CVE-2025-58225 is a vulnerability classified as Improper Control of Filename for Include/Require Statement in PHP programs, specifically affecting the Paragon theme developed by axiomthemes. This vulnerability allows Remote File Inclusion (RFI), a critical security flaw where an attacker can manipulate the input to PHP's include or require functions to load and execute arbitrary files, potentially from remote servers. The vulnerability exists in Paragon versions up to and including 1.1, with no fixed version currently indicated. The root cause is insufficient validation or sanitization of the filename parameter used in include/require statements, which enables attackers to specify malicious files. Exploiting this vulnerability could allow an attacker to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server, leading to full system compromise, data leakage, defacement, or pivoting within the internal network. Although no public exploits have been reported yet, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities makes them highly attractive targets for attackers. The vulnerability was reserved in August 2025 and published in December 2025, but no CVSS score has been assigned yet. The absence of patches or mitigations from the vendor increases the urgency for organizations to implement defensive measures. This vulnerability is particularly relevant for websites and applications running PHP with the Paragon theme, commonly used in content management systems like WordPress. Attackers typically exploit such vulnerabilities by sending crafted HTTP requests that manipulate the vulnerable parameter to include malicious payloads hosted remotely or locally. This can lead to remote code execution without requiring authentication or user interaction, making it a severe threat.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-58225 can be significant, especially for those relying on PHP-based web applications using the Paragon theme. Successful exploitation can result in remote code execution, allowing attackers to gain unauthorized access to sensitive data, modify or delete content, disrupt services, or use compromised servers as a foothold for further attacks within the network. This can lead to data breaches involving personal data protected under GDPR, resulting in legal and financial penalties. Additionally, compromised web servers can be used to distribute malware or launch attacks against other targets, damaging organizational reputation. The impact is heightened for organizations with public-facing websites, such as e-commerce platforms, government portals, and media outlets, which are common in Europe. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the vulnerability's nature means it could be rapidly weaponized. The potential for widespread impact is also tied to the popularity of PHP and WordPress themes in Europe, where many small and medium enterprises use such technologies for their web presence.

1. Immediately inventory all web applications and websites to identify any use of the axiomthemes Paragon theme, particularly versions up to 1.1. 2. Monitor vendor communications and security advisories for patches or updates addressing CVE-2025-58225 and apply them as soon as they become available. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that influence file inclusion, ensuring only allowed filenames or paths are accepted. 4. Configure PHP settings to disable allow_url_include and restrict include_path to trusted directories to prevent remote file inclusion. 5. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules designed to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 6. Conduct regular code reviews and security testing focusing on file inclusion logic within PHP applications. 7. Isolate web servers and limit permissions to minimize the impact of potential exploitation. 8. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion and parameter handling. 9. Monitor logs for suspicious requests that attempt to manipulate include/require parameters. 10. Consider using runtime application self-protection (RASP) solutions to detect and block exploitation attempts in real time.