Backup Migration - Arbitrary File Read (CVE-2023-6266)

CVE-2023-6266 is a vulnerability in the Backup Migration plugin for WordPress that allows unauthenticated attackers to download backup files due to insufficient path and file validation. Exploiting this flaw could expose sensitive data such as user passwords, personally identifiable information (PII), and database credentials, potentially leading to further compromise of the affected WordPress site.

CrowdSec has been tracking this vulnerability and its exploits since 7th of January 2026.

Insights from the CrowdSec network reveal that the attackers trying to exploit CVE-2023-6266 are composed of a fairly even mix of opportunistic and targeted actors. Some attackers employ preliminary reconnaissance, while others use indiscriminate scanning. CrowdSec data also reveals a clear uptick in attacks involving CVE-2023-6266 over the past week. Activity is above the usual baseline, suggesting growing attention from attackers. This may reflect rising awareness, recent exploit releases, or expanded targeting efforts.

Attackers exploit this vulnerability by sending requests with the backup-migration=BMI_BACKUP and a path traversal payload in the backup-id parameter, typically targeting URLs like /?backup-migration=BMI_BACKUP&backup-id=../. This allows unauthenticated users to download sensitive backup files from vulnerable WordPress sites.