The vulnerability resides in the handling of file requests within the `mla-stream-image.php` file of the Media Library Assistant plugin for WordPress. This flaw enables attackers to exploit insufficient input validation mechanisms to read arbitrary file contents. Although the vulnerability is classified with a CVSS score of 0, which indicates negligible risk, the ability to read sensitive files such as ai, eps, pdf, and ps on the server could expose proprietary information or confidential data. As the vulnerability does not require authentication, it poses a risk to any website using the affected versions of the plugin. The types of files that can be accessed are typically associated with graphical content, but they can also be used to store sensitive data in some setups. This vulnerability highlights the need for stringent validation and access controls within web applications to ensure server-side files are protected.

To mitigate this vulnerability, site administrators should immediately restrict access to the `mla-stream-image.php` file by modifying `.htaccess` rules or equivalent server configurations to deny all external requests to this file. Additionally, consider limiting the accessible file types and enforcing strict file permissions across the server to prevent unauthorized file access. Regularly monitor and audit file permissions and server configurations to detect any unauthorized changes.