File Deletion Vulnerability in Custom Fields WordPress Plugin
CVE-2026-16940

10CRITICAL

Key Information:

Vendor

WordPress
Status
Custom Fields
Vendor
CVE Published:
5 August 2026

Badges

👾 Exploit Exists🟡 Public PoC

What is CVE-2026-16940?

The Custom Fields WordPress plugin, prior to version 1.5.1, contains a security flaw that permits unauthenticated users to execute file deletion commands by failing to properly validate user-supplied file paths. This vulnerability can potentially allow attackers to delete critical files, including wp-config.php, leading to significant risks such as unauthorized control over the website. Site administrators are strongly advised to update to the latest version to mitigate this risk.

Affected Version(s)

Custom Fields 0 < 1.5.1

Exploit Proof of Concept (PoC)

PoC code is written by security researchers to demonstrate the vulnerability can be exploited. PoC code is also a key component for weaponization which could lead to ransomware.

CVE-2026-16940 - Proof of Concept

References

https://wpscan.com/vulnerability/a315a6ac-3ffb-4735-92ca-...
exploitvdb-entrytechnical-description

CVSS V3.1

Score:
10
Severity:
CRITICAL
Confidentiality:
None
Integrity:
High
Availability:
None
Attack Vector:
Network
Attack Complexity:
Low
Privileges Required:
None
User Interaction:
None
Scope:
Changed

Timeline

  • 🟡

    Public PoC available

  • 👾

    Exploit known to exist

  • Vulnerability published

  • Vulnerability Reserved

Credit

Mike Gozdiskowski
WPScan
.