CVE-2025-53446 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the axiomthemes Beautique theme up to version 1.5. This vulnerability allows Remote File Inclusion (RFI), where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements to load malicious remote files. This occurs due to insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input that controls the file path, enabling arbitrary file inclusion. The impact of this vulnerability is severe, as it can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary PHP code on the server hosting the vulnerable theme. This can result in full system compromise, data theft, website defacement, or pivoting to other internal systems. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, making it easier to exploit. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities makes them attractive targets for attackers. The vulnerability affects PHP environments where remote file inclusion is enabled and the Beautique theme is used, which is typically on WordPress or similar CMS platforms. No official patch or mitigation link is currently provided, indicating that users must rely on temporary mitigations such as disabling remote file inclusion in PHP configurations or applying manual input validation. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure.

For European organizations, this vulnerability poses a significant risk to websites and web applications using the Beautique theme on PHP-based CMS platforms. Exploitation can lead to unauthorized remote code execution, resulting in data breaches, defacement, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within corporate networks. Confidential information stored or processed by affected web servers could be exposed or altered, impacting data integrity and privacy compliance obligations such as GDPR. The availability of affected services could be compromised, leading to operational downtime and reputational damage. Since the vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, attackers can exploit it remotely and at scale, increasing the risk of widespread attacks. Organizations relying on the affected theme for customer-facing websites or internal portals are particularly vulnerable. The lack of a current patch increases the urgency for interim protective measures. The impact is amplified in sectors with high regulatory scrutiny and critical online presence, such as finance, healthcare, and e-commerce within Europe.

1. Immediately audit all web servers and CMS installations to identify the use of the axiomthemes Beautique theme, especially versions up to 1.5. 2. Disable PHP remote file inclusion by setting 'allow_url_include = Off' in the php.ini configuration to prevent inclusion of remote files. 3. Apply strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file paths in the theme or custom code to ensure only legitimate local files can be included. 4. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities, such as unusual URL parameters or access to unexpected files. 5. If possible, temporarily disable or replace the Beautique theme with a secure alternative until an official patch is released. 6. Keep PHP and CMS platforms updated to the latest versions to reduce the attack surface. 7. Implement Web Application Firewalls (WAF) with rules to detect and block RFI attempts targeting include/require parameters. 8. Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 9. Stay informed on vendor advisories and apply patches promptly once available. 10. Conduct security awareness training for developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion.