CVE-2026-4057: The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the `makeMediaPublic...

Description

The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the `makeMediaPublic()` and `makeMediaPrivate()` functions in all versions up to, and including, 3.3.51. This is due to the functions only checking for `edit_posts` capability without verifying post ownership via `current_user_can('edit_post', $id)`, and the destructive operations executing before the admin-level check in `mediaAccessControl()`. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Contributor-level access and above, to strip all protection metadata (password, access restrictions, private flag) from any media file they do not own, making admin-protected files publicly accessible via their direct URL.

Metrics

CVSS 3.1

4.3/10

CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:L/UI:N/S:U/C:N/I:L/A:N

EPSS Probability

0.37%

29.2th percentile

Probability of exploitation in the next 30 days. Learn more

Weakness Enumeration

CWE-862

References

Timeline

Published: Apr 10, 2026
Last Modified: Jun 17, 2026
Status: Deferred

Frequently Asked Questions

What is CVE-2026-4057?

The Download Manager plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to unauthorized modification of data due to a missing capability check on the `makeMediaPublic()` and `makeMediaPrivate()` functions in all versions up to, and including, 3.3.51. This is due to the functions only checking for `edit_posts` capability without verifying post ownership via `current_user_can('edit_post', $id)`, and the destructive operations executing before the admin-level check in `mediaAccessControl()`. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Contributor-level access and above, to strip all protection metadata (password, access restrictions, private flag) from any media file they do not own, making admin-protected files publicly accessible via their direct URL.

How severe is CVE-2026-4057?

CVE-2026-4057 has a CVSS score of 4.3/10 (MEDIUM severity). The EPSS model estimates a 0.37% probability of exploitation in the next 30 days.

How do I fix CVE-2026-4057?

Check the vendor references and advisories linked above for patched versions and mitigation guidance. You can also run a Strix scan to test if your systems are affected.