Sources: National Vulnerability Database, CVE.org, CISA KEV, FIRST EPSS
CVE-2026-115483 Overview
The Everest Forms plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Arbitrary File Read in all versions up to, and including, 3.6.3 via the attach_entry_files() function. This is due to the function attaching any entry field value whose meta key matches /signature_/ to the notification email after only a file_exists() check, without validating or restricting the path. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to read the contents of arbitrary files on the server, such as wp-config.php, which can contain sensitive information. Successful exploitation requires a form whose email notification has the “Attach Files” setting enabled and that contains a field with a meta key matching /signature_/ (for example, a text field labelled “Signature”), with the notification routed to an attacker-supplied email address so the exfiltrated file is delivered to the attacker. Note: The Everest Forms Pro add-on is required to exploit this vulnerability, as it provides the signature field and the email file-attachment functionality (file-email-attachments) that the attack relies on.
Critical Impact
Affected Products
- WordPress Everest Forms: see the vendor advisory for the exact affected versions
Discovery Timeline
- 2026-11-10: CVE-2026-115483 published to the National Vulnerability Database by security@wordfence.com
- 2026-11-10: last updated in the NVD database
Technical Details for CVE-2026-115483
Vulnerability Analysis
CVE-2026-115483 is a Path Traversal weakness (CWE-22: Path Traversal) in WordPress Everest Forms. Based on its CVSS vector, the flaw can be reached over the network, needs no login, and needs no user interaction. An attacker can reach files outside the intended folder by tampering with a file path.
With a CVSS base score of 7.5, apply the vendor fix and confirm exposure on internet facing and business critical assets first.
Root Cause
The weakness is classified as CWE-22: Path Traversal. An attacker can reach files outside the intended folder by tampering with a file path.
Attack Vector
Based on the CVSS vector, the flaw can be reached over the network, needs no login, and needs no user interaction. Attack complexity is low complexity.
No exploitation in the wild is confirmed by CISA at the time of the last update. Check the references below for any vendor or researcher proof of concept.
CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:N/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:N/A:N
Detection Methods for CVE-2026-115483
Detection Strategies
- Inventory every instance of WordPress Everest Forms and compare the running version with the affected range above.
- Check external attack surface scans for internet facing instances of the component.
- Run an authenticated vulnerability scan once your scanner ships a check for this CVE.
Monitoring Recommendations
- Forward WordPress Everest Forms application, access and audit logs to your SIEM for retrospective hunting.
- Alert on new processes, configuration changes or outbound connections from the affected service.
- Track the vendor advisory and the CISA KEV catalog for changes in exploitation status.
How to Mitigate CVE-2026-115483
Immediate Actions Required
- Apply the fixed version of WordPress Everest Forms named in the vendor advisory.
- Prioritize internet facing and business critical instances first.
- Rescan after the change to confirm the exposure is closed.
Patch Information
Use the fixed version listed in the vendor advisory for WordPress Everest Forms.
Workarounds
- If patching must wait, restrict network access to the affected service and place it behind authentication or a web application firewall rule.
CWE References
- CWE-22: Path Traversal More CVEs with this weakness
Technical References
- ▸NVD entry
- ▸CVE.org record
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸WordPress plugin source change
- ▸Wordfence Threat Intelligence
This entry is built directly from NVD, CISA KEV and EPSS data. Verify fixed versions in the vendor advisory before you deploy.
Frequently asked questions
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