CVE-2026-87902 WordPress Core Remote File Inclusion Vulnerability
WordPress Core contains a remote file inclusion vulnerability which could allow an unauthenticated attacker to make page-template resolution include a chosen readable local `.php` file outside the active theme directories, leading to remote code execution.
From the CISA KEV catalogue version 2026.11.06, with Cybergen analysis. Updated 6 Nov 2026.
Should You Worry?
- CISA confirmed exploitation in the wild and added it to the Known Exploited Vulnerabilities catalogue on 25 Sep 2026.
- Rated High severity (CVSS 8.1, scored by CISA).
- It has been in the catalogue for 42 days. Systems still unpatched now have almost certainly been scanned for it.
What It Is
An unauthenticated attacker can make `get_page_template()` page-template resolution include a chosen readable local `.php` file outside the active theme directories. If relevant pre-conditions for both the server and the active theme are met, this can lead to RCE.
Affected Versions
| Product | Versions |
|---|---|
| WordPress WordPress | before 7.1.2 |
From the public CVE record, as supplied by the vendor. Always confirm against the vendor advisory.
What To Do Now
- 1
Find it
Search your asset inventory and external attack surface for WordPress Core. Include cloud images, appliances and anything a supplier runs for you.
Attack Surface Management - 2
Fix it
Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
Vulnerability Management - 3
Hunt for compromise
If an affected system was reachable before you patched, assume it may have been hit. Check logs, new accounts, web shells and outbound connections from the date of exposure.
Incident Response - 4
Prove it is fixed
Rescan or test the system after patching. Upgrades that fail silently and forgotten secondary instances are common.
Penetration Testing
The Compliance Clock
General guidance, not legal advice. Your obligations depend on your sector, scope and jurisdiction.
Not Sure If You Are Exposed?
Our attack surface and vulnerability teams can check your internet-facing estate for CVE-2026-87902 and every other exploited flaw on the list.