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CVE-2023-5816: The Code Explorer plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary external file reading in all versions up to,

28
Routine
MEDIUM 4.9UPGRADE

CVE-2023-5816 is a medium-severity flaw (CVSS 4.9) affecting code explorer. Below: why it ranks where it does, which versions are affected, what to do, and the exact commands.

The Code Explorer plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary external file reading in all versions up to, and including, 1.4.5. This is due to the fact that the plugin does not restrict accessing files to those outside of the WordPress instance, though the intention of the plugin is to only access WordPress related files. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with administrator-level access, to read files outside of the WordPre

Why this priority

  • No elevated risk signals yet

A fixed release or distro patch exists.

Risk facts

CVSS score4.9 (Medium)
Attack vectorNetwork (remote)
Attack complexityLow
Privileges neededHigh
User interactionNone
EPSS exploit chance0.5% (top 56%)
CISA exploited listNo
WeaknessCWE-73
Published2024-10-30
Last modified2026-06-17
Publisher (CNA): Wordfence · Vendor: bowo

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Last updated 2026-06-17 · Sources: CVE Program, NVD, CISA KEV, EPSS and vendor advisories · How we score

Am I affected?

Timeline

bowo code explorer UPGRADE
Affected: <= 1.4.5
Fixed in: newer than 1.4.5
Safe to downgrade to: no unaffected older release
1. Check installed version
apt-cache policy code-explorer || rpm -q code-explorer || code-explorer --version
2. UPGRADE to newer than 1.4.5 (Debian / Ubuntu)
sudo apt update && sudo apt install --only-upgrade code-explorer
2. UPGRADE (RHEL / Amazon Linux / Fedora)
sudo dnf upgrade code-explorer
Note
Distros often backport fixes without changing the version number. Confirm with the distro advisory or changelog.
Verify at the official source NVD · CVE Program · Report a problem with this page
Scores and fixes here are computed automatically from those and other public sources. Confirm with the vendor advisory before changing production systems.

Quick answers

How do I fix CVE-2023-5816?

code explorer: upgrade to newer than 1.4.5. Exact commands for each OS are on this page.

Is CVE-2023-5816 being exploited?

CVE-2023-5816 is not on the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities list at the time of the last update. Check again, as this can change.

What does CVE-2023-5816 affect?

CVE-2023-5816 affects code explorer. Severity is medium (CVSS 4.9). The Code Explorer plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to arbitrary external file reading in all versions up to, and including, 1.4.5. This is due to the fact that the plugin does not restrict accessing files to those outside of the WordPress

How urgent is CVE-2023-5816?

Priority 28/100. No elevated risk signals yet.

Software pages

WordPress vulnerabilities

References

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