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Critical Security Flaw Found in Ghost Website Software

A serious security weakness has been found in Ghost, a popular website content management system used by some small businesses. Malicious website themes can let attackers take control of the server, but an update is available to fix this.

17 August 2026

Reference: CVE-2026-29053

1. What is being reported?

Ghost, a tool used to build and manage websites, has a flaw in versions from 0.7.2 up to 6.19.0. Badly designed themes can be used by hackers to run harmful commands on the server hosting the website. This allows attackers to potentially steal data or damage the site. The problem is fixed in version 6.19.1.

2. What this means in plain English

If your website uses Ghost and is not updated, attackers could take over your website’s server. This could lead to stolen information, website downtime, or other damage. Small organisations without strong IT security could be at risk if they run vulnerable versions.

3. Could this affect a small business?

Only organisations using the Ghost content management system on their websites and running versions before 6.19.1 are affected. If you do not use Ghost, this does not apply to you. Many small businesses use other platforms like WordPress, so check your setup.

4. What to do now

  • Check if your website uses Ghost software and identify its version.
  • If using Ghost version 6.19.0 or earlier, update immediately to version 6.19.1 or later.
  • Avoid installing themes from untrusted sources to reduce risk.
  • Ask your IT provider to confirm your website’s security and apply necessary patches.

5. Ask your IT provider

Can you confirm if our website uses Ghost CMS and ensure it is updated to version 6.19.1 or later to fix the recent security vulnerability?

6. Bottom line

Keep your website software up to date to prevent hackers from taking control through known security flaws.

Information based on CISA KEV, NVD, and reputable security reporting.

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