CVE-2026-28091 is classified as a high-severity vulnerability affecting the ThemeREX Coleo product. This vulnerability allows for local file inclusion due to improper control of the filename used in include or require statements in PHP. With a CVSS score of 8.1, this vulnerability poses significant risks to organizations utilizing the affected software versions.
Risk to organizations includes unauthorized access to sensitive files, which could lead to data breaches and further exploitation of the system. The vulnerability affects Coleo versions from n/a through 1.1.7, and organizations should prioritize immediate patching to mitigate potential damage.
The vulnerability was published on March 5, 2026, and is currently in a deferred status, indicating that the remediation process may still be ongoing. Given the potential for exploitation, organizations should remain vigilant and ensure that all vulnerable systems are patched as soon as updates are available.
Organizations should take this opportunity to review their security policies and practices, ensuring that proper controls are in place to prevent similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Vulnerability Details
This vulnerability allows for PHP local file inclusion in ThemeREX Coleo due to improper control of the filename in PHP include/require statements. The CVSS score of 8.1 indicates a high severity level, with the potential for high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. The affected product is ThemeREX Coleo, specifically versions up to and including 1.1.7.
The vulnerability was disclosed on March 5, 2026. It is classified under CWE-98, which pertains to improper control of filename for include/require statements.
Technical Analysis
The root cause of CVE-2026-28091 stems from a lack of proper validation of user inputs in the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This allows attackers to manipulate the input and include arbitrary files from the server, leading to local file inclusion.
The attack vector is network-based, requiring no user interaction and leveraging the existing permissions of the PHP process, which typically runs with elevated privileges. The attack complexity is rated as high due to the need for the attacker to correctly guess or know the file paths.
If exploited, this vulnerability could lead to a compromise of confidentiality, integrity, and availability, making it critical for organizations to address.
Risk & Impact Analysis
The real-world deployment risk associated with CVE-2026-28091 is significant, particularly for organizations using older versions of ThemeREX Coleo. The potential blast radius includes the exposure of sensitive system files, which could lead to unauthorized access or data breaches.
Organizations should assess their exposure to this vulnerability and consider the urgency of the situation based on the high CVSS score. Given that the vulnerability impacts the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected systems, it is critical to prioritize patching immediately.
Exploitation Status
Signal | Status |
|---|---|
Known Exploit | No |
Public PoC | No |
Actively Exploited | No |
Ransomware Use | No |
Affected Versions
The vulnerability affects all versions of ThemeREX Coleo prior to 1.1.7. Organizations should ensure they are using an updated version to mitigate risks associated with this vulnerability.
Mitigation & Remediation
To address this vulnerability, organizations should apply available patches or updates for ThemeREX Coleo. If an update is not available, consider implementing configuration changes to disable or restrict file inclusion functions within PHP.
Additionally, organizations should perform a thorough review of their security configurations and ensure that proper input validation and sanitization measures are in place for file paths.
Continuous penetration testing can also help identify and address similar vulnerabilities in the future.
Detection Guidance
Organizations should monitor logs for any unauthorized file access attempts and unusual file inclusion patterns. Behavioral anomalies in the application should also be flagged for further investigation.
Network signatures indicating attempts to exploit local file inclusion vulnerabilities should be developed and monitored.
AppSecure Threat Intelligence Insight
The emergence of vulnerabilities like CVE-2026-28091 highlights the ongoing need for organizations to maintain rigorous security practices. This incident underscores the importance of regular software updates and the implementation of secure coding practices.
Security teams should leverage resources and frameworks to ensure they are equipped to handle similar vulnerabilities, as well as invest in penetration testing methodologies to enhance their security posture.
The lessons learned from this vulnerability should drive organizations to adopt a proactive stance towards application security, ensuring that they are prepared for any potential threats.
For further information, organizations can refer to the following resources:
Vulnerability management program design and API penetration testing guide for enhancing their security capabilities.
Disclaimer: This content was generated using AI. While we strive for accuracy, please verify critical information with official sources.
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