CVE-2026-22379 is a security vulnerability identified in the AncoraThemes Netmix WordPress theme, specifically affecting versions up to and including 1.0.10. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename used in PHP include or require statements, which leads to a Local File Inclusion (LFI) flaw. LFI vulnerabilities allow attackers to trick the application into including files from the local filesystem, which can result in sensitive information disclosure, such as configuration files, password files, or application source code. In some cases, LFI can be leveraged to achieve remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. The vulnerability is due to insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input that controls the file path in the include/require statement. Although the description mentions 'PHP Remote File Inclusion,' the technical details clarify it is a Local File Inclusion issue, meaning remote files cannot be directly included but local files on the server can be accessed. No public exploits have been reported yet, but the vulnerability is published and known. The affected product, Netmix, is a WordPress theme by AncoraThemes, which is used globally but primarily in markets with high WordPress adoption. The lack of a CVSS score requires an independent severity assessment. Given the potential for sensitive data exposure and possible server compromise, this vulnerability is considered high severity. The vulnerability requires attackers to manipulate input parameters controlling file inclusion, which may or may not require authentication depending on the theme's implementation and site configuration. The absence of official patches or mitigation links at the time of publication increases the urgency for users to apply workarounds or monitor for updates.

The impact of CVE-2026-22379 can be significant for organizations using the vulnerable Netmix theme on their WordPress sites. Successful exploitation of the Local File Inclusion vulnerability can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive server files, including configuration files, credentials, or source code, which can facilitate further attacks such as privilege escalation or remote code execution. This can compromise the confidentiality and integrity of the affected systems and data. Additionally, attackers may leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code if combined with other vulnerabilities or server misconfigurations, potentially leading to full system compromise. For organizations relying on their websites for business operations, brand reputation, or customer trust, such a compromise can result in financial loss, data breaches, and regulatory penalties. The scope of impact is limited to sites using the vulnerable Netmix theme, but given WordPress's widespread use, the number of potentially affected sites worldwide is non-trivial. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate the threat, as attackers may develop exploits following public disclosure. Organizations with high-value web assets or sensitive data hosted on WordPress sites using this theme are at particular risk.

To mitigate CVE-2026-22379, organizations should take the following specific actions: 1) Immediately check if their WordPress installations use the AncoraThemes Netmix theme version 1.0.10 or earlier and plan to upgrade to a patched version once available. 2) In the absence of an official patch, apply temporary mitigations such as disabling or restricting access to vulnerable functionality that handles file inclusion parameters, for example by using web application firewall (WAF) rules to block suspicious requests attempting to manipulate include parameters. 3) Harden the PHP configuration by disabling dangerous functions like allow_url_include and ensuring open_basedir restrictions are in place to limit file system access. 4) Conduct a thorough audit of web server logs to detect any suspicious attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 5) Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-supplied parameters controlling file paths, if custom code modifications are possible. 6) Monitor official AncoraThemes and WordPress security advisories for updates or patches addressing this vulnerability. 7) Educate web administrators and developers about the risks of insecure file inclusion and best practices for secure coding. 8) Consider isolating vulnerable sites or running them in sandboxed environments until patches are applied. These targeted measures go beyond generic advice by focusing on the specific nature of the vulnerability and the affected product.