Rank Math SEO: Code execution
An Administrator can use the settings import feature to upload a PHP file because file types are not adequately restricted. The uploaded file can execute server-side code, crossing boundaries such as configurations where administrators are not meant to install executable code. The export does not identify the upload path or import action. Affected versions: < 1.0.280. The authoritative export identifies 1.0.280 as fixed for this CVE.
- Component
- Rank Math SEO
- Plugin slug
rank-math-seo- Affected
- < 1.0.280
- Safe version
1.0.280- Published
- Oct 10, 2026
This CVE was published Oct 10, 2026 and is one of 4 known issues for this plugin.
Update, patch or deactivate.
Update to 1.0.280 or a later supported release. Application-level remediation: Accept only the documented settings format, parse it as data, and never place import files in an executable public location.
A safe version is available, so updating to that version or later is the preferred remediation. If an immediate update is not practical, consider a targeted application patch or temporarily restricting the affected functionality.
Deactivate only when warranted by your risk profile, or when advised by your hosting provider in the limited circumstances where the vulnerability cannot otherwise be mitigated. If you’re unsure which action is appropriate, contact Fused or your hosting provider for guidance.
Technical description
The Rank Math SEO WordPress plugin before 1.0.280 does not correctly validate the type of a file uploaded through its settings import feature, allowing users with administrator-level access to upload a PHP file and achieve remote code execution.
CVE / CNA vector: CVSS:3.1/AV:N/AC:L/PR:H/UI:N/S:U/C:H/I:H/A:H