CVE-2025-49364 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP, commonly known as a Local File Inclusion (LFI) flaw, found in the AncoraThemes Ludos Paradise WordPress theme versions up to 2.1.3. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input that controls the filename parameter in PHP include or require statements. This allows an attacker to manipulate the input to include arbitrary local files from the server's filesystem. Potential consequences include disclosure of sensitive files such as configuration files, password files, or application source code, which can lead to further attacks like remote code execution if combined with other vulnerabilities or misconfigurations. The 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. However, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and should be treated with urgency. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be available, emphasizing the need for immediate mitigation steps. The vulnerability affects websites using the Ludos Paradise theme, which is popular in gaming or entertainment niches, potentially exposing a wide range of WordPress sites to attack.

For European organizations, the impact of this LFI vulnerability can be severe. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including credentials, internal configuration files, or proprietary code, undermining confidentiality. Attackers may leverage disclosed information to escalate privileges or execute arbitrary code, compromising integrity and availability of affected websites. This can result in website defacement, data breaches, or service disruptions, damaging organizational reputation and causing financial losses. Organizations in sectors such as gaming, entertainment, and digital media, which are more likely to use AncoraThemes products, face heightened risk. Additionally, compromised websites can be used as a pivot point for further attacks within corporate networks or to distribute malware to European users. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the public disclosure increases the likelihood of future exploitation attempts.

Organizations should immediately inventory their WordPress installations to identify any running the Ludos Paradise theme up to version 2.1.3. If an update or patch is available from AncoraThemes, it should be applied without delay. In the absence of an official patch, temporary mitigations include disabling or restricting the vulnerable include/require functionality via code review or custom patches. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file inclusion. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block LFI attack patterns, such as suspicious file path traversal sequences. Restrict file system permissions to limit access to sensitive files and directories, minimizing the impact of potential inclusion. Monitor web server logs for anomalous requests indicative of LFI attempts. Conduct regular security audits and penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities. Finally, consider isolating vulnerable sites in segmented network zones to reduce lateral movement risk.