CVE-2025-53453 identifies a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability in the axiomthemes Hygia WordPress theme, specifically in versions up to and including 1.16. The vulnerability arises from improper 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 is particularly dangerous because it can lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to run arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The flaw stems from insufficient input validation or sanitization of user-supplied data that controls file inclusion paths. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the vulnerability is publicly disclosed and thus poses a significant risk. The affected product, Hygia, is a PHP-based theme used in WordPress environments, which are widely deployed across many organizations. The lack of a CVSS score means severity must be assessed based on the nature of the vulnerability, which typically allows attackers to bypass authentication and execute code remotely without user interaction. This can lead to full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or use of the server as a pivot point for further attacks. The vulnerability was reserved in June 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery and disclosure. No patches or mitigations have been linked yet, increasing the urgency for affected users to implement protective measures.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-53453 can be severe. Organizations using the Hygia theme in their WordPress installations risk unauthorized remote code execution, which can lead to data breaches, website defacement, service disruption, and potential lateral movement within internal networks. Confidential information stored or processed by compromised systems could be exposed or altered, undermining data integrity and privacy compliance obligations such as GDPR. The availability of affected web services may be disrupted, impacting business continuity and reputation. Attackers could also leverage compromised servers to launch further attacks against other targets, amplifying the threat. Given the widespread use of PHP and WordPress in Europe, especially in sectors like e-commerce, media, and public services, the vulnerability poses a significant risk. The absence of known exploits in the wild currently reduces immediate risk but does not eliminate it, as attackers often develop exploits rapidly after disclosure. Organizations with limited patch management capabilities or those using customized or outdated themes are particularly vulnerable.

1. Monitor for official patches or updates from axiomthemes and apply them immediately once available. 2. Until a patch is released, disable remote file inclusion by setting 'allow_url_include = Off' in the PHP configuration (php.ini). 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all user-supplied inputs that influence file inclusion or path parameters. 4. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 5. Conduct thorough code reviews and audits of custom themes and plugins to identify and remediate unsafe include/require usage. 6. Restrict file permissions and isolate web server processes to limit the impact of potential exploitation. 7. Regularly back up website data and configurations to enable rapid recovery in case of compromise. 8. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion and PHP security. 9. Monitor logs for suspicious requests that attempt to exploit file inclusion vectors. 10. Consider migrating to alternative themes or platforms if timely patching is not feasible.