CVE-2025-1481: shortcode cleaner lite vulnerability

What is known

The Shortcode Cleaner Lite plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized access of data due to a missing capability check on the download_backup() function in all versions up to, and including, 1.0.9. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Subscriber-level access and above, to export arbitrary options.

Business impact

Successful exploitation of CVE-2025-1481, a medium vulnerability (CVSS 6.5) affecting shortcode cleaner lite, may affect the confidentiality, integrity or availability of the vulnerable environment. The exact impact depends on the installed version, exposed interfaces and deployment configuration.

Recommended administrator action

Confirm whether shortcode cleaner lite is present and compare installed versions with the vendor advisory and NVD record. Apply the vendor patch or documented mitigation; until remediation is complete, reduce exposure of affected interfaces, review relevant logs and monitor for indicators of exploitation. DataHouse can support version verification, managed patching, network exposure reduction, log review and backup validation for dedicated, cloud and colocated environments.

Sources

• NVD
• Reference
• Reference
• Reference