Executive brief
Movable Type, a popular content management system (CMS), contains a critical security vulnerability in its core framework. An attacker can use this flaw to run unauthorized database commands, which could lead to the theft of sensitive information, modification of website content, or full administrative takeover. Organizations using this software should update to the latest version immediately or restrict access to the administrative console and Data API.
Technical details
An SQL injection vulnerability exists in the Listing Framework of Movable Type, which is utilized by both the Admin Panel (mt.cgi) and the Data API (mt-data-api.cgi). The flaw resides in the request processing logic, where insufficient sanitization of input allows a remote, unauthenticated attacker to inject and execute arbitrary SQL commands. This can lead to unauthorized data retrieval, modification, or deletion within the backend database. The vulnerability affects a wide range of versions, including legacy end-of-life releases. Patches are available in versions 9.1.1, 9.0.7, 8.8.3, and 8.0.10. Temporary mitigations include disabling the Data API or restricting access to administrative scripts via IP whitelisting.
Affected products
- Six Apart Ltd. Movable Type 9.1.0 and earlier, 9.0.6 and earlier, 8.8.2 and earlier, 8.0.9 and earlier, 5.1 to 8.4.4
- Six Apart Ltd. Movable Type Advanced 9.1.0 and earlier, 9.0.6 and earlier, 8.8.2 and earlier, 8.0.9 and earlier, 5.1 to 8.4.4
- Six Apart Ltd. Movable Type Premium 9.1.0 and earlier, 9.0.6 and earlier, 2.14 and earlier, 1.0 to 1.68
- Six Apart Ltd. Movable Type Premium Advanced Edition 9.1.0 and earlier, 9.0.6 and earlier, 2.14 and earlier
Timeline
- 2026-04-08: disclosed
- 2026-04-08: patched
- 2026-04-08: advisory