WordPress WordPress Core Time-of-check Time-of-use (TOCTOU) Race Condition Vulnerability

What happened

WordPress Core is vulnerable to Remote Code Execution in versions 4.7 through 7.1.3. This is due to predictable, web-accessible staging paths used during full-package core upgrades. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to execute code on the server during the upgrade window.

CISA lists it as exploited, added 03 Nov 2026.

NVD description

What to do

• Apply the vendor patch named in this advisory.
  core.trac.wordpress.org
• Apply the vendor patch named in this advisory.
  core.trac.wordpress.org
• Follow the vendor advisory for the fixed release and any interim mitigation.
  wordpress.org
• Apply mitigations in accordance with vendor instructions, ensuring compliance with CISA’s BOD 26-04 Prioritizing Security Updates Based on Risk (see URL in Notes) guidance and CISA’s “Forensics Triage Requirements” (see URL in Notes). Follow applicable BOD 26-04 guidance for cloud services or discontinue use of the product if mitigations are unavailable. Stakeholders are responsible for evaluating each asset's internet exposure and ensuring adherence to BOD 26-04 patching guidelines.
  cisa.gov

CISA’s notes for this entry:

• wordpress.org/news/2026/10/wordpress-7-1-4
• wordfence.com/threat-intel/vulnerabilities/wordpress-core/wordpress-core-470-713-unauthenticated-upgrade-window-staged-installer-remote-code-execution
• BOD 26-04: cisa.gov/news-events/directives/bod-26-04-prioritizing-security-updates-based-risk
• Forensics Triage Requirements: cisa.gov/news-events/directives/bod-26-04-implementation-guidance-prioritizing-security-updates-based-risk
• nvd.nist.gov/vuln/detail/CVE-2026-119977