CVE-2026-22399 identifies a PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability in the Mikado-Themes Holmes WordPress theme, specifically due to improper control of filenames used in include or require statements. This vulnerability arises when the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input that determines which files are included during PHP execution. Attackers can exploit this flaw by manipulating input parameters to include arbitrary files from the local filesystem, potentially leading to disclosure of sensitive information such as configuration files, password files, or application source code. In some cases, LFI can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code if combined with other vulnerabilities or by including files containing malicious payloads. The affected versions include Holmes theme versions up to 1.7, with no patch currently available as per the provided data. Although no known exploits are reported in the wild, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be considered a significant risk. The absence of a CVSS score requires an assessment based on the nature of the vulnerability, which typically impacts confidentiality and integrity, with moderate to high ease of exploitation due to the common use of PHP include statements in web applications. The vulnerability is particularly critical in WordPress environments where the Holmes theme is deployed, as it can lead to unauthorized access and compromise of the hosting server.

The impact of CVE-2026-22399 on organizations worldwide can be substantial. Successful exploitation allows attackers to read sensitive files on the server, potentially exposing credentials, configuration details, or proprietary information. In worst-case scenarios, attackers may execute arbitrary code, leading to full system compromise, data breaches, or pivoting to other internal systems. This can result in loss of confidentiality, integrity, and availability of affected systems. Organizations using the Holmes theme in their WordPress deployments face increased risk of website defacement, data leakage, or malware injection. The vulnerability can also undermine customer trust and lead to regulatory penalties if sensitive data is exposed. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of Mikado-Themes, the scope of affected systems is significant, especially for websites that have not applied updates or mitigations. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not diminish the urgency for remediation.

To mitigate CVE-2026-22399, organizations should take the following specific actions: 1) Immediately check for updates or patches from Mikado-Themes and apply them as soon as they become available. 2) If patches are not yet released, disable or remove the Holmes theme temporarily to prevent exploitation. 3) Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters that influence file inclusion to prevent manipulation. 4) Configure PHP settings to disable dangerous functions such as allow_url_include and restrict include paths using open_basedir to limit file access scope. 5) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block LFI attempts targeting the theme. 6) Conduct thorough code reviews and penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities in custom themes or plugins. 7) Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests that attempt to exploit file inclusion. 8) Educate development and security teams about secure coding practices related to file handling in PHP. These measures collectively reduce the attack surface and protect against exploitation until official patches are deployed.