CVE-2026-78971

Deferred Deferred - Pending Action

Command Execution in Halo CMS via Malicious Plugin

Publication date: 2026-09-08

Last updated on: 2026-09-14

Assigner: MITRE

Description

In Halo <= 2.25.4, the plugin management feature allows users to install/update malicious plugins, which could let attackers execute any command with Halo process permissions.

CVSS Scores

EPSS Scores

Probability:
Percentile:

Meta Information

Published

2026-09-08

Last Modified

2026-09-14

Generated

2026-09-29

AI Q&A

2026-09-10

EPSS Evaluated

2026-09-27

NVD

CVE-2026-78971

Affected Vendors & Products

Vendor	Product	Version / Range
halo	halo	to 2.25.4 (inc)

Helpful Resources

Exploitability

CWE

KEV

CWE ID	Description
CWE-94	The product constructs all or part of a code segment using externally-influenced input from an upstream component, but it does not neutralize or incorrectly neutralizes special elements that could modify the syntax or behavior of the intended code segment.

Attack-Flow Graph

Executive Summary

CVE-2026-78971 is a Remote Code Execution (RCE) vulnerability in the Halo CMS plugin system affecting versions 2.25.4 and earlier. It allows authenticated users with plugin-management permissions to upload malicious plugin JAR files. Since Halo lacks sandbox isolation, the malicious code executes with Halo process permissions when the plugin is enabled or updated, enabling attackers to run arbitrary commands or gain full server access.

Detection Guidance

Check for unauthorized or modified plugins in Halo by inspecting installed plugins via the admin dashboard or database. Look for unexpected JAR files in the plugins directory. Monitor Halo process logs for suspicious command executions or network connections.

Impact Analysis

This vulnerability could allow attackers to execute any command with the permissions of the Halo process. This may lead to full server compromise, data theft, unauthorized access to sensitive information, or further network infiltration. Attackers could also install backdoors, escalate privileges, or pivot to other systems within the environment.

Compliance Impact

This vulnerability could lead to data breaches, unauthorized access, or loss of sensitive data, which may violate compliance requirements under GDPR, HIPAA, or other regulations. Organizations using affected Halo versions may face legal penalties, reputational damage, and mandatory breach notifications if exploited.

Mitigation Strategies

Upgrade Halo to a version beyond 2.25.4 if available. Disable plugin installation from untrusted sources. Implement code-signing verification for plugins. Restrict admin access to plugin management. Monitor for unusual activity in Halo processes.

Hi! I’m here to help you understand CVE-2026-78971. Ask me anything about the vulnerability, its impact, or mitigation strategies.

0/70