CVE-2026-1257 is a Local File Inclusion vulnerability classified under CWE-98, found in the 'Administrative Shortcodes' WordPress plugin developed by shazdeh. The vulnerability exists in all versions up to and including 0.3.4, specifically in the handling of the 'slug' attribute of the 'get_template' shortcode. The plugin passes this user-supplied input to the WordPress function get_template_part() without adequate path validation or sanitization, enabling an attacker with Contributor-level or higher privileges to manipulate the file path. This manipulation allows inclusion of arbitrary files from the server, including those uploaded as images or other seemingly safe file types, which can contain malicious PHP code. Once included, this code executes with the privileges of the web server, potentially leading to remote code execution (RCE). The attacker can bypass access controls, access sensitive data, and compromise the integrity and availability of the affected system. The vulnerability requires authentication with at least Contributor privileges but does not require additional user interaction. The CVSS v3.1 score of 7.5 reflects a high severity due to the critical impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability, although the attack complexity is high due to the need for authenticated access and some privilege level. No patches or exploits are currently publicly available, but the risk remains significant given the widespread use of WordPress and the plugin's presence in many environments.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a serious threat to WordPress-based websites, especially those using the Administrative Shortcodes plugin. Successful exploitation can lead to full server compromise, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code, steal sensitive information, manipulate website content, or disrupt services. This can result in data breaches, defacement, loss of customer trust, regulatory penalties under GDPR, and operational downtime. Organizations in sectors such as e-commerce, government, healthcare, and media, which often rely on WordPress for content management, are particularly at risk. The requirement for Contributor-level access means that insider threats or compromised user accounts can be leveraged to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, the ability to upload seemingly safe file types that can be included and executed increases the attack surface. The impact extends beyond the affected website to potentially compromise internal networks if the server is part of a larger infrastructure.

1. Immediately update the Administrative Shortcodes plugin to a patched version once available. If no patch is currently released, consider temporarily disabling the plugin to eliminate the attack vector. 2. Restrict Contributor-level and higher access strictly to trusted users and enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication (MFA). 3. Implement strict file upload controls and validation to prevent uploading of files that could be executed as PHP, including disabling execution permissions in upload directories. 4. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block suspicious requests targeting the 'slug' parameter or attempts to include arbitrary files. 5. Monitor logs for unusual file inclusion attempts or privilege escalations related to the plugin. 6. Conduct regular security audits and vulnerability scans focused on WordPress plugins and user privilege management. 7. Harden the server environment by disabling unnecessary PHP functions and restricting file system permissions to limit the impact of any successful exploitation.