CVE-2025-12497 is a Local File Inclusion vulnerability classified under CWE-98, found in the Premium Portfolio Features for Phlox theme plugin for WordPress, affecting all versions up to 2.3.10. The vulnerability arises from improper validation and control of the 'args[extra_template_path]' parameter, which is used in PHP include or require statements without sufficient sanitization. This flaw enables unauthenticated attackers to specify arbitrary file paths, including remote or local PHP files, which the server then includes and executes. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data leakage, or bypassing of access controls. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, but the attack complexity is rated high, possibly due to the need to upload or otherwise place malicious PHP files on the server. The CVSS v3.1 score of 8.1 reflects the high confidentiality, integrity, and availability impacts. No official patches or updates are currently linked, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild as of the publication date. The vulnerability was reserved on 2025-10-29 and published on 2025-11-05 by Wordfence. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of the Phlox theme, this vulnerability presents a significant risk to websites using this plugin without mitigation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-12497 can be severe. Many businesses, government agencies, and institutions in Europe rely on WordPress for their web presence, and the Phlox theme with its Premium Portfolio Features is popular among creative agencies, portfolios, and corporate sites. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized code execution, allowing attackers to deploy backdoors, steal sensitive customer or internal data, deface websites, or disrupt services. This could result in reputational damage, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations due to data breaches), and financial losses. The ability to bypass access controls and execute arbitrary PHP code elevates the risk of lateral movement within networks if the affected server is connected to internal systems. The lack of authentication requirement increases the threat surface, making it easier for remote attackers to exploit the vulnerability. Given the high CVSS score and potential for widespread impact, European organizations should consider this a critical security issue.

1. Immediate mitigation involves disabling or removing the Premium Portfolio Features for Phlox theme plugin until a patch is available. 2. If disabling is not feasible, restrict access to the vulnerable parameter by implementing Web Application Firewall (WAF) rules that block requests containing suspicious 'args[extra_template_path]' parameters or attempts to include files. 3. Harden file upload mechanisms to prevent attackers from uploading malicious PHP files that could be included. 4. Employ strict input validation and sanitization on all user-controllable parameters, especially those used in include or require statements. 5. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests targeting the vulnerable parameter and signs of file inclusion attempts. 6. Keep WordPress core, themes, and plugins updated and subscribe to vendor security advisories for timely patch releases. 7. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focusing on file inclusion vulnerabilities. 8. Implement least privilege principles on web server file permissions to limit the impact of any code execution. 9. Use security plugins that can detect and block LFI attempts. 10. Prepare incident response plans to quickly address any exploitation attempts.