CVE-2025-58946 identifies a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability in the Vocal theme developed by axiomthemes for PHP-based applications, affecting versions up to 1.12. The vulnerability stems from improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP include or require statements, which can be manipulated by an attacker to include remote files. This flaw allows an attacker to execute arbitrary PHP code on the server by injecting malicious remote scripts, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or defacement. The vulnerability is categorized as a Local File Inclusion (LFI) but given the description and typical RFI characteristics, remote inclusion is possible if remote URL wrappers are enabled in PHP configurations. No patches or fixes have been published yet, and no known exploits have been reported in the wild. The vulnerability was reserved in September 2025 and published in December 2025, indicating recent discovery. The absence of a CVSS score necessitates severity assessment based on impact and exploitability factors. Since the vulnerability does not require authentication and can be exploited remotely, it poses a significant risk to web servers running the affected theme. The vulnerability is particularly relevant for websites using the Vocal theme in PHP environments, commonly found in WordPress or similar CMS platforms. Attackers could leverage this to execute arbitrary code, escalate privileges, or pivot within the network.

For European organizations, exploitation of this vulnerability could lead to severe consequences including unauthorized access to sensitive data, defacement of websites, disruption of services, and potential lateral movement within internal networks. Organizations relying on the Vocal theme for customer-facing websites or internal portals are at risk of data breaches and reputational damage. Given the widespread use of PHP and WordPress-based solutions in Europe, especially in sectors like e-commerce, government, and media, the impact could be extensive. Compromise could also facilitate further attacks such as ransomware deployment or espionage. The lack of authentication requirement and remote exploitability increases the threat level, making it easier for attackers to target vulnerable systems without prior access. Additionally, the vulnerability could be exploited to bypass security controls, leading to a broader compromise of IT infrastructure.

Immediate mitigation steps include auditing all instances of the Vocal theme in use and disabling or restricting access to vulnerable endpoints. Developers and administrators should implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters used in include or require statements to prevent injection of malicious file paths. Disabling PHP remote URL wrappers (allow_url_include=Off) is critical to prevent remote file inclusion. Monitoring web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to exploit file inclusion is recommended. Applying any forthcoming patches from axiomthemes promptly is essential. If patches are unavailable, consider temporarily replacing the theme or using web application firewalls (WAFs) with custom rules to block exploitation attempts. Conducting penetration testing focused on file inclusion vulnerabilities can help identify and remediate weaknesses. Organizations should also review PHP configuration settings to harden the environment against similar vulnerabilities.