CVE-2025-58940 is a Remote File Inclusion vulnerability found in the Basil theme developed by axiomthemes, specifically affecting versions up to 1.3.12. The vulnerability stems from improper validation and control of filenames used in PHP include or require statements, which are critical for dynamically loading code or content. An attacker can exploit this flaw by manipulating the filename parameter to include malicious remote or local files, resulting in arbitrary code execution on the server. This type of vulnerability is particularly dangerous because it can lead to full system compromise, data leakage, or defacement of websites. The vulnerability is categorized as a PHP Local File Inclusion (LFI) but can be extended to Remote File Inclusion (RFI) depending on server configuration. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no public exploits are known, but the vulnerability is published and should be treated as critical. The affected product, Basil, is a PHP theme likely used in WordPress or similar CMS environments, which are common in many European organizations. The lack of a patch link indicates that a fix may not yet be available, increasing the urgency for mitigation. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability do not require authentication, and exploitation does not necessarily require user interaction, increasing the risk profile.

For European organizations, exploitation of CVE-2025-58940 could lead to severe consequences including unauthorized remote code execution, data theft, website defacement, and potential pivoting within internal networks. Confidentiality is at risk as attackers may access sensitive files or credentials stored on the server. Integrity is compromised through the potential modification of website content or backend code. Availability may be impacted if attackers deploy ransomware or disrupt services. Organizations relying on the Basil theme for public-facing websites or internal portals could face reputational damage and regulatory penalties under GDPR if personal data is exposed. The threat is particularly relevant for sectors with high web presence such as e-commerce, government, and media in Europe. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the ease of exploitation and lack of authentication requirements make this a high-risk vulnerability.

1. Immediately audit all web servers and applications using the Basil theme version 1.3.12 or earlier and identify vulnerable instances. 2. Apply patches or updates from axiomthemes as soon as they become available; if no official patch exists, consider disabling the vulnerable include/require functionality or replacing the theme. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters used in include/require statements to prevent injection of malicious file paths. 4. Deploy a Web Application Firewall (WAF) with rules to detect and block attempts to exploit file inclusion vulnerabilities. 5. Restrict PHP configuration settings such as 'allow_url_include' to 'Off' to prevent remote file inclusion. 6. Conduct regular code reviews and penetration testing focused on file inclusion and injection vulnerabilities. 7. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to manipulate include parameters. 8. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to dynamic file inclusion. 9. Consider isolating vulnerable applications in segmented network zones to limit lateral movement if compromised.