What the vulnerability does
01Description
The Photo Gallery, Sliders, Proofing and Themes – NextGEN Gallery plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion in all versions up to, and including, 3.59.12 via the 'template' shortcode parameter. This is due to insufficient path validation that allows absolute paths to be provided. This makes it possible for authenticated attackers, with Contributor-level access and above, to include and execute arbitrary PHP files on the server, bypassing web server restrictions like .htaccess. Successful exploitation could lead to information disclosure, code execution in the WordPress context, and potential remote code execution if combined with arbitrary file upload capabilities.
Explanation of Vulnerability in Simple Terms
02Summary
NextGEN Gallery versions up to 3.59.12 contain a code injection vulnerability that allows authenticated users with low privileges to execute arbitrary code on the site. The vulnerability requires only network access and no user interaction. An attacker can read, modify, or delete sensitive data, and disrupt site availability.
What an attacker can do
03Attacker Capabilities
Run arbitrary code on the site, read/modify/delete data, and disrupt availability.
Potential impact on your site
04Site Impact
Any authenticated user can compromise your site's confidentiality, integrity, and availability.
Conditions required to exploit
05Prerequisites
Attacker must have a low-privilege authenticated account on the site.
Key dates
06Disclosure timeline
December 18, 2025
CVE published
April 8, 2026
Record updated
