CVE-2026-16482
Received Received - Intake

Time-Based Blind SQL Injection in rtMedia WordPress Plugin

Publication date: 2026-09-12

Last updated on: 2026-09-12

Assigner: Wordfence

Description
The rtMedia for WordPress, BuddyPress and bbPress plugin for WordPress is vulnerable to time-based blind SQL Injection via the 'compare' parameter in all versions up to, and including, 4.7.11 due to insufficient escaping on the user supplied parameter and lack of sufficient preparation on the existing SQL query. This makes it possible for unauthenticated attackers to append additional SQL queries into already existing queries that can be used to extract sensitive information from the database. This is exploitable on any public page containing an rtMedia shortcode (e.g., [rtmedia_gallery]) when the rtmedia_shortcode GET parameter is set, because RTMediaQuery::query() merges $_REQUEST into the internal query while only validating top-level array keys, allowing the nested 'compare' subvalue to reach the vulnerable sink without authentication.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
Percentile:

Meta Information

Published
2026-09-12
Last Modified
2026-09-12
Generated
2026-09-12
AI Q&A
2026-09-12
EPSS Evaluated
N/A
NVD
CVE-2026-16482
EUVD
EUVD-2026-76828

Affected Vendors & Products

Showing 1 associated CPE
Vendor Product Version / Range
rtmedia rtmedia to 4.7.11 (inc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE
CWE Icon
KEV
KEV Icon
CWE ID Description
CWE-89 The product constructs all or part of an SQL command using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the intended SQL command when it is sent to a downstream component. Without sufficient removal or quoting of SQL syntax in user-controllable inputs, the generated SQL query can cause those inputs to be interpreted as SQL instead of ordinary user data.

Attack-Flow Graph

AI Quick Actions

Instant insights powered by AI
Executive Summary

This vulnerability is a time-based blind SQL Injection in the rtMedia plugin for WordPress. It occurs due to insufficient escaping of the 'compare' parameter and lack of proper SQL query preparation. Unauthenticated attackers can inject malicious SQL queries to extract sensitive database information. The flaw is exploitable on any public page with an rtMedia shortcode when the rtmedia_shortcode GET parameter is set.

Detection Guidance

To detect this vulnerability, inspect WordPress sites using the rtMedia plugin for versions up to 4.7.11. Check server logs for unusual SQL query patterns or requests containing the 'compare' parameter in rtmedia_shortcode GET requests. Use tools like WP-CLI to list installed plugins and verify versions.

Impact Analysis

An attacker could exploit this to steal sensitive data from your WordPress database, such as user credentials, personal information, or other confidential data. Since no authentication is required, any public-facing site using the vulnerable plugin version is at risk of data breaches or further attacks.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to unauthorized access to personal data, violating GDPR and HIPAA requirements for data protection and security. Organizations may face legal penalties, fines, or reputational damage if exploited, as it compromises the confidentiality of sensitive information.

Mitigation Strategies

Immediately update the rtMedia plugin to the latest version. If an update is unavailable, disable the plugin temporarily. Implement a web application firewall to block malicious requests targeting the 'compare' parameter. Review database access logs for signs of exploitation.

Chat Assistant

Ask questions about this CVE
Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-16482. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.
0/70

EPSS Chart