CVE-2025-5014: Arbitrary File Access in Home Villas Theme
Platform
wordpress
Component
homevillas-real-estate
Fixed in
2.8.1
CVE-2025-5014 describes an arbitrary file access vulnerability discovered in the Home Villas | Real Estate WordPress Theme. This flaw allows authenticated attackers, even those with Subscriber-level access, to delete files on the server, potentially leading to remote code execution. The vulnerability impacts versions 0.0.0 through 2.8 of the theme. A patch is expected from the theme developer.
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Impact and Attack Scenarios
The primary impact of CVE-2025-5014 is the ability for an authenticated attacker to delete arbitrary files on the web server. While the vulnerability requires authentication (Subscriber role or higher), this is a relatively low barrier to entry for many WordPress sites. The most critical scenario involves deleting the wp-config.php file, which contains sensitive database credentials and configuration settings. Deletion of this file would effectively disable the WordPress site and potentially allow the attacker to gain full control over the database. Other sensitive files, such as those containing API keys or private keys, could also be targeted. The blast radius extends to any data stored on the server accessible to the web user.
Exploitation Context
CVE-2025-5014 was publicly disclosed on 2025-07-02. No public proof-of-concept (PoC) code has been released at the time of writing, but the vulnerability's nature and ease of exploitation suggest a moderate risk of exploitation. It is not currently listed on the CISA KEV catalog. The vulnerability’s reliance on authentication reduces the immediate risk compared to unauthenticated vulnerabilities, but the potential for remote code execution remains significant.
Threat Intelligence
Exploit Status
EPSS
1.27% (79% percentile)
CISA SSVC
CVSS Vector
What do these metrics mean?
- Attack Vector
- Network — remotely exploitable over the internet. No physical or local access required. Widest attack surface.
- Attack Complexity
- Low — no special conditions required. Attacker can exploit reliably without depending on rare configurations or timing.
- Privileges Required
- Low — any valid user account is sufficient. Basic authenticated access required.
- User Interaction
- None — attack is automatic and silent. Victim does nothing: no click, no file open.
- Scope
- Unchanged — impact is limited to the vulnerable component itself.
- Confidentiality
- High — complete confidentiality loss. Attacker can read all data: credentials, keys, personal data.
- Integrity
- High — attacker can write, modify, or delete any data: databases, config files, or code.
- Availability
- High — complete crash or resource exhaustion. Full denial of service.
Affected Software
Weakness Classification (CWE)
Timeline
- Reserved
- Published
- Modified
- EPSS updated
Mitigation and Workarounds
The primary mitigation for CVE-2025-5014 is to upgrade to a patched version of the Home Villas | Real Estate WordPress Theme once available. Until a patch is released, consider implementing temporary workarounds. A Web Application Firewall (WAF) can be configured to block requests to the wpremcswidgetfile_delete function or to enforce stricter file path validation. Additionally, restrict file permissions on sensitive files like wp-config.php to prevent unauthorized access and modification. After applying any mitigation, verify the fix by attempting to access the vulnerable endpoint with a test account and confirming that file deletion is prevented.
How to fix
Actualice el tema Home Villas | Real Estate WordPress Theme a la última versión disponible. La vulnerabilidad se debe a una validación insuficiente de la ruta del archivo, por lo que la actualización debería corregir el problema. Asegúrese de realizar una copia de seguridad completa del sitio antes de actualizar.
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Frequently asked questions
What is CVE-2025-5014 — Arbitrary File Access in Home Villas Theme?
CVE-2025-5014 is a HIGH severity vulnerability allowing authenticated attackers to delete files on a WordPress server using the Home Villas theme, potentially leading to remote code execution. It affects versions 0.0.0–2.8.
Am I affected by CVE-2025-5014 in Home Villas Theme?
If your WordPress site uses the Home Villas | Real Estate WordPress Theme version 0.0.0 through 2.8, you are potentially affected. Check your theme version and apply the recommended mitigations.
How do I fix CVE-2025-5014 in Home Villas Theme?
Upgrade to a patched version of the Home Villas theme as soon as it becomes available. Until then, implement WAF rules or restrict file permissions as temporary workarounds.
Is CVE-2025-5014 being actively exploited?
While no active exploitation has been confirmed, the vulnerability's nature and ease of exploitation suggest a moderate risk. Monitor your systems for suspicious activity.
Where can I find the official Home Villas advisory for CVE-2025-5014?
Refer to the theme developer's website or WordPress.org plugin page for updates and advisories regarding CVE-2025-5014.
Is your project affected?
Upload your dependency file and we'll tell you instantly if this and other CVEs hit you.