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to personal or sensitive data, violating GDPR and HIPAA compliance requirements. Organizations may face legal penalties, fines, or reputational damage due to data breaches resulting from this issue.

Mitigation Strategies

Immediately disable or uninstall the Simple File List plugin if installed. Restrict file system permissions to prevent unauthorized access. Monitor server logs for suspicious activity. Check for any moved or deleted critical files and restore them from backups if necessary.

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