CVE-2025-60052 is a vulnerability classified as Remote File Inclusion (RFI) in the AncoraThemes W&D product, affecting versions up to and including 1.0. The root cause is improper control over 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 can lead to remote code execution, enabling attackers to run arbitrary PHP code on the affected server. The vulnerability arises because the application fails to properly validate or sanitize user input that controls the file path in include/require statements. Although the CVSS score is not provided, the nature of RFI vulnerabilities typically allows unauthenticated attackers to exploit the flaw remotely, without user interaction. This can result in full system compromise, data theft, defacement, or pivoting to internal networks. No public exploits are currently known, but the vulnerability is published and should be considered exploitable. AncoraThemes W&D is a WordPress theme or plugin product, which is commonly used in content management systems. The vulnerability affects the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of web servers running this software. The lack of patch links suggests that a fix may not yet be available, increasing urgency for mitigation. Organizations using this theme should audit their installations and apply any forthcoming patches or implement workarounds. Monitoring web server logs for suspicious include attempts and restricting PHP configurations can reduce risk.

For European organizations, the impact of CVE-2025-60052 can be significant, especially for those relying on WordPress sites using AncoraThemes W&D. Successful exploitation could lead to remote code execution, allowing attackers to steal sensitive data, deface websites, deploy malware, or use compromised servers as a foothold for further attacks. This could damage brand reputation, lead to regulatory penalties under GDPR due to data breaches, and disrupt business operations. Public-facing web servers are particularly vulnerable, and sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government could face heightened risks due to the sensitivity of their data. Additionally, the ability to execute arbitrary code remotely without authentication increases the likelihood of automated exploitation attempts. The absence of known exploits currently provides a window for proactive defense, but the threat remains critical given the potential consequences. Organizations with limited security monitoring or patch management capabilities are at higher risk of compromise.

1. Immediately audit all WordPress installations to identify the presence of AncoraThemes W&D version 1.0 or earlier. 2. Apply any official patches or updates from AncoraThemes as soon as they become available. 3. If patches are not yet available, implement temporary mitigations such as disabling vulnerable functionality or restricting access to affected PHP files via web server configuration (e.g., .htaccess rules). 4. Harden PHP configurations by disabling allow_url_include and allow_url_fopen directives to prevent remote file inclusion. 5. Implement strict input validation and sanitization on any user-controllable parameters that influence file inclusion. 6. Monitor web server logs for suspicious requests attempting to include remote files or unusual URL parameters. 7. Employ Web Application Firewalls (WAFs) with rules to detect and block RFI attempts targeting AncoraThemes W&D. 8. Restrict file system permissions to limit the ability of the web server to write or execute unauthorized files. 9. Educate developers and administrators about secure coding practices related to file inclusion. 10. Prepare incident response plans to quickly contain and remediate any exploitation attempts.