CVE-2026-5809: wpForo Forum <= 3.0.2 - Authenticated (Subscriber+) Arbitrary File Deletion via 'data[body][fileurl]' Parameter
The wpForo Forum plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Deletion in versions up to and including 3.0.2. This is due to a two-step logic flaw: the topicadd() and topicedit() action handlers accept arbitrary user-supplied data[] arrays from $REQUEST and store them as postmeta without restricting which fields may contain array values. Because 'body' is included in the allowed topic fields list, an attacker can supply data[body][fileurl] with an arbitrary file path (e.g., wp-config.php or an absolute server path). This poisoned fileurl is persisted to the plugin's custom postmeta database table. Subsequently, when the attacker submits wpftcfdelete[]=body on a topicedit request, the addfile() method retrieves the stored postmeta record, extracts the attacker-controlled fileurl, passes it through wpforofixuploaddir() which only rewrites legitimate wpforo upload paths and returns all other paths unchanged, and then calls wpdeletefile() on the unvalidated path. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with subscriber-level access and above, to delete arbitrary files writable by the PHP process on the server, including critical files such as wp-config.
Affected Software
Event History
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the severity of CVE-2026-5809?
CVE-2026-5809 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability due to its potential for arbitrary file deletion.
How do I fix CVE-2026-5809?
To fix CVE-2026-5809, you should update the wpForo Forum plugin to version 3.0.3 or later.
Who is affected by CVE-2026-5809?
CVE-2026-5809 affects all users of the wpForo Forum plugin for WordPress versions up to and including 3.0.2.
What type of vulnerability is CVE-2026-5809?
CVE-2026-5809 is an authenticated arbitrary file deletion vulnerability.
Can CVE-2026-5809 lead to data loss?
Yes, CVE-2026-5809 can lead to significant data loss if exploited, as it allows unauthorized file deletion.