CVE-2026-1400 is a vulnerability classified under CWE-434 (Unrestricted Upload of File with Dangerous Type) found in the AI Engine – The Chatbot and AI Framework for WordPress plugin. The flaw exists in the rest_helpers_update_media_metadata function, which lacks proper validation of file types during media metadata updates. Authenticated users with Editor-level or higher permissions can exploit this by first uploading a benign image file, then leveraging the update_media_metadata REST API endpoint to rename the file extension to .php, effectively creating an executable PHP file within the WordPress uploads directory. This enables remote code execution (RCE) on the server hosting the WordPress site. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 3.3.2 of the plugin. The CVSS v3.1 score is 7.2 (high), reflecting network attack vector, low attack complexity, high privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability's nature and ease of exploitation by authenticated users make it a critical risk for WordPress sites using this plugin. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, increasing the urgency for mitigation. This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code, potentially leading to full site takeover, data theft, or service disruption.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk especially for those relying on WordPress sites with the AI Engine plugin installed. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to compromise the confidentiality of sensitive data, alter or delete content (integrity), and disrupt service availability. This can result in data breaches, defacement, or complete site downtime. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and e-commerce are particularly at risk due to the sensitive nature of their data and regulatory requirements like GDPR. The requirement for Editor-level access means insider threats or compromised user accounts can be leveraged to exploit this vulnerability. Additionally, the widespread use of WordPress across Europe increases the attack surface. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the high severity score and ease of exploitation warrant immediate attention to prevent potential targeted attacks.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations to identify the presence of the AI Engine plugin and verify the version in use. Until an official patch is released, they should restrict Editor-level and higher privileges to trusted users only and consider temporarily downgrading user permissions where feasible. Implementing Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with rules to detect and block suspicious file uploads or REST API calls related to media metadata updates can help mitigate exploitation attempts. Monitoring logs for unusual file renaming activities or unexpected PHP files in the uploads directory is critical. Organizations should also enforce strong authentication mechanisms, including multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all users with elevated privileges, to reduce the risk of account compromise. Regular backups and incident response plans should be updated to prepare for potential exploitation. Once a patch is available, prompt application is essential. Additionally, disabling or limiting REST API endpoints related to media metadata updates for non-administrative users can reduce exposure.