CVE-2025-49943 is a vulnerability classified as Remote File Inclusion (RFI) in the AncoraThemes Femme WordPress theme, affecting versions up to and including 1.3.11. The root cause is improper validation and control of the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, which allows an attacker to specify a remote file to be included and executed by the server. This type of vulnerability enables attackers to execute arbitrary PHP code remotely, potentially leading to full site takeover, data theft, defacement, or pivoting to internal networks. The vulnerability does not require authentication, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities makes them attractive targets for attackers. The Femme theme is used primarily in WordPress environments, which are widely deployed globally, including Europe. The lack of a CVSS score indicates that the vulnerability is newly published and not yet fully assessed, but the technical characteristics suggest a serious threat. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. No official patches or updates are linked yet, so users must monitor vendor advisories closely. The vulnerability's exploitation requires the attacker to control or influence the input parameter used in the include/require statement, which may be possible via URL parameters or other user inputs depending on the theme's implementation.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-49943 can be significant, especially for those relying on WordPress sites using the AncoraThemes Femme theme. Successful exploitation can lead to arbitrary code execution on web servers, resulting in complete site compromise, data breaches, defacement, or use of the compromised server as a pivot point for further attacks within the network. This can disrupt business operations, damage reputation, and lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. E-commerce, media, and public sector websites are particularly at risk due to their high visibility and data sensitivity. The vulnerability's remote exploitation capability without authentication increases the attack surface and urgency for mitigation. Additionally, compromised sites can be used to distribute malware or conduct phishing campaigns targeting European users. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the risk remains high due to the ease of exploitation inherent in RFI vulnerabilities.

1. Immediately audit all WordPress installations for the presence of the AncoraThemes Femme theme and identify versions up to 1.3.11. 2. Monitor AncoraThemes official channels for patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-49943 and apply them promptly once available. 3. If no official patch exists, implement manual code review and remediation by sanitizing and validating all inputs controlling include/require statements to prevent remote file paths. 4. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious file inclusion attempts and malicious payloads targeting PHP include parameters. 5. Restrict PHP configuration settings such as disabling allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen to prevent remote file inclusion. 6. Conduct regular security scans and penetration tests focusing on file inclusion vulnerabilities. 7. Educate developers and administrators on secure coding practices to avoid unsafe dynamic file inclusion. 8. Maintain regular backups and incident response plans to recover quickly in case of compromise. 9. Limit user input exposure by minimizing unnecessary URL parameters or inputs that influence file inclusion logic. 10. Monitor logs for unusual requests or errors related to file inclusion attempts.