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CVE-2026-120518 – Arbitrary File Deletion – BuddyPress XProfile Custom Image Field WordPress Plugin

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Summary

CVE-2026-120518 is an arbitrary file deletion (path traversal, CWE-22) vulnerability in the BuddyPress XProfile Custom Image Field WordPress plugin, affecting versions up to and including 3.1.0. It is rated critical (CVSS 9.1). An unauthenticated remote attacker can delete files on the server, such as wp-config.php, which can lead to remote code execution.

Technical details

  • Root cause: the plugin calls unlink() on a file path built from visitor-supplied signup metadata, with no path resolution or containment checks.
  • Trigger conditions: the attacker submits crafted data during user registration. No authentication or user interaction is required.
  • Attack vector: network, over HTTP(S) to the WordPress site’s registration flow.
  • Impact: deletion of arbitrary files writable by the web server process. Deleting critical files such as wp-config.php can enable remote code execution, per the CVE record.

Affected software

  • BuddyPress XProfile Custom Image Field plugin: all versions from 0 through 3.1.0

Severity

  • CVSS v3.1 base score 9.1 (Critical)
  • Vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:H/A:H

Mitigation and recommended actions

  • Immediate: the CVE record lists no fixed version. Check the plugin’s WordPress.org page for an updated release newer than 3.1.0 and upgrade if one is available.
  • If no patch is available: deactivate and remove the plugin, or disable public user registration until a fix is released.
  • Keep current backups of site files, including wp-config.php, and review the site for unexpected file deletions or signs of reinstallation.

References

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