File access paths in configuration files uploaded by users with administrator access are not validated
Description
File access paths in configuration files uploaded by users with administrator access are not validated
Remediation
Apply vendor security updates immediately. Monitor for exploitation attempts and review access logs.
Executive Summary:
The Home Villas Real Estate WordPress Theme is vulnerable to an arbitrary file deletion flaw that allows an authenticated attacker to delete critical system files, potentially leading to a complete denial of service.
Vulnerability Details
CVE-ID: CVE-2025-5014
Affected Software: WordPress Home Villas | Real Estate WordPress Theme
Affected Versions: See vendor advisory for specific affected versions
Vulnerability: The vulnerability exists due to insufficient file path validation within the
wp_rem_cs_widget_file_deletefunction. An authenticated attacker can exploit this flaw to delete arbitrary files on the server's filesystem, including critical WordPress core files or server configuration files.Business Impact
A successful exploit could lead to a complete denial of service by deleting critical application or server files, resulting in significant operational disruption and reputational damage. The High severity CVSS score of 8.8 reflects the potential for an attacker with low-level privileges to cause a high-impact integrity and availability loss on the affected web server.
Remediation Plan
Immediate Action: Administrators must immediately update the Home Villas Real Estate WordPress Theme to the latest patched version. If the theme is no longer in use, it should be completely removed from the WordPress installation.
Proactive Monitoring: Monitor web server and application logs for suspicious activity related to the
wp_rem_cs_widget_file_deletefunction. Implement file integrity monitoring to detect unauthorized changes or deletions of critical files.Compensating Controls: Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules designed to block directory traversal patterns and attempts to manipulate file path parameters, which can serve as a virtual patch.
Exploitation Status
Public Exploit Available: false
Analyst Notes: As of July 6, 2025, there is no public information indicating active exploitation of this vulnerability. However, due to the nature of the flaw, the potential for exploitation by an attacker who has gained user-level access is significant.
Analyst Recommendation
Given the high-impact nature of arbitrary file deletion, this vulnerability presents a critical risk to website availability and integrity. We strongly recommend prioritizing the deployment of the vendor-supplied patch or removing the theme immediately to prevent potential exploitation by a malicious actor.