CVE-2025-49359 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the AncoraThemes ShieldGroup WordPress plugin, specifically in versions up to 2.13. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the input that determines which file is included and executed by the PHP interpreter. By exploiting this, an attacker can include arbitrary files from the local filesystem, potentially leading to disclosure of sensitive information such as configuration files, password files, or other critical data stored on the server. In some cases, this can also lead to remote code execution if the attacker can upload malicious files or leverage other vulnerabilities. The vulnerability is classified as a PHP Remote File Inclusion type but is confirmed as Local File Inclusion in this case, meaning the attacker can only include files present on the server. The plugin ShieldGroup is a security or utility plugin developed by AncoraThemes, commonly used in WordPress environments. No public exploits or patches are currently available, and the vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025. The absence of a CVSS score requires an independent severity assessment. The vulnerability's exploitation complexity depends on whether the vulnerable parameter is exposed to unauthenticated users or requires authentication. The impact includes potential confidentiality breaches, integrity compromise, and availability disruption if the attacker executes malicious code or disrupts service. This vulnerability is particularly concerning for websites handling sensitive user data or critical business functions.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49359 can be significant. Organizations using WordPress sites with the AncoraThemes ShieldGroup plugin are at risk of unauthorized disclosure of sensitive files, including credentials, configuration files, or personal data protected under GDPR. This can lead to data breaches, regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and loss of customer trust. Additionally, if attackers leverage this vulnerability to execute arbitrary code, they could gain persistent access to the web server, pivot to internal networks, or deploy ransomware or other malware. The disruption of web services can affect business continuity and customer-facing operations. Given the widespread use of WordPress in Europe and the popularity of AncoraThemes plugins, the vulnerability poses a tangible threat to SMEs and large enterprises alike. Organizations in regulated sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government are particularly vulnerable due to the sensitivity of their data and the potential regulatory consequences of a breach.

To mitigate CVE-2025-49359, organizations should: 1) Monitor AncoraThemes and WordPress plugin repositories for official patches and apply updates to ShieldGroup immediately upon release. 2) Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file inclusion to prevent manipulation. 3) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 4) Restrict file permissions on the web server to limit access to sensitive files and directories, minimizing the impact of any successful inclusion. 5) Conduct regular security audits and code reviews of custom plugins or themes that may interact with ShieldGroup. 6) Use security plugins that can detect anomalous file access patterns or unauthorized changes. 7) Limit administrative access to the WordPress backend and enforce strong authentication mechanisms to reduce the risk of exploitation requiring authentication. 8) Maintain comprehensive backups and incident response plans to quickly recover from potential compromises. These measures, combined, reduce the attack surface and improve detection and response capabilities.