CVE-2025-47636 is a high-severity path traversal vulnerability (CWE-35) found in the 'List category posts' product developed by Fernando Briano. This vulnerability allows an attacker to perform PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) by exploiting improper validation of file path inputs. Specifically, the flaw enables an attacker to manipulate file path parameters to traverse directories and include arbitrary files from the local filesystem. This can lead to the disclosure of sensitive information, execution of arbitrary PHP code, and potentially full system compromise. The affected versions include all versions up to 0.90.3, with no specific unaffected versions indicated. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 7.5, reflecting a high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. The attack vector is network-based (AV:N), requiring low privileges (PR:L) but no user interaction (UI:N), and the attack complexity is high (AC:H), indicating some difficulty in exploitation but still feasible. No known exploits are currently reported in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. The vulnerability's presence in a PHP-based product that handles category posts suggests it is likely used in web applications, making it a critical concern for web servers running this software. The lack of patches and the high severity score indicate that organizations using this product should prioritize mitigation efforts promptly.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-47636 can be significant, especially for those relying on the 'List category posts' product in their web infrastructure. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files, including configuration files, credentials, or other critical data, severely compromising confidentiality. Furthermore, the ability to include and execute arbitrary PHP files could allow attackers to escalate privileges, modify data, or disrupt service availability, impacting integrity and availability. This could result in data breaches, service outages, reputational damage, and regulatory non-compliance, particularly under GDPR requirements. Organizations in sectors such as finance, healthcare, government, and critical infrastructure are at heightened risk due to the sensitivity of their data and the potential for cascading effects on dependent systems. The network-based attack vector means that remote attackers can attempt exploitation without physical access, increasing the threat surface. The high attack complexity somewhat limits mass exploitation but does not eliminate targeted attacks against vulnerable systems.

Given the absence of official patches, European organizations should implement immediate compensating controls. First, conduct an inventory to identify all instances of the 'List category posts' product and verify their versions. Restrict access to the affected web application components through network segmentation and firewall rules to limit exposure to trusted users or IP ranges. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block path traversal patterns and suspicious file inclusion attempts. Review and harden PHP configurations, disabling functions that facilitate file inclusion if not required (e.g., allow_url_include). Implement strict input validation and sanitization at the application level to prevent malicious path inputs. Monitor logs for unusual file access patterns or errors indicative of exploitation attempts. Prepare for rapid patch deployment once official fixes become available by establishing a vulnerability management process. Additionally, conduct security awareness training for developers and administrators on secure coding practices related to file handling. Finally, consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) tools to detect and block exploitation attempts in real time.