CVE-2025-1771 is a critical security vulnerability classified under CWE-98 (Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement) affecting the Traveler WordPress theme developed by ShineTheme. The flaw exists in the 'hotel_alone_load_more_post' function, specifically in the handling of the 'style' parameter, which is vulnerable to Local File Inclusion (LFI). This vulnerability allows unauthenticated remote attackers to manipulate the parameter to include arbitrary files from the server. If an attacker can upload a PHP file or leverage existing files, they can execute arbitrary PHP code on the server, leading to full compromise. The vulnerability affects all versions up to and including 3.1.8 of the theme. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 9.8, reflecting a critical severity with network attack vector, no privileges required, no user interaction, and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. While no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of the vulnerability makes exploitation straightforward and highly impactful. This flaw can be exploited to bypass access controls, steal sensitive data, or execute malicious code, potentially leading to server takeover. The vulnerability highlights a failure to properly sanitize and validate user input used in file inclusion functions, a common and dangerous PHP security issue. No official patches or updates are currently linked, so users must monitor vendor advisories closely. The vulnerability is particularly dangerous in shared hosting environments or where file upload functionality exists, as attackers can upload malicious PHP scripts and include them via the vulnerable parameter.

The impact of CVE-2025-1771 is severe and wide-ranging. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution on the affected server, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code with the privileges of the web server process. This can result in complete server compromise, data theft, defacement, installation of backdoors, or pivoting to other network assets. Confidentiality is at high risk as attackers can read sensitive files, including configuration files containing database credentials or other secrets. Integrity is compromised as attackers can modify files or data. Availability can be affected if attackers disrupt services or deploy ransomware. Since the vulnerability requires no authentication and no user interaction, it can be exploited remotely and automatically, increasing the risk of widespread attacks. Organizations using the Traveler theme in production environments, especially those handling sensitive customer data or financial transactions, face significant operational and reputational risks. The lack of known exploits in the wild currently provides a window for mitigation, but the critical CVSS score suggests attackers will likely develop exploits rapidly.

1. Immediately audit all WordPress installations using the Traveler theme and identify versions up to 3.1.8. 2. Restrict or disable the vulnerable 'hotel_alone_load_more_post' function if possible via custom code or plugin overrides until a patch is released. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on the 'style' parameter to prevent arbitrary file inclusion. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block attempts to exploit LFI vulnerabilities, especially targeting the affected parameter. 5. Disable PHP file uploads or restrict upload directories and file types to prevent uploading malicious PHP scripts. 6. Monitor server logs for suspicious requests attempting to manipulate the 'style' parameter or access unusual files. 7. Backup all data and configurations regularly to enable recovery in case of compromise. 8. Stay updated with ShineTheme vendor announcements for official patches or updates and apply them promptly once available. 9. Consider isolating WordPress instances in containerized or sandboxed environments to limit the blast radius of potential exploitation. 10. Conduct penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities to verify remediation effectiveness.