CVE entry · CVE-2026-96656
CVE-2026-96656: Plex Media Server External Control of File Name or Path Vulnerability
Plex Media Server contains an external control of file name or path vulnerability which can allow an admin user to write arbitrary files that may be executed on load. This vulnerability can be chained with CVE-2026-96652, CVE-2026-96654, and CVE-2026-96655.
- Actively exploited: added to CISA’s KEV catalog on October 20, 2026.
- Use by ransomware: not established so far.
- Remediation deadline for US federal agencies: October 23, 2026.
Description from CISA’s KEV catalog.
What to do
- Check whether your estate includes Plex Media Server, including internet-facing devices.
- Apply the vendor’s patch or mitigations (references below). Failing that, isolate the product or stop using it, as CISA requires of US federal agencies.
- An exploited vulnerability has often been used before it was fixed: look for signs of compromise, especially on internet-facing devices.