CVE-2025-58949 identifies a Remote File Inclusion (RFI) vulnerability in the axiomthemes Spock PHP theme, specifically versions up to and including 1.17. The vulnerability stems from insufficient validation or improper control over the filename parameter used in PHP's include or require statements. This flaw allows an attacker to manipulate the filename input to include remote files hosted on attacker-controlled servers. When the vulnerable PHP script executes, it fetches and runs malicious code from the remote location, leading to arbitrary code execution on the web server. This can compromise the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of the affected system. The vulnerability is categorized as a PHP Local File Inclusion issue but effectively enables remote file inclusion due to the lack of proper controls. No CVSS score has been assigned yet, and no official patches or known exploits have been reported as of the publication date. The vulnerability was reserved in early September 2025 and published in December 2025. The affected product, Spock by axiomthemes, is a PHP-based theme commonly used in content management systems like WordPress, which are widely deployed in web hosting environments. Attackers exploiting this vulnerability could execute arbitrary PHP code, potentially leading to full system compromise, data theft, or website defacement. The absence of authentication requirements and the ability to trigger the vulnerability remotely increase its risk profile. Since the vulnerability affects a theme component, it may be embedded in numerous websites, especially those not regularly updated or maintained.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-58949 can be significant, particularly for those relying on PHP-based CMS platforms using the axiomthemes Spock theme. Successful exploitation could lead to unauthorized remote code execution, allowing attackers to deploy web shells, steal sensitive data, manipulate website content, or pivot within internal networks. This could result in data breaches, service disruptions, reputational damage, and regulatory non-compliance under GDPR. Public-facing websites and e-commerce platforms are especially vulnerable, as attackers can exploit this flaw to compromise customer data or disrupt business operations. Additionally, the potential for lateral movement within corporate networks could expose internal systems and critical infrastructure. The lack of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive mitigation, but the high severity and ease of exploitation necessitate urgent attention. Organizations with limited patch management processes or those using outdated theme versions are at elevated risk. The vulnerability also poses risks to managed service providers hosting multiple client websites, potentially amplifying the impact across multiple organizations.

1. Immediately audit all web applications and websites using the axiomthemes Spock theme to identify affected versions (<= 1.17). 2. Apply patches or updates from axiomthemes as soon as they are released; monitor vendor channels closely. 3. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on all parameters that influence file inclusion, disallowing remote URLs or unexpected input. 4. Configure PHP settings to disable allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives to prevent remote file inclusion. 5. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block suspicious include/require requests or attempts to inject remote URLs. 6. Conduct regular security scans and penetration tests focusing on file inclusion vulnerabilities. 7. Restrict file system permissions for web server processes to limit the impact of potential code execution. 8. Monitor web server logs for anomalous requests that attempt to exploit file inclusion. 9. Educate development and operations teams about secure coding practices related to file inclusion. 10. Consider isolating vulnerable applications in segmented network zones to reduce lateral movement risk.