CVE-2025-32657 identifies a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically within the RadiusTheme Testimonial Slider And Showcase Pro WordPress plugin (versions up to 2.1.7). This vulnerability enables PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI), where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements to load unintended files from the server. The root cause is insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input controlling the file path, allowing attackers to traverse directories and include arbitrary files. Successful exploitation can lead to disclosure of sensitive files, execution of arbitrary PHP code, and potentially full system compromise. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting high severity with network attack vector (AV:N), high attack complexity (AC:H), low privileges required (PR:L), no user interaction (UI:N), unchanged scope (S:U), and high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability (C:H/I:H/A:H). Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability's nature makes it a prime target for attackers seeking to leverage WordPress plugin weaknesses. The plugin is commonly used in WordPress sites to display testimonials and showcases, making it a valuable target for attackers aiming to compromise websites for data theft, defacement, or pivoting into internal networks.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses significant risks including unauthorized access to sensitive data, website defacement, and potential full server compromise. Given the widespread use of WordPress and the popularity of RadiusTheme plugins in Europe, exploitation could lead to breaches of customer data, intellectual property theft, and disruption of online services. Organizations in sectors such as e-commerce, media, and professional services that rely heavily on WordPress for their web presence are particularly vulnerable. The ability to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely can also facilitate lateral movement within corporate networks, increasing the risk of broader cyberattacks. Additionally, compromised websites can be used to distribute malware or launch phishing campaigns targeting European users, amplifying the threat landscape. The high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability underscores the critical need for timely remediation to protect organizational assets and maintain regulatory compliance under frameworks like GDPR.

Immediate mitigation should focus on updating the Testimonial Slider And Showcase Pro plugin to a patched version once released by RadiusTheme. Until a patch is available, organizations should implement strict input validation and sanitization at the web application level to prevent malicious file path manipulation. Employing a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules specifically designed to detect and block Local File Inclusion attempts can provide an effective protective layer. Restricting PHP include paths via configuration (e.g., open_basedir directive) limits the directories from which files can be included, reducing attack surface. Regularly auditing WordPress plugins for vulnerabilities and minimizing the use of unnecessary or outdated plugins will reduce exposure. Monitoring web server logs for suspicious requests targeting file inclusion parameters can help detect exploitation attempts early. Finally, organizations should ensure robust backup and incident response plans are in place to quickly recover from any successful attacks.