CVE-2025-49371 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the AncoraThemes Strux product up to version 1.9. This vulnerability allows Remote File Inclusion (RFI), where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements to load and execute arbitrary remote files. The root cause is insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input that controls the file path, enabling attackers to specify external URLs or local files. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary PHP code on the server, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or pivoting within the network. Although no public exploits are currently known, the vulnerability is critical due to the widespread use of PHP and the AncoraThemes Strux theme in web environments. The vulnerability affects websites running the Strux theme, which is popular among WordPress users and other PHP-based CMS platforms. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and pending detailed scoring, but the technical nature and impact suggest a high severity. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No patches or mitigations are currently linked, emphasizing the need for immediate attention from users of the affected product.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49371 can be severe. Many European businesses rely on PHP-based content management systems and themes like AncoraThemes Strux for their web presence. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, resulting in data breaches, website defacement, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. This can damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations due to data exposure), and cause financial losses. The vulnerability could also be leveraged by threat actors to deploy malware or ransomware, further escalating the impact. Given the interconnected nature of European digital infrastructure, a successful attack on one organization could have cascading effects on partners and customers. Additionally, the lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the risk remains high if attackers develop and deploy exploit code.

1. Monitor AncoraThemes and official sources for patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-49371 and apply them immediately upon release. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that control file inclusion paths to prevent injection of malicious filenames or URLs. 3. Disable allow_url_include in PHP configurations to prevent remote file inclusion via URL schemes. 4. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block suspicious include/require requests or unusual URL parameters. 5. Conduct regular code audits and security reviews of custom themes and plugins to identify and remediate insecure coding practices. 6. Restrict file permissions and isolate web server processes to limit the impact of potential code execution. 7. Monitor server and application logs for anomalies indicative of exploitation attempts, such as unusual include statements or external requests. 8. Educate developers and administrators on secure coding practices related to file inclusion and PHP security. 9. Consider using runtime application self-protection (RASP) tools to detect and block exploitation attempts in real time. 10. Backup website data regularly and ensure recovery procedures are tested to minimize downtime in case of compromise.