CVE-2026-28089 in Daiquiri 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 Daiquiri daiquiri allows PHP Local File Inclusion.This issue affects Daiquiri: from n/a through <= 1.2.4.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/07/2026
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2026-28089 represents a critical PHP Remote File Inclusion flaw within the ThemeREX Daiquiri theme, specifically affecting versions through 1.2.4. This vulnerability falls under the broader category of improper control of filename for include/require statements, which constitutes a fundamental security weakness in PHP applications. The flaw allows attackers to manipulate file inclusion mechanisms and potentially execute arbitrary code on the target system. The vulnerability is classified under CWE-98 as "Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement" and aligns with ATT&CK technique T1190 "Exploit Public-Facing Application" as it represents an attack vector through web applications.
The technical implementation of this vulnerability stems from inadequate input validation and sanitization within the theme's file inclusion logic. When the Daiquiri theme processes user-supplied parameters that are directly used in include or require statements without proper sanitization, attackers can inject malicious file paths. This creates an opportunity for local file inclusion attacks where an attacker can specify local file paths that are then included by the PHP interpreter. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it allows for arbitrary code execution, potentially enabling attackers to access sensitive system files, execute malicious scripts, or escalate privileges within the compromised environment.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple code execution to encompass full system compromise potential. Attackers can leverage this flaw to access configuration files, database credentials, user information, and other sensitive data stored on the server. The vulnerability's exploitation can lead to complete system takeover, data exfiltration, and persistent backdoor installation. Organizations running affected versions of the Daiquiri theme face significant risk of unauthorized access, data breaches, and potential regulatory compliance violations. The vulnerability affects not just the specific theme but also impacts the broader WordPress ecosystem, as the theme is commonly used in WordPress installations.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2026-28089 should include immediate version updates to the latest available release of the Daiquiri theme, which addresses the improper file inclusion handling. Organizations should implement input validation mechanisms that sanitize all user-supplied data before processing, particularly parameters used in file inclusion operations. Security configurations should include disabling remote file inclusion features in PHP settings and implementing proper file access controls. Network-level protections such as web application firewalls can help detect and block malicious inclusion attempts. Additionally, regular security audits, code reviews focusing on file inclusion patterns, and vulnerability scanning should be conducted to identify similar weaknesses. The remediation process must also include monitoring for exploitation attempts and implementing proper logging to track file inclusion activities. Organizations should consider implementing the principle of least privilege for web application files and regularly update their security monitoring tools to detect potential exploitation attempts. The vulnerability demonstrates the critical importance of proper input validation and secure coding practices in preventing remote code execution through file inclusion mechanisms.