CVE-2026-22356 in Jetpack CRM Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 02/20/2026
Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program ('PHP Remote File Inclusion') vulnerability in Automattic Jetpack CRM zero-bs-crm allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Jetpack CRM: from n/a through <= 6.7.0.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 02/20/2026
The CVE-2026-22356 vulnerability represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw within Automattic Jetpack CRM zero-bs-crm plugin, specifically affecting versions through 6.7.0. This vulnerability stems from improper control of filename parameters in include/require statements, creating a pathway for malicious actors to execute arbitrary code on affected systems. The flaw exists in the plugin's handling of user-supplied input that is directly used in PHP include or require directives without adequate sanitization or validation. Such vulnerabilities fall under CWE-98, which specifically addresses improper control of filename for include or require statements, making them particularly dangerous as they allow attackers to load and execute arbitrary PHP files from remote locations or local system directories. The vulnerability operates by exploiting the trust placed in user input within the plugin's code execution flow, where attacker-controlled parameters are passed directly to PHP's include/require functions without proper input validation or sanitization measures.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution, as it enables attackers to perform a range of malicious activities including arbitrary file inclusion, remote code execution, and potential privilege escalation within the affected WordPress environment. When exploited, the vulnerability allows attackers to include malicious PHP files from remote servers, effectively bypassing local security controls and potentially gaining full administrative access to the compromised WordPress installation. This type of vulnerability is particularly concerning in the context of WordPress plugins, as it can lead to complete system compromise and data exfiltration. The attack surface is broad since the vulnerability affects the core functionality of the CRM plugin, which is likely to be used in production environments with sensitive business data. The issue is particularly dangerous because it can be exploited through various attack vectors including direct exploitation via plugin parameters or through other vulnerabilities that may exist in the WordPress ecosystem.
Security practitioners should consider this vulnerability in the context of the MITRE ATT&CK framework, specifically under techniques related to privilege escalation and remote code execution. The vulnerability demonstrates characteristics of T1059.007 for PHP and T1078 for valid accounts, as exploitation typically requires legitimate access to the affected system and can leverage existing user privileges to execute malicious code. Organizations running affected versions of Jetpack CRM zero-bs-crm should immediately implement mitigations including updating to patched versions, implementing web application firewalls, and restricting file inclusion capabilities within PHP configurations. The recommended remediation approach includes disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configurations, implementing proper input validation for all user-supplied parameters, and applying the latest security patches from Automattic. Additionally, network segmentation and monitoring should be implemented to detect potential exploitation attempts, as the vulnerability may be used as a stepping stone for further attacks within compromised networks. The vulnerability highlights the importance of proper input validation and the principle of least privilege in web application security, emphasizing that all user-controllable inputs should be rigorously validated and sanitized before being used in critical system operations.