CVE-2025-49886 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-98, which pertains to improper control of filenames used in include or require statements within PHP applications. Specifically, this vulnerability affects the WebGeniusLab Zikzag Core product, versions up to and including 1.4.5. The flaw allows for PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI), which means an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter in such a way that the application includes unintended local files. This can lead to arbitrary code execution, disclosure of sensitive information, and full compromise of the affected system. The vulnerability arises because the application does not properly validate or sanitize user-supplied input used in PHP include/require statements, enabling an attacker to traverse directories or specify malicious files. The CVSS v3.1 base score is 8.1, indicating a high severity with network attack vector, high attack complexity, no privileges required, no user interaction, and impacts on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the nature of this vulnerability makes it a critical risk if weaponized. The absence of available patches at the time of publication increases the urgency for mitigation and monitoring. Organizations using Zikzag Core should consider this vulnerability a significant threat to their web application security posture.

For European organizations utilizing WebGeniusLab Zikzag Core, this vulnerability poses a substantial risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including customer information, intellectual property, or internal configuration files. Integrity of web applications and backend systems could be compromised, allowing attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to full system takeover. Availability could also be affected if attackers disrupt services or deploy ransomware. Given the network attack vector and no requirement for authentication or user interaction, attackers can remotely exploit this vulnerability with relative ease, increasing the risk of widespread compromise. The impact is particularly critical for sectors with stringent data protection requirements under GDPR, such as finance, healthcare, and government institutions. A successful attack could result in regulatory penalties, reputational damage, and operational disruptions.

1. Immediate mitigation should include disabling or restricting the use of dynamic include/require statements that accept user input within Zikzag Core until a vendor patch is available. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that influence file inclusion, ensuring only whitelisted filenames or paths are accepted. 3. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to detect and block attempts at directory traversal or suspicious file inclusion patterns targeting Zikzag Core endpoints. 4. Conduct thorough code audits to identify and remediate any other instances of unsafe file inclusion practices. 5. Monitor application logs and network traffic for unusual access patterns or error messages indicative of exploitation attempts. 6. Plan and prioritize upgrading to a patched version once released by WebGeniusLab. 7. Isolate affected web servers in network segments with limited access to critical backend systems to reduce lateral movement risk. 8. Educate development and security teams about secure coding practices related to file inclusion to prevent recurrence.