CVE-2025-49942 is a Local File Inclusion (LFI) vulnerability found in the AncoraThemes Gardis WordPress theme, specifically in versions up to and including 1.2.13. The vulnerability arises from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements. This lack of proper validation allows an attacker to manipulate the input to include arbitrary files from the server's filesystem. Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to disclosure of sensitive files such as configuration files, password files, or other critical data stored on the server. In some cases, LFI can be chained with other vulnerabilities to achieve remote code execution, escalating the attacker's control over the affected system. The vulnerability does not require authentication, making it accessible to unauthenticated remote attackers. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of the vulnerability and the widespread use of WordPress themes make it a significant risk. The absence of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and not yet fully assessed, but the technical characteristics suggest a high severity. The vulnerability affects the Gardis theme, which is used by websites built on WordPress, a popular content management system globally and in Europe. The flaw is due to insufficient input sanitization or validation in the theme's PHP code responsible for including files, a common security weakness in web applications. Without a patch link provided, mitigation relies on vendor updates or manual code review and hardening.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to the confidentiality and integrity of web servers running the AncoraThemes Gardis theme. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data such as credentials, internal configuration files, or customer information. This can result in data breaches, regulatory non-compliance (e.g., GDPR violations), reputational damage, and potential financial losses. Additionally, attackers might leverage LFI to execute arbitrary code or pivot within the network, compromising other systems. Organizations with public-facing WordPress sites using this theme are particularly vulnerable, as the attack does not require authentication or user interaction. The impact extends to sectors with high web presence such as e-commerce, government portals, and media companies. Given the lack of known exploits, the immediate risk may be moderate, but the potential for rapid exploitation once proof-of-concept code emerges is high. The vulnerability also increases the attack surface for advanced persistent threats targeting European infrastructure.

Organizations should immediately inventory their WordPress installations to identify the use of the AncoraThemes Gardis theme, particularly versions up to 1.2.13. Until an official patch is released, manual mitigation steps include reviewing and sanitizing all inputs that control file inclusion in the theme's PHP files, ensuring strict validation against a whitelist of allowed filenames. Employing Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts can provide interim protection. Regularly monitor web server logs for anomalous requests attempting to exploit file inclusion. Restrict file permissions on the server to limit access to sensitive files and directories. Organizations should subscribe to vendor advisories and apply patches promptly once available. Additionally, conducting security audits and penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities can help identify and remediate similar issues. Backup critical data and have incident response plans ready in case of exploitation. Finally, consider isolating WordPress instances in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromised.