Key points
- The flaw is tracked as CVE-2026-62077 and affects Avala plugin versions up to 1.1.4.
- The National Vulnerability Database rates the security issue as critical with a CVSS score of 9.8.
- The weakness involves unauthenticated PHP object injection, which can lead to remote code execution.
The short version
- A severe security flaw exists in the Avala plugin for WordPress, specifically in versions 1.1.4 and earlier.
- Attackers can exploit this issue without needing any login credentials or user permissions on the site.
- The vulnerability is classified as critical by the National Vulnerability Database due to its high impact.
The details
The National Vulnerability Database has recorded a new critical security issue identified as CVE-2026-62077. This vulnerability affects the Avala plugin developed by BoldThemes, impacting all versions up to and including 1.1.4. The flaw allows for unauthenticated PHP object injection, a serious weakness that can be exploited by remote attackers. According to the NVD record, the issue carries a CVSS score of 9.8, placing it in the highest severity category. This rating reflects the ease with which an attacker can exploit the flaw and the significant impact on system integrity.
The specific weakness is categorised under CWE-502, which relates to deserialization of untrusted data. In practical terms, this means that an attacker can send malicious data to the plugin, which then processes it as legitimate objects. Because the injection is unauthenticated, the attacker does not need to guess passwords or steal session cookies. They can target any website using the affected plugin versions directly from the internet. This lack of authentication requirements significantly increases the risk of automated attacks.
The context
PHP object injection is a common vector for remote code execution in web applications. When a plugin fails to properly validate or sanitise incoming data, it may inadvertently execute malicious commands. The Avala plugin, being a popular tool for WordPress users, has a large attack surface. Websites running versions up to 1.1.4 are exposed to this risk until a patch is available. The critical nature of the CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability allows for complete compromise of the affected server.
For organisations and individuals using WordPress, this highlights the importance of monitoring plugin updates. The BoldThemes product line is widely used, meaning many sites may be vulnerable without immediate knowledge. The NVD record provides the technical details necessary for security teams to identify affected installations. Without a confirmed fix mentioned in the current records, users must rely on mitigation strategies such as restricting access or removing the plugin.
Defender's checklist
Security teams should audit their WordPress installations to identify any use of the Avala plugin. They must verify the version number against the affected range of up to 1.1.4. Web application firewalls can be configured to block suspicious requests that attempt object injection. Monitoring logs for unusual PHP execution patterns can help detect exploitation attempts. Regular updates to all plugins remain the primary defence against such vulnerabilities.
Background: Remote code execution vulnerabilities
Remote code execution vulnerabilities let attackers run arbitrary commands on a target system remotely. They exploit flaws in how software processes untrusted input. Prevention requires strict input validation, least privilege access, and regular patching. These flaws remain dangerous because they grant immediate control over the affected machine.
Read the full guide: Remote Code Execution Vulnerabilities: How They Work and How to Stop Them
What to do and how to stay safe: CVE-2026-62077
- Identify if your WordPress site uses the Avala plugin and check if the version is 1.1.4 or lower.
- Restrict administrative access to trusted IP addresses to reduce the attack surface for unauthenticated exploits.
- Monitor server logs for unusual PHP execution or deserialization attempts that could indicate exploitation.
- Wait for an official update from BoldThemes before re-enabling the plugin if you choose to remove it temporarily.
Step-by-step guide: Unpatched Software: Why Missing Updates Create Hidden Entry Points
General security guidance from the Cipher Insider newsroom. It is not confirmed advice from the organisations named in this story.
Frequently asked questions
What is CVE-2026-62077?
It is a critical vulnerability in the Avala plugin that allows unauthenticated PHP object injection.
Which versions of the Avala plugin are affected?
All versions up to and including 1.1.4 are affected by this security flaw.
How severe is this vulnerability?
The National Vulnerability Database rates it as critical with a CVSS score of 9.8.
