CVE-2026-27988 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the ThemeREX Equadio WordPress theme, specifically in versions up to and including 1.1.3. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the filename input to include arbitrary files from the server's filesystem. By exploiting this, an attacker can read sensitive files such as configuration files, password stores, or other critical data, and in some cases, execute arbitrary PHP code if the included files contain executable code or if the attacker can upload malicious files elsewhere on the server. The vulnerability is classified as a PHP Remote File Inclusion type but is effectively a Local File Inclusion because it involves including files present on the local server rather than remote URLs. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits have been reported. The vulnerability affects all Equadio theme installations up to version 1.1.3, which is used primarily in WordPress environments. The lack of patch links indicates that a fix may not yet be available, increasing the urgency for users to apply workarounds or monitor for updates. The vulnerability was published on March 5, 2026, with the initial reservation date on February 25, 2026. The vulnerability's exploitation requires no authentication or user interaction, making it easier for attackers to leverage once discovered. The absence of known exploits suggests it may be newly disclosed or under limited awareness.

The impact of CVE-2026-27988 is significant for organizations using the ThemeREX Equadio theme on WordPress sites. Successful exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information such as database credentials, configuration files, or user data, compromising confidentiality. It may also allow attackers to execute arbitrary code on the server, leading to full system compromise, data tampering, or persistent backdoors, thus affecting integrity and availability. This can result in website defacement, data breaches, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within an organization's network. Given WordPress's widespread use globally, many small to medium businesses and content-driven sites could be vulnerable, especially those that do not regularly update themes or apply security best practices. The lack of authentication or user interaction requirements increases the risk of automated exploitation attempts by attackers scanning for vulnerable sites. The absence of a patch at the time of disclosure means organizations must rely on mitigations to reduce risk until an official fix is released.

1. Immediately audit all WordPress installations to identify if the ThemeREX Equadio theme version 1.1.3 or earlier is in use. 2. Disable or remove the Equadio theme if it is not actively used or replace it with a secure alternative. 3. If the theme is essential, implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block suspicious requests attempting to manipulate include/require parameters. 4. Restrict PHP file inclusion paths by configuring open_basedir and disable allow_url_include in PHP settings to prevent inclusion of unauthorized files. 5. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests targeting include parameters or attempts to access sensitive files. 6. Keep WordPress core, plugins, and themes updated regularly and subscribe to vendor security advisories for patch releases. 7. Employ principle of least privilege on web server file permissions to limit access to sensitive files. 8. Consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) solutions that can detect and block LFI attempts in real time. 9. Prepare incident response plans to quickly address potential exploitation events. 10. Once a patch is released by ThemeREX, prioritize testing and deployment to affected environments.