CVE-2025-53248 is a high-severity vulnerability classified under CWE-98, which pertains to improper control of filenames used in include or require statements within PHP programs. Specifically, this vulnerability affects the Unfoldwp Magazine product, versions up to 1.2.2. The flaw allows for PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI), where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in include or require statements to load arbitrary files from the local filesystem. This can lead to the execution of malicious code, disclosure of sensitive information, or complete compromise of the affected web application. The vulnerability is remotely exploitable over the network without requiring authentication or user interaction, but the attack complexity is high, indicating some conditions or constraints must be met for successful exploitation. The CVSS 3.1 base score is 8.1, reflecting high impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the potential for severe damage exists due to the nature of file inclusion vulnerabilities, which can lead to remote code execution or data leakage. The vulnerability arises from insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input used in PHP include/require statements, allowing attackers to traverse directories or specify unintended files. This type of vulnerability is critical in PHP-based content management systems or plugins, as it undermines the trust boundary between user input and server-side code execution.

For European organizations using the Unfoldwp Magazine plugin or product, this vulnerability poses a significant risk. Exploitation could lead to unauthorized disclosure of sensitive data, including configuration files, credentials, or user data, violating GDPR and other data protection regulations. Integrity of website content and backend systems could be compromised, enabling attackers to inject malicious scripts or backdoors, potentially leading to website defacement, phishing campaigns, or lateral movement within corporate networks. Availability could also be impacted if attackers execute denial-of-service attacks or disrupt normal operations. Given the high CVSS score and the nature of the vulnerability, organizations relying on this software for publishing or content management face operational and reputational risks. Additionally, the lack of available patches increases exposure time, necessitating immediate mitigation. The vulnerability's remote exploitability without authentication makes it attractive for opportunistic attackers and advanced persistent threat actors targeting European media, publishing, and related sectors.

1. Immediate mitigation should include disabling or restricting the vulnerable include/require functionality if possible, or removing the Unfoldwp Magazine plugin until a patch is available. 2. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters used in file inclusion functions to prevent directory traversal or arbitrary file access. 3. Employ web application firewalls (WAFs) with rules specifically designed to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities, including suspicious URL patterns or payloads. 4. Conduct thorough code reviews and security audits of all PHP code handling file includes to identify and remediate similar issues. 5. Monitor web server logs for unusual access patterns or error messages indicative of attempted exploitation. 6. Isolate the affected web applications in segmented network zones to limit potential lateral movement. 7. Prepare incident response plans to quickly address any exploitation attempts. 8. Stay alert for official patches or updates from Unfoldwp and apply them promptly once released. 9. Consider deploying runtime application self-protection (RASP) solutions that can detect and block malicious file inclusion attempts in real time.