CVE-2026-28015 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the ThemeREX ShiftCV WordPress theme, affecting versions up to 3.0.14. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, allowing an attacker to manipulate the input to include arbitrary local files on the web server. This can lead to disclosure of sensitive files such as configuration files, password files, or other critical data stored on the server. In some cases, LFI can be leveraged to execute arbitrary code if combined with other vulnerabilities or if the attacker can upload malicious files to the server. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the flaw is publicly disclosed and documented in the CVE database. The lack of a CVSS score means severity must be assessed based on the potential impact and exploitability. The vulnerability affects the ShiftCV theme, a product by ThemeREX, commonly used in WordPress sites for personal portfolio or resume presentations. The vulnerability was reserved and published in early 2026, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No official patches or mitigation links are provided in the data, so users must monitor vendor updates or apply manual mitigations.

The primary impact of CVE-2026-28015 is unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information through local file inclusion. Attackers can read configuration files containing database credentials, API keys, or other secrets, potentially leading to further compromise. In some scenarios, LFI can be escalated to remote code execution, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary commands on the server, leading to full system compromise. This can result in data breaches, defacement, service disruption, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for lateral movement within an organization’s network. Organizations relying on the ShiftCV theme for their websites face reputational damage, loss of customer trust, and potential regulatory penalties if sensitive data is exposed. The ease of exploitation without authentication or user interaction increases the risk, especially for publicly accessible websites. The scope is limited to sites using the vulnerable theme, but given WordPress’s widespread use, the number of affected sites could be significant globally.

1. Immediate action should be to update the ShiftCV theme to the latest version once a patch is released by ThemeREX. 2. Until an official patch is available, restrict access to vulnerable PHP files using web server configuration (e.g., .htaccess rules) to prevent direct access to include parameters. 3. Implement web application firewall (WAF) rules to detect and block attempts to exploit LFI patterns, such as directory traversal sequences or suspicious include parameters. 4. Conduct code review and harden the theme’s PHP code by validating and sanitizing all inputs used in include/require statements to allow only expected filenames or paths. 5. Disable PHP functions that are not needed but can be leveraged in LFI exploitation, such as allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen in php.ini. 6. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests targeting include parameters or attempts to access sensitive files. 7. Educate site administrators about the risks and encourage regular backups and security audits. 8. Consider isolating the web server environment or using containerization to limit the impact of potential exploitation.