CVE-2026-105844: Prototype Pollution Vulnerability in @payloadcms/plugin-import-export
Summary
CVE-2026-105844: Payload: Prototype pollution in Payload Import Export plugin. Affects @payloadcms/plugin-import-export across 2 version ranges.
>= 3.0.0, < 3.88.0
>= 4.0.0-canary.0, < 4.0.0-canary.27
Fixed in 3.88.0 or 4.0.0-canary.27, depending on the release line you run. How to fix ↓
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Background
The @payloadcms/plugin-import-export package is a plugin for the Payload CMS, which facilitates the import and export of data within the content management system. This package is designed to enhance the functionality of Payload by allowing users to easily manage their content data. However, it has been identified that this plugin is susceptible to a critical vulnerability that can be exploited by unauthenticated users, leading to severe security risks.
Vulnerability Detail
The vulnerability arises from prototype pollution, which allows an attacker to manipulate the prototype of an object in JavaScript. This can lead to unintended application behavior, including the potential for remote code execution (RCE). If exploited, an attacker could submit malicious payloads that compromise the integrity and security of the application, making it crucial for users of the plugin to address this issue promptly.
How To Fix
Latest published version: 3.92.0 as of 23 Oct 2026
npm install @payloadcms/plugin-import-export@3.92.0Upgrading to it may include breaking changes; the versions below are the minimum fixed release for this vulnerability.
If you can't move to the latest
The minimum fixed version depends on the release line you run.
-
>= 3.0.0, < 3.88.03.88.0npm install @payloadcms/plugin-import-export@3.88.0 -
>= 4.0.0-canary.0, < 4.0.0-canary.274.0.0-canary.27npm install @payloadcms/plugin-import-export@4.0.0-canary.27
Tip — Not sure which release line you're on? Vulert can find the fix for the version you are using. Scan free →
Workaround
Until the upgrade is completed, it is advisable to disable the Import Export plugin or restrict access to its endpoints to mitigate the risk of exploitation. This can be done by modifying the configuration settings in your application to limit access.
Conclusion
The CVE-2026-105844 vulnerability in the @payloadcms/plugin-import-export package poses a significant risk due to its potential for remote code execution. Users are strongly advised to upgrade to the patched versions to secure their applications. In the meantime, implementing workarounds can help mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability.
See every vulnerability recorded for @payloadcms/plugin-import-export →
FAQ
Prototype pollution is a security vulnerability that allows an attacker to manipulate the prototype of a JavaScript object, potentially leading to unexpected behavior in applications.
If exploited, this vulnerability can allow an attacker to execute arbitrary code on your server, leading to data breaches, unauthorized access, and other severe security incidents.
Versions of the @payloadcms/plugin-import-export package prior to 3.88.0 and 4.0.0-canary.27 are affected by this vulnerability.
You can check if your application is affected by using Vulert, which monitors and alerts for open-source vulnerabilities in real-time. You can access the Vulert playground without signup at Vulert Scanner.
If an immediate upgrade is not possible, disable the Import Export plugin or restrict access to its endpoints to minimize the risk of exploitation.
