CVE-2025-49361 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the AncoraThemes Mamita WordPress theme versions up to 1.0.9. The vulnerability allows Remote File Inclusion (RFI), a critical flaw where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in PHP include or require functions to load arbitrary files. This can lead to execution of malicious code on the server, potentially compromising the entire web application and underlying system. The issue stems from insufficient validation or sanitization of user-controlled input that determines which files are included. While the description mentions PHP Local File Inclusion, the nature of the flaw and its classification as RFI implies that remote files can also be included if the server configuration permits. Exploiting this vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known at this time. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. AncoraThemes Mamita is a WordPress theme, and such themes are widely used in websites, making this vulnerability relevant to many web-facing applications. The absence of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be publicly available, emphasizing the need for immediate attention once patches are released.

The impact of CVE-2025-49361 on European organizations can be severe. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely, potentially leading to full website compromise, data theft, defacement, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks. This can affect confidentiality, integrity, and availability of web services. Organizations relying on the Mamita theme for their WordPress sites, especially those handling sensitive customer data or providing critical services, face risks of data breaches and reputational damage. The vulnerability could also facilitate malware distribution or ransomware deployment via compromised websites. Given the widespread use of WordPress in Europe, particularly in small and medium enterprises, media, and e-commerce sectors, the threat surface is significant. Additionally, the lack of authentication requirement and ease of exploitation increase the likelihood of automated scanning and exploitation attempts, potentially impacting a broad range of targets across Europe.

To mitigate CVE-2025-49361, organizations should: 1) Monitor AncoraThemes announcements and apply security patches immediately once available. 2) Temporarily disable or replace the Mamita theme if patching is not yet possible. 3) Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file inclusion in custom code or theme modifications. 4) Configure PHP settings to disable remote file inclusion (e.g., setting 'allow_url_include' to 'Off') to reduce risk. 5) Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts and unusual URL parameters. 6) Conduct regular security scans and penetration tests focusing on file inclusion vulnerabilities. 7) Restrict file permissions and isolate web application environments to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 8) Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion. These steps go beyond generic advice by focusing on theme-specific actions, PHP configuration hardening, and proactive detection.