WordPress up to 7.1.1 Page Template Resolution get_page_template path traversal

Summaryinfo

A vulnerability, which was classified as critical, was found in WordPress up to 7.1.1. The impacted element is the function get_page_template of the component Page Template Resolution. Such manipulation leads to path traversal. This vulnerability is documented as CVE-2026-87902. The attack can be executed remotely. Additionally, an exploit exists. You should upgrade the affected component.

Detailsinfo

A vulnerability was found in WordPress up to 7.1.1. It has been rated as critical. Affected by this issue is the function get_page_template of the component Page Template Resolution. The manipulation with an unknown input leads to a path traversal vulnerability. Using CWE to declare the problem leads to CWE-22. The product uses external input to construct a pathname that is intended to identify a file or directory that is located underneath a restricted parent directory, but the product does not properly neutralize special elements within the pathname that can cause the pathname to resolve to a location that is outside of the restricted directory. Impacted is confidentiality, integrity, and availability. CVE summarizes:

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.

The advisory is shared for download at github.com. This vulnerability is handled as CVE-2026-87902 since 09/09/2026. The exploitation is known to be easy. The attack may be launched remotely. No form of authentication is required for exploitation. Technical details as well as a public exploit are known. The MITRE ATT&CK project declares the attack technique as T1006.

The exploit is available at exploit-db.com. It is declared as attacked. This issue was added on 09/25/2026 to the CISA Known Exploited Vulnerabilities Catalog with a due date of 09/28/2026:

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 BO

Upgrading to version 7.1.2 eliminates this vulnerability.

The vulnerability is also documented in the vulnerability database at Exploit-DB (52690). VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.

Productinfo

Type

• Content Management System

Name

• WordPress

Version

• 7.1.0
• 7.1.1

License

• open-source

Website

• Product: https://wordpress.com/

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VulDB is the best source for vulnerability data and more expert information about this specific topic.

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