CVE-2026-28087 in Filmax Plugin
Summary
by MITRE • 03/05/2026
Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP Program ('PHP Remote File Inclusion') vulnerability in ThemeREX Filmax filmax allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Filmax: from n/a through <= 1.1.11.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2026
The CVE-2026-28087 vulnerability represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw that specifically targets the ThemeREX Filmax theme, exposing it to unauthorized code execution through improper handling of file inclusion directives. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper control of filename for include/require statements, which is classified as CWE-98 within the Common Weakness Enumeration framework. The flaw exists in the theme's implementation where user-supplied input is directly incorporated into PHP include or require statements without adequate validation or sanitization, creating an exploitable condition that allows attackers to manipulate the file inclusion process.
The technical exploitation of this vulnerability occurs when an attacker can manipulate parameters that are used in PHP include or require statements within the Filmax theme code. This typically happens when the application accepts user input through GET or POST parameters and directly uses this input to construct file paths for inclusion. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows remote attackers to include local files from the server, potentially enabling them to execute arbitrary PHP code, read sensitive files, or even establish a backdoor on the compromised system. Attackers can leverage this weakness to bypass authentication mechanisms and gain unauthorized access to the web application's functionality.
The operational impact of CVE-2026-28087 is severe as it provides attackers with a pathway for remote code execution and privilege escalation within the affected environment. This vulnerability directly violates the principle of least privilege and can lead to complete compromise of the web server hosting the vulnerable application. The attack surface is expanded due to the widespread use of the Filmax theme, making numerous websites susceptible to exploitation. Organizations running affected versions of the theme face significant risks including data breaches, service disruption, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability also aligns with ATT&CK technique T1505.003 for 'Exploitation for Privilege Escalation' and T1059.007 for 'Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell' when attackers leverage the inclusion capabilities to establish persistent access.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability should focus on immediate remediation through patching the affected theme to version 1.1.12 or later, which contains the necessary security fixes. Administrators should implement input validation and sanitization measures to prevent user-supplied data from being directly used in include/require statements. The implementation of a whitelist approach for file inclusion, where only predefined and trusted files can be included, provides an effective defense mechanism. Additionally, disabling the ability to pass external URLs in include statements and implementing proper access controls can significantly reduce the risk. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls should be deployed to monitor and block suspicious inclusion attempts, while regular security audits and penetration testing can help identify similar vulnerabilities in other components of the web application stack. The vulnerability also emphasizes the importance of following secure coding practices and adhering to the principle of input validation as outlined in OWASP Top Ten and other security standards.