CVE-2022-2431 - Download Manager Plugin
CVE-2022-2431
The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion in versions up to, and including 3.2.50. This is due to insufficient file type and path validation on the deleteFiles() function found in the ~/Admin/Menu/Packages.php file that triggers upon download post deletion. This makes it possible for contributor level users and above to supply an arbitrary file path via the 'file[files]' parameter when creating a download post and once the user deletes the post the supplied arbitrary file will be deleted. This can be used by attackers to delete the /wp-config.php file which will reset the installation and make it possible for an attacker to achieve remote code execution on the server.
CVE-2022-2431
HIGH
CVSS 8.1
Published 2022-09-06
Updated 2025-03-21
AI Risk Critical (100/100)
Active Exploit: Likely
Published Exploit: Public exploit references found
Priority: P1 Immediate
Severity Band
HIGH
CVSS Vector
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:H
Affected Components
1
Reference Links
3
AI Risk Engine
Critical (100/100)
Exploitability
High
Active Exploitation
Likely
Published Exploit Status
Public exploit references found
AI Context
Machine-generated threat intelligence
AI
Updated 6 days ago
AI enriched 6 days ago (2026-04-09 10:27 UTC)
Technical Summary
The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary file deletion in versions up to, and including 3.2.50. This is due to insufficient file type and path validation on the deleteFiles() function found in the ~/Admin/Menu/Packages.php file that triggers upon download post deletion. This makes it possible for contributor level users and above to supply an arbitrary file path via the 'file[files]' parameter when creating a download post and once the user deletes the post the supplied arbitrary file…
Potential Impact
Severity is HIGH (CVSS 8.1). Depending on deployment context, affected components may be exposed to unauthorized actions or data integrity risk.
Exploitability Assessment
Exploitability is assessed as High based on published exploit references, remote code execution potential.
Primary risk drivers: published exploit references, remote code execution potential
Mitigation Recommendations
Validate affected product versions, prioritize patching, and monitor references for vendor remediation guidance. If immediate patching is not possible, apply compensating controls and limit exposure of vulnerable surfaces.
Detection & Monitoring
Track authentication anomalies, unexpected file writes, and suspicious plugin API activity around affected components.
Business Impact Lens
Prioritize remediation where affected components process customer data, admin sessions, or Internet-exposed workflows.