CVE-2025-53449 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the axiomthemes Convex theme up to version 1.11. This vulnerability enables Remote File Inclusion (RFI), where an attacker can manipulate the filename parameter used in PHP's include or require statements to load arbitrary remote files. The root cause lies in insufficient validation or sanitization of user-supplied input controlling the file path, allowing an attacker to specify a remote URL or local file path. Exploiting this vulnerability can lead to remote code execution, enabling attackers to run arbitrary PHP code on the server, which may result in full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or pivoting to internal networks. The vulnerability does not require authentication or user interaction, increasing its risk profile. Although no public exploits are currently known, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities historically makes them attractive targets. The affected product, Convex by axiomthemes, is a PHP-based theme often used in WordPress or similar CMS environments, which are widely deployed in Europe. The lack of a CVSS score suggests this is a newly published vulnerability, but its characteristics warrant a critical severity rating. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. No patches or mitigations are currently linked, emphasizing the need for immediate attention from users of this theme.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-53449 can be severe. Many European companies rely on PHP-based CMS platforms like WordPress, where themes such as Convex are commonly used. Successful exploitation can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access, steal sensitive data, disrupt services, or deploy malware such as ransomware. This threatens confidentiality, integrity, and availability of organizational assets. The vulnerability's ease of exploitation without authentication increases the risk of widespread attacks. Critical infrastructure, e-commerce platforms, government websites, and enterprises using the affected theme are particularly vulnerable. The resulting compromise could lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. Additionally, reputational damage and operational downtime could have significant financial consequences. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the threat landscape may evolve rapidly.

1. Immediately audit all web servers and CMS installations for the presence of the axiomthemes Convex theme, especially versions up to 1.11. 2. Apply patches or updates from the vendor as soon as they become available. 3. In the absence of patches, disable remote file inclusion by setting 'allow_url_include=Off' and 'allow_url_fopen=Off' in the PHP configuration to prevent loading remote files. 4. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any parameters controlling file paths to ensure only allowed local files are included. 5. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious include/require patterns or remote file inclusion attempts. 6. Monitor web server logs for unusual requests that attempt to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 7. Restrict file permissions on the server to limit the impact of potential code execution. 8. Conduct regular security assessments and penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities. 9. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file handling in PHP. 10. Maintain an incident response plan to quickly address any exploitation attempts.