CVE-2025-13641 is a critical path traversal vulnerability (CWE-22) affecting the NextGEN Gallery plugin for WordPress, specifically versions up to and including 3.59.12. The vulnerability arises from improper validation of the 'template' shortcode parameter, which accepts absolute file paths without sufficient restriction. Authenticated users with Contributor-level permissions or higher can exploit this flaw to perform local file inclusion (LFI), allowing them to include and execute arbitrary PHP files on the server. This bypasses typical web server restrictions such as .htaccess rules designed to prevent unauthorized file execution. The attack vector requires network access and authentication but no additional user interaction. Successful exploitation can lead to severe consequences including disclosure of sensitive information, execution of arbitrary code within the WordPress environment, and potentially full remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities like arbitrary file upload. The vulnerability has a CVSS 3.1 base score of 8.8, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability with low attack complexity. Although no public exploits are known at this time, the widespread deployment of NextGEN Gallery and the common use of Contributor-level accounts in WordPress installations make this a significant threat. The lack of available patches at the time of disclosure necessitates immediate mitigation efforts by administrators.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-13641 can be substantial. Many European companies, government agencies, and educational institutions rely on WordPress for their web presence, often using popular plugins like NextGEN Gallery for media management. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, defacement of websites, or full server compromise. This is particularly critical for sectors handling personal data under GDPR, as breaches could result in regulatory penalties and reputational damage. The ability for relatively low-privileged authenticated users to escalate privileges and execute code increases insider threat risks and the potential for external attackers to leverage compromised accounts. Additionally, the bypass of .htaccess restrictions undermines common defense-in-depth strategies. The threat is amplified in environments where patch management is slow or where Contributor-level accounts are widely assigned. The potential for chained attacks involving arbitrary file uploads further raises the risk of persistent and stealthy intrusions.

European organizations should immediately audit their WordPress installations for the presence of the NextGEN Gallery plugin and verify the version in use. Until an official patch is released, administrators should consider disabling or uninstalling the plugin to eliminate the attack surface. Restrict Contributor-level user permissions where possible, limiting the number of users with such access. Implement strict file system permissions to prevent unauthorized PHP file uploads and execution. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block attempts to exploit the 'template' shortcode parameter with path traversal patterns. Monitor logs for suspicious activity related to shortcode usage and file inclusion attempts. Regularly update WordPress core and plugins to the latest versions once patches become available. Additionally, consider isolating WordPress environments and using security plugins that enforce input validation and restrict shortcode parameters. Conduct user training to minimize the risk of credential compromise that could enable exploitation.